• Rats are socials animals. They enjoy interacting with other rats to form close bonds.

    • Rats are intelligent. They can learn tricks.

    • Rats are clean. They spend a lot of time grooming themselves and others.

    • Rats are very good swimmers.

    • Rats are nocturnal. They are the most active at night.

    • Rats teeth are sharp and are always growing. They gnaw to keep them trimmed.

    • Rats have a powerful sense of smell. Which helps them to find food.

    • Rats live up to 2-4 years old.

    • Rats can ‘laugh’ when tickled.

  • Rats come in a variety of fur colours and patterns.

    Solid colours - A uniform colour across their entire body. Like brown, gray, black or white.

    Agouti - A pattern where the individual hairs have three bands of colours, giving them a mix-coloured appearance.

    Markings

    • Hooded - A solid colour with a marking on the head in a different colour.

    • Berkshire - A solid colour on the top of the body with white belly and feet.

    • Blazed - A solid colour on the head or body, with triangular white fur over the face.

    • Dalmation - A white body with black spots.

    • Himalayan - A mostly white body with colour points on the nose, ears, feet and tail.

    Coat textures

    • Standard - Short, smooth, glossy hair

    • Rex - Curly hair and whiskers

    • Satin - Thinner, longer coat with a sheen

    Eye colours

    • Black – The most common eye colour.

    • Ruby (Dark Red) – Appears black, shines red in bright light.

    • Red(Pink) – Bright red eyes.

    • Odd-Eyed – One eye is a different color than the other

  • A well-balanced diet is key to keeping rats healthy and active.

    Commercial Rat Food (Pellets or Mixes)

    Pellets - High-quality, nutritionally balanced rat food is a great base for your pet rat's diet. Always buy pellets that are specifically designed for rats. Those will provide the necessary vitamins, minerals, and protein.

    Rat Mixes - Some owners prefer feeding their rats a mix of seeds, grains, and dried fruits and vegetables. Do make sure the mix is formulated for rats, not for other small animals.

    Fresh Vegetables and Fruits

    Vegetables - Offer a variety of fresh vegetables. Like broccoli, carrots, cucumber, peas and sweet pepper. Dark leafy greens spinach are good, but only in moderation because of their oxalate content.

    Fruits - Fresh fruit can be a tasty treat for rats. Do offer it in moderation due to its sugar content. Good choices are apples, bananas, strawberries and melons. Avoid citrus fruits like oranges or lemons, which can be too acidic.

    Other foods

    Protein-Rich Foods - Rats are omnivores. They require some good protein like cooked eggs, cooked chicken or turkey (without seasoning) and cheese (small amounts)

    Grains and Carbohydrates

    Whole grains like oats, brown rice, and (dried) whole wheat pasta are healthy sources of carbohydrates and fiber for rats.

    Avoid Toxic Foods

    Some foods are toxic or harmful to rats. And should be avoided.

    Avoid foods like chocolate, caffeinated beverages, raw potatoes, alcohol and processed junk food

    Fresh Water

    Always provide fresh, clean water. Preferably in a hanging drinking bottle. Or a bowl if necessary. Make sure the water is changed daily.

    Occasional Treats

    You can offer your rat occasional treats like a small amount of nuts (unsalted, unseasoned), unsweetened whole-grain cereals or plain popcorn (without salt, sugar or butter)

  • Rats are very active and love to climb.

    Cage

    The recommended cage size is 90cm L x 60cm D x 100cm H for 2-5 rats. Although recommendations may very. The bigger and taller their cage, the better of course.

    The cage platforms are ideally solid or if wired, should be covered.

    And of course the cage needs enrichment. Like hammocks, ropes, tunnels and toys. Ceramic or stoneware food bowls are ideal as they can’t be tipped over. And glass or BPA-free plastic hanging water bottles.

    Free roam time

    Rats are social and intelligent. They thrive with regular free roam time.

    A daily minimum of 1 hour free roam time is recommended. But roaming 2-3 hours a day (or more) is ideal.

    Ensure their play area is rat-proof. Block off holes, cables and spaces they can squeeze into. Also remove any toxic plants or materials. Or use a playpen if the area can’t be completely rat proofed.

    They need enrichment in their play area. Use cardboard boxes, tunnels and toys. Scatter treats around or use a snuffle mat for foraging fun.

  • A good cage bedding is important for your rats health and comfort.

    It’s recommended to use a bedding that is dust free, soft and controls odors.

    Some examples are:

    Paper bedding

    Paper bedding is soft, absorbent, low-dust, and good in controlling odors.

    It can get a bit pricey

    Fleece Liners (Reusable Option)

    Use with a layer underneath to absorb urine. It’s cost-effective over time, soft, and washable.

    It can smell if not regularly washed.

    Hay

    Soft, dust free hay can be used combined with other bedding. Rats love burrowing in soft hay.

    It can trigger allergies in humans and rats alike.

  • Like any pet, rats can be prone to certain health conditions.

    Some examples are:

    Respiratory Infections - Respiratory problems are often caused by bacteria or viruses. Factors like poor ventilation or exposure to dust may increase the likelihood of respiratory problems.

    Symptoms include sneezing, wheezing, labored breathing, nasal discharge, and lethargy.

    Tumors - Rats are prone to developing tumors. Particularly benign mammary tumors in females. But also other kinds of tumors.

    A noticeable lump or swelling may indicate the presence of a tumor.

    Dental Problems - Rats teeth grow continuously. If they don't wear down properly, it can lead to overgrown teeth.

    This can cause difficulty eating, drooling, and weight loss. A vet may need to trim the teeth.

    Skin Issues - Rats can suffer from skin conditions like mites, lice, or fungal infections.

    Symptoms may include itching, hair loss, or scabs. These conditions may require treatment with special shampoos or medications.

    Diarrhea - Diarrhea in rats can be caused by dietary issues, stress, or bacterial infections.

    If not addressed, it can lead to dehydration and other complications.

    Kidney Disease - Older rats are especially prone to kidney problems.

    Which can lead to symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and a dull coat.

    Obesity- Rats can easily become overweight if they are fed too much or lack exercise.

    Obesity can lead to other health problems like heart disease or diabetes.

    Ear Infections - Rats can develop ear infections. Ear mites or bacteria are often the cause.

    Ear infections may lead to symptoms like head tilting, shaking their head, or scratching their ears.

    Bites or Injuries - Rats are active and curious. And can sometimes injure themselves or each other.

    Bites from other rats are common, if they’re not properly socialized.

    Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome - Rats can experience cognitive decline as they age.

    This may manifest as disorientation, difficulty navigating familiar areas, or changes in behavior.

    If you're concerned about your rats health, always consult a vet. Regular check-ups and care can help prevent many of these issues.