Now that you have a place that your rat can really call home, it is now time to choose a rat to bring you home. But what kind of rat is good? When looking for a good pet rat you must first consider the source. The best place to buy your pet rat is from a breeder of rats. Most of these rats were handled with care by the owner since birth and are docile enough to become pets. Often, you will get rats from your local pet shop that are used as food for the snake and have suffered a lot of stress. Although you can get one of them mercifully, they are usually unhealthy, aggressive due to their experiences in life, and can sometimes be a waste of money if you invest in them.
It’s also often good buying pet rats in pairs, as rats can get very lonely when living all by themselves. Buy rats in same-sex couples and not different sex couples unless you plan to reproduce pet rats. Many times, breeders will not sell you a rat pet unless they know you have another rat who can be there as a companion. Rats are also easily tamed if they are in the company of others of their kind, and this company makes them happier.
Males tend to be larger and somewhat lazier, but cuddlier. Females are smaller and tend to be playful, curious and active.
There are different places where you can find a rat to adopt. Some pet stores sell, but make sure that the owners of the place have a general knowledge of rats and the rats are in good condition. Some things to look for are: if the cages are large and clean, if rats are alert and active, their coats in good condition or if there are sores and patches of bald eagles.
Males and females should be housed separately at the breeder’s store. This avoids the issue of buying a pregnant female.
Other health problems to look for is if there is flow through the nose, eyes and ears (not a good sign), and if the teeth are in good shape.
A well-established breeder tends to be a good choice to find a pair of rats to adopt. Most breeders love their animals, and have already handled and socialized the babies.
Animal rescue centers sometimes have rats in search of a new home. Shelters tend to take care of any health problem that could have been the rats, but it is always wise to give your choice a check, just in case.
Also watch for behavioral difficulties – the rats could not have been treated well by their previous owners. If they are a little shy, this can be corrected with time, patience and good care. Avoid those that appear aggressive, because it’s a bad sign. Rats are not aggressive by nature.
Bring your pet rat home
When bringing home your pet rat, know that rats are very easily startled. The basic diet for your rat should be lab blocks or homemade food grain mix as “Soybean Diet” or dog food. There are many online recipes for rat food. You can also supplement their diet with fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, or baked beans.
Cleaning up your pet rat
Cleaning should be done at least weekly and daily checks should be made for the caged rats to ensure that their conditions remain healthy and hygienic, I recommend buying a second cage to shift the rats while you’re cleaning up. It will make things easier for you.