fancy pet rats

Pet Rats will live between two and three years and are nocturnal creatures so if you have your rat cage in your bedroom you may not get much sleep! The male rat is called a buck and female a doe and the babies are kittens or pups. Be careful how many rats you want to keep together and their gender. Rats reach breeding age at approximately six to eight weeks so you could have a very large pet rat population if you do not take some care!

Due to their high intelligence Pet Rats can make a fantastic pet. Children especially enjoy keeping pet rats as they are easily tamed (the rats not the children!).

If you want to keep a few rats together it is best to have same sex groups. Even males will live happily together if they have been littler mates.

Pet Rats are omnivores meaning they will eat a variety of foods from vegetables and rice to meat. The males are larger than the females and lazy but the females which are usually smaller are more active and will play happily. Both sexes make excellent pets if the right environment is provided.

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Pet Rat Care: The Top 10 Mistakes of New Rat Owners
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Colin_Patterson]Colin Patterson

Being a dedicated rat owner can be very rewarding.  All it takes is a little research and a lot of preparation. 

If you're getting ready to adopt a rat as a cherished pet, there are some pitfalls that you should be aware of beforehand.  Here are 10 of the most common mistakes that first-time rat owners make:

1. Getting only one rat.  A person might think that getting two rats is too much extra work...or that a pet rat will bond with a human owner more readily if there is no other rat around to become friends with.  The truth is that rats are highly social creatures.  They need to have other rat-friends to play with and to "talk" to.  Furthermore, taking care of two rats is not much more work than caring for one.

2. Getting the wrong kind of bedding.  Sometimes a rat owner will want to cut corners and use newspaper or cheap bedding.  Rats are very sensitive to the chemicals in the ink and cheap bedding can often have dusty particles that will irritate their lungs.  If you see a red discharge coming from their noses, chances are, there is an irritant present in the air.  Pine wood chips are not safe!

3. Feeding the rats an imbalanced diet.  No, it's not cute how your furry friends can eat almost as much pizza as you.  Look, there's no excuse.  Fruits and veggies are not expensive items to buy; also, be sure they get their share of lab blocks, seeds, and a daily dab of a vitamin supplement.

4. Not cleaning the cage often or thoroughly enough.  Their urine will decompose and produce ammonia.  This, along with the decomposing bedding can irritate their lungs.  Yes, it's a pain to do. But putting up with the unpleasant aspects will only help you to appreciate them more.  Clean and disinfect with bleach-water once a week, or up to two weeks, maximum.

5. Not taking them out to play often enough.  Rats will eventually get depressed if they remain cooped up inside their limited cage environment.  If you make play time fun and challenging, you will be looking forward to the bonding time as well!

6. Deciding to breed for the wrong reasons. Breeding responsibly is not a lucrative or easy hobby to get into, especially at the beginning.  Don't get stuck with a litter of rats that wind up becoming snake-food at a pet store.  Instead, try investing some time volunteering for or starting an apprenticeship with a breeder.

7. Not giving them enough toys. If you bore your rats, they will become boring.  Rats not only love to play, explore and solve problems, but they actually need to be constantly stimulated by a challenging learning environment.  Provide them with a variety of toys and games and switch things around constantly.  They'll love you for it!

8. Entering them into a fancy rat show before researching it.  You may love your rats and think they are just the most perfect rats you have ever seen, but the American Fancy Rat and Mouse Association (AFRMA) has very strict standards and those judges have seen hundreds--if not thousands--of rats in their day.  Before deciding to enter your rats into a show, visit one first.  Interview a handful of judges and learn exactly what makes a rat top in its class.  Then decide.

9. Procrastinating on researching a qualified vet for small animals.  The moment one of your rats becomes ill, you will want to have the phone number of a good vet handy.  Not all vets will treat small animals or rats.  Do the searching beforehand and spare yourself the frustration and desperation an emergency situation can sometimes bring about.

10. Underestimating the importance of belonging to a rat club or rat society.  Belonging to a rat club or rat society such as AFRMA will go a long way in getting your key rat questions answered.  Moreover, doing so will connect you with a community of rat lovers who are likely to want to share what they know for the sake of advancing the hobby as a whole.

Colin Patterson is author of a guide to   pet rat care that will explain all you need to know if you're thinking about getting pet rats. Visit Colin's site at http://www.petratguide.com

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Rats belong to the Rattus genus of the family Muridae. These are the most dominant species on earth and there are several species of rat in the world. Rats are mainly herbivorous but have been known to eat some animal protein. Generally there are two types of rat. The black or roof rat and the Norway or brown rat. Both of these species are thought to have originated in Asia and have spread widely throughout the world.

The Norway rat has many other names, such as the house rat, barn rat, grey rat and wharf rat. This is the larger of the two species and is the best known. A fully grown brown rat will be between 18-26cm in length and will weigh 400-600grams. These creatures have a shorter tail than the body and a blunt nose and muzzle. These rats prefer moist conditions and nest deep in burrows.

The roof rat which is often called the ships rat or black rat are 16-21cm long and weigh about 80-300grams. Their tail is longer than the body and they have a pointed muzzle. These rats can climb expertly and will climb up to the roofs of buildings and take up residence there.

These species of rat will breed up to 13 times a year producing up to 22 in a litter! Their diet is anything really.. and they will consume one third their body weight in food every 24 hours.

These two species of rat are the ones that give all rats a bad name. They carry diseases and damage structures. If they are near food they will contaminate it with diseases potentially fatal to humans. Some of these include Weils disease, plague, salmonella and toxopalasmosis not forgetting food poisioning.

Do not confuse the domesticated pet ratwith these species. The domesticated tame rats are clean of disease and will not cause harm to their carer.

Pet Rat Care
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell]Michael Russell

Even though it might not seem like it, rats actually make great pets and companions. They are very smart animals and extremely clean. Rats absolutely love attention and form strong bonds with their owners. They are not for everyone though.

Before you get a pet rat, make sure you will have time to interact with it every day and clean out the cage at least once a week. You will also need to find a vet that treats rats.

You will need to find a good place in your home to keep your rat cage. Make sure the area is draft free, climate controlled and in a room that does not have stressful noises. Try to get a relatively large cage. Rats should not be kept in small aquariums or cramped cages.

When you get a rat, it is recommended that you actually get two rats of the same sex. Rats are very sociable animals and will be much happier with a friend. Two rats will groom each other, play together, and sleep together. Rats can be kept alone but it is much better to have more than one.

There are several sources for obtaining a rat. Pet stores often have rats, but they often do not have the best temperaments. If you get a rat from a pet store, make sure that the males and females are kept in separate cages. Rats mature at a very young age, so if you get a female from a store that keeps the males and females together, you may be getting a pregnant rat. Try to choose a healthy looking, friendly rat. Getting a rat from a breeder is probably the best place to get them from. Rats from breeders are usually very healthy and tame. Animal shelters also sometimes have rats. Just be aware that these rats were abandoned and may have behavioral problems.

Your rat will be spending a lot of time in its cage so make sure you get accessories to keep you rat happy. First, you will need a bed or sleeping spot for your rat. You can use a nest box or anything similar that lets your rat have privacy. You will also need bedding, which can be shredded paper, paper towels, or Carefresh bedding.

Rats need things to do in their cage so they don't get bored. You can get many different types of toys for them. An exercise wheel is a wonderful cage accessory if your rat will run in one. Just do not get a wire wheel because they can be injured on these. Other great toys include ladders, bird branches, ropes, and climbing tubes. Rats love to get up high so you can also get a hammock that hangs in the cage. There are many different types sold at pet stores.

Rats will need food and water in their cage at all times. You should use water bottles instead of water bowls so they don't get knocked over or dirty. There are many packaged mixed grain diets available at pet stores but these are actually not recommended. They usually have too much corn or seed in them and don't have the nutrients your rat needs. Lab blocks are the best base diet to feed your rat, but you should also feed vegetables, fruits and some nuts. Harlan Teklad is an excellent brand of lab blocks.

Rats love attention and will look forward to being with you. They are much smarter than other rodents, which makes them a lot more fun to play with. Before your rat will play with you though, it has to learn to trust you. When your rat starts to trust you, you can let them ride on your shoulder and play with them. When you let the rat out, just is sure the area is rat-proofed so they don't get hurt.

Rats make great pets. They don't require the care that most pets do, like bathing, clipping and walking. They can even be litter trained! Once your rat learns to trust you, it will start to form a very strong bond with you. Rats are extremely playful and cuddly. They do require time and care though. Learn as much as you can about rats before you get one.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to [http://pet-care-guide.com/]Pet Care

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Pet Rats: Understanding Common Rat Behavior and Body Language - A Rat /People dictionary
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Diana_Davidson]Diana Davidson

I'm about to take you" behind the scenes" into the rat mind. You could say this is a Rat /People dictionary on Rat behavior.

If you pay careful attention to the things I'm about to reveal to you, you'll definitely have more success with your pet rat.

Firstly...what's a Rat Stare?

What's a Rat Stare I hear you ask?

Do your rats have a disturbing habit? Do they stare straight ahead for long periods of time?

Is it rather unnerving to see them staring, unmoving, with their eyes wide open for hours on end.

Do your ratties see dead people? Is it a sixth sense thing?

Don't fret your not the only one. For anyone that's owns(ed) a rat this is this normal rat behavior.

The Rat Stare and other rat behavior's and body language are explained in this issue.

Pet owners often speak to their "babies" in human baby talk, but as with any animal (as smart as they are!) you're probably better off understanding your rats' behavior by their body language. With rats in particular, there are telltale signs that they will demonstrate, and that you will be able to interpret successfully.

The following are some of the typical things that owners of pet rats have witnessed their buddies doing from time to time. Some are funny, some may be a little frightening...but rest assured that most of it is just your usual rattie's behavior!

Note: these rat behaviors are generally perfectly normal of rats that are healthy and well socialized, with no current, apparent medical problems (they are active and their diets and bowel movements are normal). If your rat isn't eating right, has improper bowel movements or is demonstrating other unusual or destructive behavior - consult a small animal vet or your rats' breeder immediately.

Body Language -
 
Your one rat curls up its tail (while your other rat doesn't)

Possible Reasons:

Your rat is simply balancing itself. A rat's tail is for balance - even if one rat seems to use their tail more. Watch and you'll see both rats keep their tails ½" off the ground, particularly when they are balancing on your shoulder or climbing up to a higher space.

Body Language -

Your rat stands up and 'swings' its nose in the air Your rat sways its head from side to side.

Possible Reasons:

Your rat is catching a whiff! Rats have incredible senses of smell, and they are just identifying something in the air that is intriguing to them.

Rats don't have superior vision. Never fear, your rat can see - but sight isn't it's strongest sense, making this normal behavior part of your rat's vision process.

Body Language -

Your rat is licking you all the time.

Your rat is grinding their teeth in your ear!

Your rat's eyeballs are bugging out of their head!

Possible Reasons:

Face it - you're one big rat to them!

That's actually a big compliment to you, and all of those behaviors (teeth "bruxing" and eye 'boggling') mean that your rat loves you and will try to groom you like a true companion (they probably also like the taste of salt of your skin!).

These are some common rat behaviors and rat body language people have questions about, and experienced with their pet rat. These explanations I have provided will guarantee to help you understand your little buddy(s) and ensure you are a successful rat owner.

Diana Davidson is author of a new neat book on pet rat care which is a great resource that contains information you wouldn't find at your local library. For lots more pet rat care information, tips, quirky and interesting facts, and answers to your questions visit Diana's site at [http://www.rattiesecrets.com/]http://www.rattiesecrets.com.

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An Active Rat is a Happy Rat
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Dawn_Arkin]Dawn Arkin

Owning a rat is more than just making sure they have food, water and a clean cage. It is also making sure they are active and have enough toys to play with to keep their bodies and minds active and keep them healthy.

Rats are sweet animals that enjoy play time. They are very intelligent and enjoy games that test their mental abilities as well as their physical ones. Both physical and mental stimulation is important to rat health.

Think about your rat's personality before you go shopping for toys. Some will go over big while others will be ignored. There are many different types of toys you can choose for your furry little friend.

Chewing

Rats love to chew. It keeps their teeth, which are constantly growing, at a healthy length and it satisfies their natural desire to gnaw. The things they love to chew are wood, rawhide, and cardboard. Be sure you pick chew toys that are free of preservatives to keep your rat safe. You can find these at pet stores and your own home. Paper towels or toilet paper tubes and cardboard egg cartons make excellent toys for your rat.

Shredding

Another great toy for rats is paper towels and toilet paper. Rats love to rip and tear and will use the shredded results as bedding. Use only fragrance free, white paper towels or toilet paper to avoid potentially harmful dyes or fragrances.

Climbing

Rats love to climb as any rat owner knows. Up the side of the cage, across the top and back down is something they will do all night long. You can make their cage more climb-friendly by placing a rope, ladder or fabric hammock inside to give your rat things to climb and hang from.

Tunneling

In nature, rats are tunnel makers. They use tunnels for passageways and homes. Pet stores have ready-made tunnels out of a variety of materials. Plastic, wood and cardboard as some of the types of tunnels you will find there. But be prepared, rats will chew through a wooden or cardboard tunnel. It is in their nature to do this. So do not be surprised if you have to replace these types of tunnels on a regular basis.

Running

Running in an exercise wheel or ball are both wonderful ways for your rat to get exercise without needing a lot of room. When choosing a wheel pick one that has a solid running space, to keep your rat's feet from getting stuck in the holes. For most rats, you will need a wheel at least 11 inches in diameter with a secure base, preferably attached to the cage. When buying an exercise ball pick one that is big enough for your rat to be comfortable in while running.

Playing

Plastic balls with bells inside can be very fun for your rats to play with. Choose ones that are made of hard plastic, you can find them in the cat toy section of the pet store. Avoid ones that are made of soft plastic and have feathers or other such things on them.

Foraging

In nature, rats spend most of their time looking for food. They have a desire to find things and love to search for hidden treats. You can either make your own hiding box from a small cardboard box, or purchase one from a pet store. Either way, your rat will have a wonderful time tying to get his treat.

Regardless of which toy you choose always inspect the toys daily for wear and breakage. Remove and replace any toys that are broken or so excessive chewing damage, for your rat's safety.

Rats require activity and mental stimulation to be healthy. Spending time with your rats and giving them toys to play with when you can not be there will help keep them healthy and happy.

Dawn Arkin is a writer and animal lover who enjoys spending time with her pets. This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.PetLovers.Com/ which is a site for   Pets.

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How To Keep Your Pet Rats Happy And Healthy As They Age
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Colin_Patterson]Colin Patterson

With pet rats, most aging symptoms are similar to those of humans. And as with people, it takes caring and patience to assist your dear rattie through her last stage of life.

The best preparation is to know what to expect.  For example, old rats have the tendency to develop incontinence, urinating all over themselves.  All you can really do is give them frequent baths.  Otherwise, their fur will have a yellow tint and foul smell.  Also, their bones and teeth can become sore; so be sure to lay down extra soft bedding and feed them soft, water-rich foods.

Putting fruits and veggies through a juicer is a great way to continue feeding them.  Put the juice into their water bottle along with ice chips to keep it fresh longer.  At that point, stop feeding them lab blocks.

When arranging the furniture, adapt the living environment to their abilities.  Once rats get old, they are no longer able to run, climb and jump as they used to; nor are they able to recover from injuries as easily.  Be sensitive to this and make their cage as safe as possible by lowering all their platforms and making their food and water available lower.

As rats age, it gets more difficult for their bodies to regulate their temperatures.  That means they will be most prone to hypothermia in the winter and overheating in the summer.  To keep them warm, in extremely cold weather place a heating pad or electric blanket below (not inside!) their cage.  Ice cubes and a powerful fan (placed far away) can help cool an elderly rat during a heat wave.

There are other tell-tale signs of rat-aging.  Once their appetites decrease, they'll lose a lot of weight.  Don't be surprised if their bones begin to show.  After awhile, they will become less interested in grooming themselves.  As a result, their hair will be disheveled.

It is not uncommon to see a rat that is on the brink of death frantically get up and start running and hopping around in circles.  On the other hand, elderly rats frequently suffer from hind leg paralysis and spend the rest of their lives falling or dragging their hind quarters around.  Eventually, your rats will suddenly begin struggling to breathe, passing away within days or hours.

Dealing with the loss of your dear friend can be the most difficult part of being a pet rat owner. You gave all your love to your rat and took the best care of them that you possibly could... but your efforts were ultimately in vain. However, you did the best you could and gave your rattie the best possible life during his short time with you.

Colin Patterson is author of a   pet rat book called 'Pet Rats: How to Easily Train and Care For Your Ratties... To Have a Happy Life Together' -- check it out by going to http://petratguide.com

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