A Guide to Keeping and Caring for Pet Rats

Rats often have a reputation as pests, but they are intelligent and social animals. Pet rats are easy to care for but are not low-maintenance. They need significant attention and exercise outside their cages—ideally, at least one hour per day. They tame easily, which is ideal for owners who enjoy handling their pets.

Discover more about pet rats and how to ensure their well-being.

Pet Rat Facts

• Average lifespan of a pet rat is 18 to 36 months.
• Most pet rats are actually a type of rat called a Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus). Other names for a Norway rat are common rat, brown rat, street rat, sewer rat, Hanover rat, Norwegian rat, or wharf rat.
• 6.7 million households in the U.S. have small animals, including rats, as pets.
• A Norway rat body is typically 9 to 11 inches long. Their tail is an additional 7 to 9 inches long.
• Rats have a wide range of markings as well as breed varieties, including standard/smooth, rex, hairless, and tailless.
• Rats are nocturnal so they will be most active at night.
• Rats are social creatures so they do best if kept with another rat or a group of rats.
• Male rats are called bucks, females are does, and babies are pups.
• As a rule, males are larger, somewhat lazier than females, and have a coarser coat. Females are smaller and tend to be more active and playful than males.
• Male rats are sexually mature by 6 to 10 weeks; female rats are sexually mature by 8 to 12 weeks. They shouldn't be bred this young though, so make sure males and females are separated before they reach this age.
• Females go into heat for about 24 hours every four or five days once they reach puberty and may seem agitated or restless during this time. This is why it is so easy to breed rats.
• When handled gently and cared for properly, rats will be comfortable interacting with you and won’t be aggressive; however, they can bite if they’re scared, traumatized, or threatened.
• Fancy rats are domesticated brown rats that are kept as pets.

Rats as Pets

Since rats are very social they should never be kept alone. Same-sex pairs or groups are ideal. Males usually get along fine with other males, especially if introduced at a young age or if they are littermates.

Keeping rats in groups does not complicate taming if handled from a young age. The bond with your pets remains strong, even with several. Many owners appreciate their pets' curiosity and often compare a rat's companionship to that of a dog.

Rats need spacious enclosures, ideally a multi-level wire cage with a solid base. A minimum size of 2 feet by 2 feet by 2 feet suits two rats, providing ample space to play and exercise. Line the cage with a safe substrate, like aspen bedding, and ensure they have a food dish and water bottle. Also, include various toys and hiding places.

Where to Get a Pet Rat

There are several options for acquiring a new pet rat. Although pet stores are an obvious choice, ensure the staff is knowledgeable about rat care. The animals should be kept in clean, appropriate housing, receive a good diet, and be handled regularly. Additionally, ensure that stores house males and females separately to prevent unexpected litters.

Breeders, known as ratteries, are ideal for sourcing well-socialized young rats. They ensure early socialization and handling. Breeders are also likely your best option if seeking specific coat types or unique rat colors.

Consider animal shelters if you're looking to rescue a rat in need. Check local shelters or seek rat-specific rescue groups. Choose a rat with a good temperament, remembering that rescued rats may initially be skittish or shy. With patience, this shyness is often overcome.

Regardless of the source, avoid aggressive rats, as this trait is difficult to overcome and most rats are naturally non-aggressive.

Choosing a Pet Rat

Avoid selecting rats that are panicky when handled, especially if they don't calm down quickly. Also, steer clear of rats that are overly quiet and calm, as they may be ill. Ideally, choose a rat curious enough to approach you.

Rats can carry diseases  transferable to humans, like rat bite fever, ringworm, and leptospirosis. It's essential to choose a healthy rat and maintain their health at home.

Rats should appear alert and active. Look for these traits:

• Their body should be firm and well-rounded but younger rats are likely to be on the lean side.
• The nose, eyes, ears, and rear end should be clean and free from discharge.
• The coat should be clean and well-groomed (healthy rats spend a lot of time grooming).
• The skin on the ears and tail should be clean and pink, not red or brown. It should also be free of sores, redness, and dandruff.
• Their feet should be free of sores, or "bumbles," and they should walk without limping.
• Lice is common in pet rats so also check for nits—small white eggs on the hair—behind the ears where there is less fur.
• Watch the rat's breathing to make sure it is not labored and make sure the rat is not sneezing or having discharge from the nose or eyes. All of these things can be signs of respiratory disease which is fairly common in rats.
• Watch for drooling or wetness around the mouth which can be a sign of dental problems.

By being observant in your selection, you'll enjoy a satisfying companionship and a few years of fun with your new pet rat.