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Would you find it hard to believe that rats are loving, affectionate, sensitive animals? Well, it's true. These fun-loving, social animals are quickly becoming the craze of the pet world.
RATS
Domestic rats can bring just as much enjoyment to their owners and handlers as any other animal. Contrary to modern thought, rats are not dirty, diseased or aggressive in nature. In fact, most of what you've heard about domesticated or wild rats is most likely false. Rats are:
EXTREMELY AFFECTIONATE animals, who often develop an intense connection to their owner. Your rat will see you as a member of his family and want daily attention.
VERY INTELLIGENT. Rats can be taught simple tricks and commands, which they pick up almost immediately. Rats can be taught to come on command, sit and various other tasks. Much like a dog or cat, rats can be taught to interact and play with humans, too.
CLEAN. Rats spend large amounts of time cleaning themselves. They not only want themselves to be clean, but also require their living space to be equally as immaculate.
SOCIAL RODENTS. Rats live in groups in the wild and therefore, naturally love to socialize.
HOW MANY RATS SHOULD YOU HAVE?
Rats are extremely sociable and therefore, get bored easily when left to their own devices. Most veterinarians and rat handlers will advise you to adopt at least two rats at a time. Ultimately, it's best to adopt two rats of the same age, so they can get used to each other and you during the same time period. The only condition under which rats should be kept as a solo pet, is if they're overly aggressive.
RAT HOUSING
Rats can be housed in wire cages or aquariums which have been fitted with a wire or mesh top screen. Rats are active rodents, so it's most important that you provide adequate space for your new pet. The larger living area you give your animal, the happier he will be. Also, since rats are clean animals, they are happiest when their living environment is cleaned on a regular basis. Cages should be cleaned every 3 days and waste matter should be removed daily.
BEDDING
Bedding is the material you'll use to line the cage for your rat. Bedding will be used as a comfort measure for your pet and also, a litter. Appropriate rat beddings include shredded papers and clothing. Never use wood shavings for rats. While wood shavings are an effective bedding material for other rodents, they tend to irritate a rat's sensitive lungs and can cause serious heart problems.
FEEDING
Rats should be provided with clean, fresh water (via a drip bottle) each day. Rats are scavengers and will eat almost anything. Table scraps, vegetables, fruits, cooked red meats, bones, eggs, cereals and breads are favored rat foods. Many pet owners provide their rat with "treats." Adding honey or watered down juice to a water bottle provides a nice change of pace.
FREE TIME
Rats can be allowed out of the cages daily to roam your living space. Providing adequate exercise to your rat is important! Be certain to pet-proof your home (as you would for a kitten or puppy) prior to letting your rat free. Rats will chew on electrical cords, plants, wood baseboards and shoelaces. Before allowing your rat out to roam, it's important to close windows and doors leading outside, as well. Also note: some male rats mark their territory, so it's wise to throw a blanket or sheet over furniture and carpet areas.
TOYS
Rats that are kept busy are less likely to chew or become destructive. Approved rat play items include pipes, large open-ended glass jars, cardboard boxes, material, pockets, and wheels.
HEALTH CONCERNS
Rats are prone to some conditions and diseases including bacterial lung infections, bloody noses, ear infections, brain tumors, bronchitis, pneumonia, and bacterial skin infections.
NEVER PICK a rat up by the tail. You may see this done in pet stores, but it's never advised for rat owners. Always lift your rat under its chest with one hand, and use your other hand to support the hind leg area.
NEVER allow your rat outdoors to play.
NEVER leave your rat unattended for long periods of time.
NEVER use wood shavings as rat bedding.
The average lifespan of the rat is 2-4 years.
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