Choosing a Rat

Introduction
 You can buy Rats from most Pet Stores or from a breeder. You could also go to your nearest rescue centre for you Rats but these may have problems/take more work to handle as they will have been abused or rejected.

It is a good idea to buy them young as they will respond better and learn quickly. Although you can teach an old rat new tricks!

Always ask to hold the Rat so you can see how it reacts and check it over. If they say No then go to the next shop because they will probably be something wrong.

Never ever buy one rat - buy two or more.


Male or Female
 There isn't a quick answer but I have put the pros and cons below so you can decide. Both genders make amazing pets:

  • Male Rats
     -More likely to sit on your lap/shoulder for a cuddle.
    -They are great for younger children to have as pets, as they don't rush about as quickly and in that sense are easier for kids to handle.
    -Male Rats are bigger
    -Can you handle their balls! Seriously though, some people find it hard to see a male rat's quite obtrusive features!
    -Male rats are territorial - they will pee on things a lot more often than females.
    -Male rats are more likely to fight


  • Female Rats
     -More likely to run around and explore - although will cuddle as well.
    -As they are more active they are usually better for trainning
    -Are smaller than Males
    -Can be territorial. They do pee on things!
    -More prone to tumours in later life


    • Both are equally intelligent and wonderful and either make great pets.




    What to look for:
  • Bright eyes

  • A clean, shiny coat with no hairloss (unless it is a hairless rat!)

  • A clean tail with no scabby or bent areas - The tail is bone so if it breaks this will cause the Rat ALOT of problems.

  • There should be no wounds or discharge.

  • It should be alert and active, and not too scared when you hold it (as this can also show illness) - although remember that Rats do have different personalities and some will be more outgoing than others.

  • Find out (and check if you can!) what sex it is - you don't want a boy and a girl (and 18 babies two weeks later!)

  • You should be able to hear NO weezing, sneezing, sniffling, rasping breath as these are signs of illness. But if you hear a teeth grinding sound this is called bruxing and means the Rat is content.


    • Make sure you like the Rats you are buying and that you're not just getting them becuase you need to - you can wait until the right one comes along!


    Congratulations!
     You will now be given your Rats to take home. Make sure their journey is not too longor distressing. Give them a nice quiet ride.