MEET THE RAT
Fancy rats have been kept as pets since the 1800s, and it's no wonder why they've remained popular. These rodents are incredibly intelligent, personable, and loving, making them excellent companions for people of all ages. If you're new to the world of small pets, rats are a fantastic choice. They are known for their clean habits and their ability to learn tricks and respond to their names.
Lifespan
2 - 3 years
Good With Kids
Yes
Space Requirement
Medium
Time Needed Outside Cage
High
Potty Trainability
Medium
Diet Difficulty
Low
Care Difficulty
Low
Cleanliness
Medium
Human Interaction Needs
High
Cuddliness
High
ENCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS
MNPPR Recommends
Double Critter Nation
Critter Nation cages are easy to clean, customize, and move around. Plus, they come in both single and double sizes, depending on how much room you have and how many rats you want to keep.
Minimum Dimensions
One rat: 2 cubic ft
Two rats: 4 cubic ft
Three rats: 6 cubic ft
Other Notes
Wire-sided cages are preferable because they provide plenty of ventilation and options for climbing. Taller cages with levels are best.
Bar spacing should be no more than 1” for adult rats and 0.5” for young rats.
All cage floors, ramps, and levels should be solid or covered with fleece since standing on wire can cause injuries and bumblefoot.
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MNPPR strongly recommends avoiding all wood-based beddings due to the general sensitivity of pocket pets. We like to use fleece to line the cage and cover any exposed wire floors, then use unscented paper bedding as litter placed in a litter box. When the fleece is soiled, simply throw it in the wash and replace it as needed.
Most rats can be trained to use a litter box, which can make cleaning even easier.
ENRICHMENT REQUIREMENTS
Essentials
water bottle
food bowl
hammock
at least one shelter/hide
litter box
Variety
tunnels
balls
toilet paper tubes
cardboard
stuffed animals
cardboard boxes
treat balls
puzzle toys
Other Items
ramps
wheel
pet bed
pet carrier
anti-pill fleece
unscented litter: soft recycled paper such as CareFresh, shredded paper, or paper pellets
FEEDING REQUIREMENTS
Staple Diet
Always keep your rat's food bowl full of high-quality rat/mouse kibble, pellets, or blocks such as Oxbow. Seed mix food should not be used. They are often missing vital nutrients, and many rats will only eat their favorite-tasting pieces, causing an unbalanced diet. If your rat is overweight, they may need fewer treats or more exercise.
Treats
There are many options for store-bought treats made for rats, but fresh food can also make great treats. Be sure they are not storing anything in their nests that could rot. Rats should never get more than 1 tablespoon of treats a day, or they may become obese.
Safe Treats
apples
bananas
bell peppers
blueberries
broccoli
carrots
cauliflower
Cheerios
cranberries
cucumbers
cooked eggs
green beans
mealworms
parsley
peas
pumpkin seeds
plain popcorn
raspberries
sunflower seeds
timothy hay
unsalted crackers
yogurt
any citrus fruit
apple seeds
cabbage
cheese
corn
fizzy drinks
garlic
milk
onions
peanuts
poppy seeds
raisins
raw beans
raw meat
rhubarb
walnuts
Unsafe Treats
DISCLAIMER
All information shared by MN Pocket Pet Rescue is researched, up to date, and accurate to the best of our ability. We are not a licensed veterinary organization and do not intend to present ourselves as such. All educational material contains our best recommendations for care specific to each species. However, all animals are different, and some may have unique needs. MN Pocket Pet Rescue does not assume any liability for the well-being of any animal not under our care. Always use your best judgment and follow veterinary recommendations whenever necessary. If you have any questions or find inaccurate information, please contact us.