When asked what their ideal pet would be, pet rats to buy some might answer with a dog or a cat. With a growing fanbase, pet rats are captivating owners with their unique personalities. Domesticated rats are entirely different from their reputation, proving to be lovable, intelligent, and relatively effortless animals that only serve to create happiness for their owners.
For owners that lack space or are simply on the go, they are a perfect substitute to traditional pets given their extremely social, clean, and good bonding attributes.
The purpose of this article is to serve as a starting point for prospective owners considering these lovely pets. What makes rats such unique pets will be explored, and the essentials that need to be known before owning one will be highlighted.
In addition to socialization, the best and most accessible sources of pet rats will be outlined along with the other pet ownership essential like initial and ongoing expenses, housing, proper nutrition, and daily care.
From the information outlined, it is apparent why many owners are attracted to these interactive, adorable, and relatively inexpensive pets.
Why CHOOSE to pet rats
Rats are typically associated with negativity, but there is a difference between a domestic rat and a rat in the wild. They have been selectively bred for their temperament and have become one of the most fulfilling small pets available. If you want a low maintenance and inexpensive, engaging pet, here are a reasons why a rat may be the best suitable pet for you.
ā Respond to Instructions
Rats intelligent. A common comparison to determine their intelligence is their ability learn and understand different commands. They are able to respond to their name and perform other tricks like maneuver through obstacle courses. This attribute makes the type of pet one will never be bored with and provides a great bond.
š Social and Affectionate
New owners are mostly taken by suprise by how loving these pets can be. Humans are easily recognized, and less tends to be shy with great joy of finding a shoulder to unwind on, followed by a desire to be hugged. Genuine love is demonstrated through grooming and “boggling” as well as purrs when the pet parent is resting.
š” Perfect for Small Homes, Easy to Maintain
A rat smiles happily when it has a place to stay. In fact, a cage can be fitted nicely in an apartment or inside a small area. They do not need a yard or a big house to be happy. If they are provided with enough space to play in their enclosures and in safe supervised time let loose, they can survive in any environment. They need minimal supervision.
š° Inexpensive and Easy to Maintain
Out of all the pets, rats are the cheapest when it comes to setup. They cage and bedding are the most expensive. It can be seen as rather shocking that in this day and age, they are one of the most affordable pets you can own. If you want an easy to maintain pet, rats are for you. With a small rat, the food bill will come to a rather minimal amount, and that helps as well.
š§¼ Fresh and clean with no nasty odors when well taken care off.
Like any pet, rats do not enjoy a dirty cage, and they can also be considered superb groomers. In fact, they do what most of their day. they tend to clean roma about as cats do. It is rather incredible that with everything considered, their enclosure can remain even more stink free than most animals.
Where to purchase pet rats.
The very first step to having a wonderful experience as a pet owner is limited to acquiring rats that are healthy and well-socialized. There are many places pet rats can be purchased with each having its own advantages and disadvantages.
a. Local Pet Stores.
Most pet stores are the common places where prospective owners first visit.
Pros: They are within reach of nearly all prospective pet owners and in many cases, they can walk away with their new pets the very same day. Chains such as Petco and PetSmart are known to sell rats.
Cons: The biggest concern is the rats’ origins. They are likely to be the result of mass breeding operations where proper socialization and health care are not provided. As a result, they are likely to be very anxious, unhealthy, or both.
b. Online Breeders & Acquirements.
The best source for pet rats is a well regarded breeder. This is the case because they are known as āratteries” and the focus of such individuals is primarily on the health, behavior, and longevity of the rats that they breed.
How to verify a reputable breeder: Find breeders who practice ethical breeding and are willing to tell you about their business operations and breeding practices. They need to understand animal husbandry and be willing to show the animal quarters, meet the parent rats, and have the pedigree charts.
Most have a web and social media presence. A good indicator for animal welfare is asking potential owners several questions to know what sort of home the animal is going to be offered. One should not consider backyard breeders who sell babies without caring for the animal welfare.
Examples:An illustrative example is finding a local rattery referred to the American Fancy Rat and Mouse Association (AFRMA) or through local breeder-focused web pages
c. Animal Shelters & Rescue Centers
Adoption goes beyond the provision of a home. It involves making a commitment to caring for the animal for the rest of its life.
Rescue and rehabilitation of an animal that has suffered or is in danger is termed ethical pet guardianship. It is the act of saving an animal from a life of bondage, neglect, abuse, or euthanasia. Countless rats end up in shelters for reasons beyond their control.
When animal adoption saves a life, it brings joy as it goes a long way in minimizing the burden of stray animals while also making a significant contribution to the welfare of the community. The socialized rats that have been rescued often show a tremendous capacity to love and gratitude toward their humans.
Look for nearby humane societies or SPCA, webpages of small critters rescues, and Petfinder that allows a user to locate rats for adoption.
D. Online Communities & Forums
Incorporating the Community of Rat Lovers
Rats are widely accepted and loved.
When It Comes to Rats Is It Private Facebook Groups or Reddit Pages that Offer You Better Access and Networking.
Cost of Maintenance for Pet Rats
Rats are particularly easy to take care and maintain and therefore economical.
- Individual Estimates: Pricing for individual rats can go anywhere from $5 to $40 and varies greatly from one place to another. Developmental charges are common and may seem exorbitant, however fancy breeds are usually priced higher. It is essential to purchase more than one, rats are extremely gregarious and sociable creatures.
- Setup for First Time Owners: The most expensive investment for anyone setting up and owning a pet for the first time is the cage, which goes upto $ 70.
- Monthly expenses: You should budget 30-60 dollars a month for food, bedding, and some new toys for your pets. Other than vet bills, your other expenses should be very predictable. Anticipate and save for potential health care issues.
Setting a Safe and Comfortable Home
As for your rats, a bright, safe and stimulating home would contribute significantly to their happiness and general wellbeing.
- Cage Type and Size: A wire cage with multiple climbing and exploring levels is perfect for your rat. There’s plenty of floor space to climb, explore, and move around. Each rat should be provided at least 2 cubic feet of space. A Critter Nation brand cage is perfect. You will be very happy with it.
- Enrichment: Rotating toys, tunnels, and other various activities help to keep your rat busy and entertained. Providing your rat with different, safe materials allows them to build their own homes and exercise their creative skills.
- Bedding and Cleaning: Use a bedding that has low dust, such as aspen shavings, recycled paper pellets, and fleece liners. Do not use cedar and pine shavings as they may cause respiratory issues due to the oils. Exercise daily spot checks and do a full clean at least weekly with a safe disinfectant made for pets.
- Daily Essentials: Rats should primarily consume a lab block or pellet made for rats. This should be daily supplemented with tiny amounts of fresh vegetables and fruits. Good choices are peas, carrots, broccoli, along with tiny amounts of apples (be sure there are no seeds) and bananas. Small protein snacks can be given occasionally, such as a small piece of cooked chicken or an egg.
Caring for Your Pet Rat
Your rats will be able to achieve the full length of their life, and be happy and healthy, with proper care. Use the following tips to strengthen your confidence while taking care of your pet rat.
- Handling and Bonding: Do not forget to allocate time to be spent with your rats every single day. Approach them first with a hand to give them a treat, while also gently scooping them for some of the time, and letting them get used to your scent. Pet rats are smart and will learn to associate you with good vibes and will enjoy the leisure time that you provide them.
- Keeping Them Social: Unlike many animals, rats are more social in nature, even bonding with humans given the chance. Loneliness and lack of companionship can lead to aberrant behaviors. Always keep rats in the same sex pairs or small groups.
- Health Check-Ups: Take note of any warning signs with your rat. For instance, a clean coat and active behavior can indicate a healthy rat, whereas sneezing or a huffing sound suggests possible Rabbit Asthma. Vet services for exotic pets are in high demand, so seek out one before you need it.
- Daily Routines and Playtime: Supervised cage free playtime of at least one hour daily is a minimum requirement in a designated rat-proof area. This is an excellent opportunity for bonding, training, and exercise.
Things to Know Before Buying
- Lifespan: As a pet rat owner, it is privy that the lifespan of a pet rat is 2-3 years. This can be difficult for owners, especially children. It’s important to be prepared for this emotional aspect of ownership.
- Need for Companionship: As mentioned previously, you cannot have just one rat. Be prepared to house, feed, and care for at least two.
- Caretaking and Cleaning ;Taking care of a pet rat is undoubtably easier than, for example, taking care of a dog, but still, they require dedication and daily cleaning. Basically, whether or not the rat is healthy and living life comfortably all comes down to how devoted the owner is.
Why You Should Consider Getting a Rat as Your Next Pet
Rats are, without a question, fascinating and superb pets for the right owner. They certainly are not the first pet that comes to mind, but they are incredibly smart, loving, and relatively easy to care for, unlike many other pets.
- Rats as Pets: Why You should Consider Getting a Rat as Your Next Pet
- A bond with a pet rat is unlike any other. They give you pure and loving companionship while also being easy to care for and not overly demanding.
- Absolutely perfect for pet owners and kids who are looking to take care of an animal for the first time. Unlike most animals, they are very easy, giving slow and gentle guidance to the children the entire time.
Rats have the capability to entertain you for hours because of how funny they are. There are literally hours of joy to be had by just observing them.
Conclusion
Pet rats are low in cost, remarkably smart, and very affectionate pets that, when given proper care, can bring great joy to their owners. Since they are cheap and require very basic care, they can be a wonderful option for anyone looking for a small yet interesting pet. Considering their needs and a sensible source will allow you to embark on an amazing adventure.
With the right information, you are now prepared to search for your newest companions. We recommend that you check a local rescue organization or a responsible breeder, because there are healthy and happy pet rats that are waiting to be adopted.
