This pet rat care guide is your go-to resource for raising a happy and healthy rat. Contrary to popular belief, pet rats are intelligent, affectionate, and highly social. With the right care, they form strong bonds with their owners and love to explore and play. When properly housed and fed, pet rats typically live between 2 and 3 years.

Social, curious, and full of energy

• Rats are highly social and thrive when kept in same-sex pairs or groups
• They’re most active in the evening but can adapt to household routines
• Daily supervised playtime in a secure room is essential

⚠️ Be mindful of:

• Electrical cords
• Toxic plants or unsafe foods
• Small objects — rats are clever thieves and love to stash things in their cage!

The ideal habitat

Rats are excellent climbers and need a multi-level cage equipped with:

• Platforms, hammocks, tunnels, and hiding spots
• Chew toys or safe branches (e.g., apple or oak wood)

✅ Best bedding options:

• Hemp
• Flax
• Recycled paper

❌ Avoid pine, cedar, or other softwood shavings — they release harmful phenols that can damage the lungs

A balanced diet

Rats are omnivores and need a varied, well-balanced diet:

• Core diet: high-quality rat pellets rich in protein and fiber
• Occasional supplements (in small amounts):
  • Vegetables and fruit
  • Cooked egg or lean meat

⚠️ Avoid:

• Sugary, salty, or fatty foods
• Seed mixes (rats may pick and choose, causing nutritional imbalance)

👩‍🍼 For pregnant females: increase protein intake (e.g., high-quality cat or dog kibble)

Socialization and group introductions

• Quarantine new arrivals for at least 2 weeks
• Introduce rats gradually, in a neutral space
• Thoroughly clean the main cage before cohabitation to reduce territorial behavior

Reproduction

• Sexual maturity: 6 to 10 weeks
• Gestation: 20 to 23 days
• Litter size: 6 to 12 pups (up to 18)
• Postpartum fertility: returns 24 hours after giving birth
• Weaning: starts at 3 weeks, ideally separated at 5–6 weeks

Common health concerns

Pet rats can develop several health issues that require attention:

• Mammary tumors (common in females, possible in males)
• Respiratory infections (affect up to 38% of pet rats)
• Ear infections, obesity, parasites
• Kidney disease

💡 Regular vet checkups are key to early detection and prevention.

With a stimulating environment, nutritious diet, and proper socialization, your rat can thrive. Intelligent, playful, and loyal, rats make surprisingly delightful pets for owners willing to give them the care they deserve.