Created by kimmiekins (contact me)
My name is Kimberly, and I live in Cincinnati, OH. I run a rat rescue and have a "zoo" of personal pets; 2 dogs (Whippet & Lab), a cat,... (more...)
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Rats Make Great Pets!
Hi there. My name is Kimberly, and I am a rat-o-holic. :) I am the co-founder of Rattie Love Rescue in Cincinnati, OH. We take in pet rats that need homes (other small animals, too, sometimes) and re-home them. Yes, many are shocked to hear... There are many rat-rescues across the US and world!
I created this lens because I thought Squidoo needs a good rat info lens, to educate the public about the amazing creatures who have a horrible rap for no reason.
This may come as a surprise to many people, but rats actually make fantastic pets! They are lots of fun and interactive (both with humans and other rats), and much like little dogs that live in cages (and have much longer tails!). They're extremely intelligent, and very loyal to their humans.
If you're not a rat-lover yourself, I bet most everything you think you know about rats is untrue! Read on for TRUE information about these wonderful animals. Maybe a pair (or more) of ratties is in your future. :)
The Wonderful World Of Rats
For Lovers And Newbies, Alike
For rat owners...We know what it means to adore these wonderful creatures. Each one different, like humans! Each one finds their place in our hearts. Though their lives may not be as long as we'd like them to be (ever!), we enjoy each and every second they are with us. Their sweet faces, trusting nature, and playful nature tug at our heartstrings. You know what I mean about those faces, pressed up against the cage bars, begging for love, right? I think they learn that in Rat School. ;)
For the curious...
Rats really do make wonderful pets. For those who are not owners, I beg you to hold a rat and not fall in love with it. If you like dogs, you will like rats, no doubt. They are actually like little dogs that live in cages (unless you want to have free-range rats!). Rats have such a bad rap, with so many myths and misconceptions that simply are not true! Read on...
Rat Myths
It Just Simply Isn't True!
- Rats spread the bubonic plague.
Nope! Fleas did. They were carried on the fur of rats... Along with dogs and cats and other animals. It was the fleas, not the rats, that spread the plague. - Rats are dirty and carry disease.
Not pet rats! Watch a rat sometime... You will see that they are a bit compulsive when it comes to keeping themselves clean! They groom themselves often, and help each other with those hard-to-reach spots, too. (This is just one of MANY reasons why having more than one rat is very important!) - All rats bite and are dangerous.
Quite untrue! A well-socialized rat is downright friendly and will probably never bite. Rats need to be socialized as babies, just like other rodents. They love to be with humans, and many enjoy sitting on a person's shoulder or cuddling up in hoodies or sleeves. Even as a rat rescuer, I very rarely encounter rats that do bite, and those that do are often rats that we rescue from abusive or neglectful conditions. We HAVE rehabbed rats, it can be done! - Rats aren't too smart.
Quite the opposite. Rats are very smart, and very curious. They can be taught tricks and many learn their names. They are amazing at knowing how to pull at their owner's heartstrings! They remember things, and love to explore and figure everything out. They can solve "puzzles" (bird toys and whatnot).
Rat Swag
Makes Great Gifts
![I'm A [Happy] Slave...<br /> Sticker (Oval)](http://images.cafepress.com/image/16211008_125x125.jpg)
I'm A [Happy] Slave...<br /> Sticker (Oval)
Are your rats the center of your universe? The reason you've got no social life? Sounds like you are a slave to rats. Join the club! Added in a "happy" because we really are, aren't we?
Heart Dumbo Rats<br /> Sticker (Oval)
Do those sweet dumbo ears get you every time? Do you squeal at those dumbo faces? Are all your rats dumbos (or do you wish they were)?
Crazy Rat Lady Women's Tank Top
Okay females... You know that everyone thinks of you as the crazy rat lady, right? Because (they think) you have too many rats, or that owning rats is crazy in general. Well, they're right. Proclaim y
Fantastic (And Cheap) Toys For Rats
Generally... The Cheaper, The Better!
These are just a few ideas. Look around, and you'll find all sorts of goodies lying around the house that will work. Also, check dollar stores often!
- Paper towel or toilet paper tubes, stuffed with treats and folded on the sides.
- Bird toys - wooden are best. Better yet, make your own!
- Dryer tube or PVC piping. Cheap alternative to ferret tunnels!
- Small balls - cat balls (especially with bells inside), mini wiffle balls, ping pong balls, etc!
- Boxes! Collect all sorts of boxes. Put some holes in them, tape them together into a maze, etc. Rats LOVE boxes.
- Ratties love paper! Shred some paper for them to play with, nest with, etc.
- Branches are fun and great for the teeth. apple or willow branches are the best. Make sure all wood is untreated!
- Kid's toys are fantastic... Dollhouses and whatnot are the perfect size for rats.
- You! Lay down and let your rats explore you. Or, chase them with a hand and let them chase you back.
- The best thing for rats is other rats! :D
Rat-Related On Amazon
Rat goodies on Amazon
Training Your Pet Rat
Amazon Price: $8.99 (as of 05/09/2008)
List Price: $8.99
Oh Rats! The Story of Rats and People: The Story of Rats and People
Amazon Price: $11.55 (as of 05/09/2008)
List Price: $16.99
Rats: Complete Care Guide
Amazon Price: $9.95 (as of 05/09/2008)
List Price: $9.95
One is never enough!
Answer This, Please!
Rats can be addicting, that's for sure. Let us know how many furkids you've got.
Good Deals
Shop eBay For Rattie Items
Shop for your rats and get good deals at the same time. I swear by eBay!
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand by
Please Rescue!
When looking for rats (or any animals) as pets, please consider rescuing instead of buying. There are rats (and all kinds of pets) waiting for homes in shelters and rescues across the world. By supporting rescue, you're allowing our work to continue!
Be sure to check out Petfinder to find the perfect friend(s) for you.
Favorite Cage Amoung Rat Lovers
So many of us can't get enough of this cage!
Midwest 142 Ferret Nation Double-Level Ferret Cage with Ramps
Amazon Price: $191.87 (as of 05/09/2008)
List Price: $289.99
It's made for Ferrets, but works for rats (smaller rats will need a modification of hardware wire, but it's worth it - a "rat version" of this cage IS in the works!). It's, by FAR, the easiest cage to clean. You will LOVE this cage! Each "section" (spotlighted is the cage with 2 "sections") can hold 6 rats! That's 12 for this specific model. WOW!
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At Least 2!
Rats are VERY social creatures. They really need the companionship of at least one other rat. Rats without friends can become depressed and lonely. They can stop eating, or even die (seriously). Beyond that, having more than one rat makes things more fun for you, too!
Having 2 rats is no more work than having one.
Shop For Supplies Online!
Through Petco.com
Marshall Pet Ferret Sleep Sack (12" Wide X 20" Long; Blue)
Price: $14.99
A must-have for your ferret. It's a sleeping bag and hideaway for use in his cage or out. This durable pouch features canvas outer with a cozy fleec... more »
Marshall Pet Ferret Lookout (16" Diameter X 12"H)
Price: $29.99
Give your ferret a window on his world with our Ferret Lookout.This cozy hideaway hangs from your wire cage to suspend your ferret over his surroundin... more »
Ferret Frenzy Toys ()
Price: $3.99
A toy chest full of fun and entertainment in one value-priced pack.This assortment of colorful, ferret-sized toys includes rattling and clanging, plas... more »
Marshall Pet Ferret Teaser Toy (4.5" Length Toy; Assorted)
Price: $6.99
Toy with your ferret. Our Marshall Pet Ferret Teaser Toy is a fun fleece covered toy with a bell inside dangling from a fishing-pole style wand. You... more »
Marshall Pet Ferret Hanging Tube (5.5" Diameter Opening; 18.5" Length; Corduroy)
Price: $18.99
Give your ferret a place to hangout, lookout, and have fun with our Marshall Pet Ferret Hanging Tube. This sturdy fabric tube with its center peek-a-... more »
Marshall Pet Ferret Hanging Tube (5.5" Diameter Opening; 18.5" Length; Fleece)
Price: $22.99
Give your ferret a place to hangout, lookout, and have fun with our Marshall Pet Ferret Hanging Tube. This sturdy fabric tube with its center peek-a-... more »
Marshall Pet Ferret Carry Sack (11.5" X 12")
Price: $28.99
Safely ferry your ferret with our Ferret Carry Sack.This roomy tote features accordion style folds that ensure plenty of room for several ferrets. Gr... more »
Marshall Pet Ferret Cozy Igloo (9"W X 9"D X 10"H)
Price: $16.99
The ideal resting spot for your ferret.Single opening allows your ferret to use his natural burrowing instinct to settle in for quality rest. Removab... more »
Small Animal Kingdom Ferret Jacks Toy (1.5"; 3 pack)
Price: $1.99
Ferrets are playful and inquisitive pets. Ferret Jacks are designed to provide hours of continuous fun and exercise for your ferret. Small Animal King... more »
Small Animal Kingdom Ferret Wiffle Ball & Wagon Wheel 2-pack (1.5" Diameter Ball; Wiffle Ball & Wagon Wheel)
Price: $1.99
Translucent plastic Wiffle Ball and Wagon Wheel ferret toys with bells provide hours of safe, continuous fun and exercise for your ferret. Your playf... more »
Talk About Your Furkids!
Here's Your Chance... Take It!
Here's your chance to babble on about your ratties. Many owners find that some people just don't understand why we love to chat rat. Talk to us, instead.
Share how many you have, how long you've had rats, if you have boys, girls or both. Tell us a funny story about your silly rats. Anything (rat-related) goes!
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SusanShaw
Great lens! I had rats about 15 years ago when I was in high school, and they were great pets--really smart and affectionate. People used to get freaked out when I would tell them about my little friends, but I think nowadays people are becoming more aware. Posted February 10, 2008 |
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-Artistesque-
Great ratty lens! Love rats and I've got 2 rescue boys Shadow & Spook.. always kept rats as they're so wonderful :) Posted February 03, 2008 |
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Evelyn_Saenz
As fellow misunderstood rodents we Lemmings have enjoyed your lens. We now know that you make great pets. Do you also make good classroom pets? Posted January 30, 2008 |
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genglo
I love ratties, they are so sweet and smart. If I didn't have a house full of carnivores, I'd surely have a few ratties. Posted January 13, 2008 |
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Lily_Link
I was flipping through and found your lens. It looks good. I have 3 female rats. They the cutest things. Much better to watch and play in groups than singley. Posted January 02, 2008 |
Theres these 2 rats that I've gotten really close too for the past 3 weeks seeing them everyday! Now that I've gotten to know them and being around pet rats for the first time I WAS HOOKED! I love all pet rats now!
Posted September 12, 2007
Photos Of My Rats
Meet My Boys!
I love showing off my boys. Aren't the precious?! You can see more them over at my flicker page!
Videos Of Rats
You'll Never Tire Of Watching These
Pet rat giving birth
RATTIES!! Rats, Rats, and more...
Pet rats take a shower
If I could be where you are - ...
Pet rat opens a drawer
Pet rat jumps into Christmas p...
Here's my favorite link:
Rats Elsewhere Online
Where To Go Now?
- Rat Info Packet
- The BEST site for learning all you can about rats.
- The Dapper Rat
- One of the BEST sites about rats. They take such wonderful rat photos as well.
- Scamperats Scamper Art
- Art... by rats. Yes, that's right... Rattie paintings. Too cool!
- Raticons by Angelrat Designs
- Free rat graphics. These are too cute!
- Rats Rule
- A huge resource for all things rats, by none other then the infamous Suebee.
- Ratty Corner
- "In Celebration of Rats as Pets". Lots of great information here.
- Better Holes and Garbage
- LOL, great site. "Your Rat Housekeeping Resource", they say!
- Fancy Rats
- Huge site all about rats. Has a community, tons of information, and more.
Ratatouille Goodies
Our favorite rat movie!
Ratatouille
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Amazon Price: $19.99 (as of 05/09/2008)
List Price: $29.99
Usually ships in 24 hours
The Art of Ratatouille
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Amazon Price: $26.00 (as of 05/09/2008)
List Price: $40.00
Usually ships in 24 hours
Disney Pixar Ratatouille 8" Remy Plush
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Amazon Price: $12.99 (as of 05/09/2008)
List Price:
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ratatouille
Avg. Customer Rating: 
Amazon Price: $20.01 (as of 05/09/2008)
List Price: $19.99
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ratatouille
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Amazon Price: $14.99 (as of 05/09/2008)
List Price: $18.98
Usually ships in 24 hours
