Rats as companions

If you are considering sharing your life with rats there are a number of questions you might wish to answer before your make your decision.

Who?

  • Find out about rats themselves, their natural behaviours and characteristics.
  • Look into the social world of the rat and how many you may wish to keep.
  • Consider gender traits and work out whether boys (bucks) or girls (does) would suit you best.

    • What?

  • What cage?
  • What cage furniture and enrichment?
  • What cage litter and bedding?
  • What diet?
  • What carrier?
  • What health aids?

    • Where?

  • Find out why pet shops are not a good source of rats.
  • Consider rats in rescue.
  • Understand the advantages of getting rats from a responsible breeder.
  • The qualities and characteristics of Shunamite rats.
  • Where will you keep your rats once they arrive home - environmental considerations.

    • When?

  • Plan ahead - important time considerations.

    • Why?

  • Why rats? Find out what to expect if you decide to get rats as companions.