The Ultimate Guide to Pet Rat

Rats are highly intelligent, affectionate, and social animals that make wonderful pets. Despite common misconceptions, they are clean, trainable, and deeply bond with their owners. In this guide, we’ll explore how to provide the best care for a pet rat, including what they like and dislike, how to set up the perfect environment, and a personal story about my own rat, Bobby..

Why Pet Rats Make Amaysing Companion

Unlike their wild relatives, domesticated rats (also called fancy rats) have been bred for generations to be friendly and comfortable around humans. They are highly social and thrive when given attention, mental stimulation, and a well-structured home environment.

Rats Are:

– Highly intelligent – They can learn their names, come when called, and even perform tricks.

– Affectionate – Many rats enjoy cuddles and will groom their owners as a sign of trust.

– Social animals – They prefer living in pairs or small groups rather than alone.

– Low-maintenance – With proper care, they are clean animals and do not smell when their cage is maintained.

Now that you know why rats make great pets, let’s talk about how to create the perfect home for them.

Setting Up the Ideal Rat Habitat

1. Choosing the Right Cage

• Size Matters – Rats need at least 2.5 cubic feet of space per rat. A large wire cage with multiple levels is best.

• Bar Spacing – No more than 1/2 inch apart to prevent escape.

• Good Ventilation – Avoid aquariums, as they trap ammonia and moisture.

2. Bedding & Nesting Materials

• Safe options: Paper-based bedding, aspen shavings, or fleece liners.

• Avoid: Cedar and pine shavings (these release harmful oils).

• Provide shredded paper or soft fabric for them to build cozy nests.

3. Enrichment & Toys

• Climbing & Hiding – Rats love hammocks, tunnels, and hideouts.

• Chew Toys – Their teeth grow continuously, so wooden blocks, untreated cardboard, and safe chew toys are essential.

• Exercise Wheel – A solid-surface wheel (at least 11 inches in diameter) helps keep them active.

• Foraging & Puzzle Toys – Hide treats to encourage natural foraging behaviour.

4. Diet & Nutrition

• High-quality rat pellets should be the main diet (avoid seed mixes, which lead to picky eating).

• Fresh vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, peas, and leafy greens.

• Fruits in moderation: Apples, bananas, and berries.

• Healthy treats: Cooked eggs, nuts, and whole grains.

• Foods to avoid: Chocolate, citrus, raw beans, onions, and anything sugary or processed.

5. Cleaning Routine

• Daily: Remove soiled bedding and uneaten food.

• Weekly: Wash the cage, toys, and accessories with pet-safe cleaner.

• Deep Clean: Every 2-3 weeks, fully disinfect the cage while keeping some familiar bedding to maintain their scent.

What Rats Like and Dislike

Rats Like:

– Spending time with their owners and other rats.

– Exploring new environments with supervised playtime.

– Being gently handled and cuddled (once they trust you).

– Climbing on furniture, shoulders, and even heads!

– Playing with interactive toys and solving puzzles.

2. Rats Dislike:

– Being alone for long periods (they need social interaction).

– Sudden loud noises or rough handling.

– Dirty environments with strong odours.

– Extreme temperatures (they need a stable, warm home).

– Citrus scents (many rats dislike the smell).

My Experience With Bobby - A Special Rat

One of the most unforgettable pets I’ve ever had was my rat, Bobby. He was a beautiful black-and-white rat with a curious and loving personality. Unlike many people assume about rats, Bobby was incredibly affectionate—he would come running when I called his name!

Bobby had a habit that melted my heart. If I was sitting down, he would climb up my leg, pawing at me to be picked up. Once I lifted him, he would settle comfortably on my shoulder, nuzzling against my neck as if it was his favourite place in the world. He loved attention and would even groom my hair, a sign of trust and affection in rats.

Whenever I entered the room, Bobby would be waiting at the edge of his cage, eagerly anticipating playtime. He had a keen intelligence, quickly learning tricks like spinning for a treat and running an obstacle course made of books and tunnels. But what made him truly special was the bond we shared—he wasn’t just a pet; he was a friend.

Through Bobby, I learned that rats are some of the most loving and loyal pets you can have. His trust and affection proved that, when cared for properly, these animals form deep connections with their humans.

Final Thoughts

Owning a pet rat is a rewarding experience that requires proper care, attention, and an enriching environment. By providing a spacious cage, a healthy diet, plenty of playtime, and social interaction, you can ensure your rat lives a happy, fulfilling life.

If you’re considering getting a pet rat, remember: they aren’t just small rodents—they are intelligent, loving companions who can become a cherished part of your life, just like Bobby was for me.

By : Agnieszka