Average Size: 8-18 inches

Lifespan: Up to 5 years

Hygiene and Health: Provide a sipper bottle refilled with fresh water daily. Scoop soiled areas as needed. Remove all bedding and wash the entire cage, food bowls, and water bottle weekly. Always rinse and dry the cage thoroughly before adding fresh bedding.

Avoid bedding such as pine or cedar shavings because they contain harmful oils and should never be used for rats. This bedding is commonly not suitable for small animals.

Behavior: Like all animals, rats have their own "language" and behaviors that people new to rats are left trying to interpret.  If you can understand your pet, you can build a better relationship with him and make better judgments.  Here are some behaviors you may experience and what they mean.

Diet: A healthy diet consists of primarily dry food (lab blocks or a commercial mix such as Reggie Rat) and as a supplement of a variety of fresh vegetables and fruit. Dry food should always be available in a dish or food hopper. Healthy treats can be offered, in moderation.

Habitat: Choose as large a cage as possible for your rats, ideally 18 in X 36 in with 2 and above stages/levels and room for toys such as a solid exercise wheel, ladders, tubes and a hammock. The floor should be solid, as wire can injure rats' feet. Place the cage out of direct sunlight and drafts, and in an area with loud family activity. Cover the floor with safe bedding such as Carefresh or Aspen shavings. For your rats' comfort add a nest box filled with soft shredded paper.

Taming, Training and Handling: Rats need daily attention to become trusting and easy to handle. Offering food from your hand, and avoiding loud noises and sudden movements will help to build confidence and soon your rat will enjoy being held. At least 1 hour a day of exercise outside the cage is essential for optimal health, and great fun for the whole family.

Loner or groupies: Male rats need to be kept alone or most likely they will fight to the death. Keeping a male and female together will produce babies which could be a major health risk as your cage most likely will be be suitable for that many rats. Females can be kept together though.

Recommended Supplies: