*Rats require fresh water at all times, from a bottle, bowl, or both. Their water should be changed daily, the bottle/bowl cleaned regularly, to help ensure health.
Diet should primarily consist of rat “block”, of a quality brand. 'Scatter feeding', which is to sprinkle food around the bottom of the cage, is often preferred over a bowl. Scatter feeding provides rats with the opportunity to forage for their food. This is an activity they would spend much of their time doing in the wild. This activity is good for brain stimulation and encourages our furry friends to exercise.
Rats are omnivorous, so they can enjoy a variety of meat, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables, in moderation. They tend to be cautious feeders and may avoid new foods while getting to know new owners.
Only limited amounts of seeds and other fatty foods, should be provided as treats.
*Rats are very social and should always be kept in pairs at a minimum. Human socialization is wonderful and very important, however, rats need the company of their own kind as well. It is therefore unfair to keep one on its own. To avoid babies, the best option is usually a pair, (or group) of the same sex. Rats breed frequently, and can as early as four- five weeks old,
*Rats, unlike some other rodents, are smart and playful animals that crave human companionship. They're also (contrary to myth) very clean. They enjoy play and can even learn tricks. Because rats are very intelligent they need to be challenged, so rotate their toys on a regular basis to avoid boredom.
Rats love to climb and will make good use of ladders, ropes, hammocks, tunnels, and platforms. Provide enrichment items like blocks of wood for chewing, cardboard tubes, and toys designed for parrots. Rats need at least an hour of exercise outside the cage every day, in a rat-proofed area, to explore, climb, and play.
*Rats make wonderful companions for children and adults. Unlike other pocket pets like hamsters, rats rarely bite. They are also sturdier than other rodents. Rats need larger cages than smaller rodents but, because they are larger, they are easier to handle. They bond emotionally with cage mates and owners. However, it is important that everyone in the family is prepared for the responsibilities of keeping rats as pets. While they make great family pets, they should not be looked after or handled by unsupervised children. As with all children’s pets, it is important that an adult is responsible for making sure the rats receive the attention and care needed.
​
*Despite the temptation you'll feel to handle your rats right away, it's best to let them settle in for the first few days if your new friends seem nervous, (which is natural.) During this time your rats are getting used to their new cage, their surroundings, and all the strange smells.
Sneezing during this time is really fairly common, often referred to as 'new house sniffles', and can last around a week or so.
*Bring your rats to your vet for annual check-ups. Don’t wait if you think one of your rats is sick—seek help immediately. Common signs that may indicate illness include sneezing, lethargy, weight loss, dull eyes, excessive porphyrin, open wounds, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.
*A few exotic vets in the area include
Eastside Vet Clinic (864)542-6404
Health Point Vet (864)486-8177
Electric City Animal Clinic (864)225-0015
Roper Mountain Animal Clinic (864)297-9190
Please be sure to always do your own research on caring for your pet. This is meant to be a basic guide, but there is always more to be learned on how to keep your pet healthy and happy.
Thank you
We have a great new website for you to explore! Please come check us out at https://tinytoesandtailsra.wixsite.com/rattery