Rats!

I thought I should throw up this section as there are a lot of people who would like to know about keeping rats, and also, because there are a lot more who wouldn't even dream of doing so!

Why Keep Pet Rats?

Contrary to popular belief they are remarkably clean and intelligent animals and they LOVE human company.

They are also relatively inexpensive to look after, and can provide hours of enjoyment for children and adults alike.

Which should I keep, male or female?
That is a question you should ask first - because they are very different in character. Male rats are rather docile, preferring to remain as inactive as possible, whilst females are much more lively. I have only ever kept female rats, so cannot give you first-hand accounts of keeping males, but from all accounts I have read, this difference is clear. (Although exceptions to this rule can occur)

So if you want rats that you can handle quietly (or even allow them to snuggle on your shoulder!) then go for boys, if you want to have rats that actually do things and entertain you, it's girl rats for you.

How many should I keep?
This is another vital thing to think about. Rats do not like solitude at all! They are social animals and although you may think you could be friends with a sole one and make up for it, it will not be the case. Whilst you sleep, your rat will more than likely be up and about, and getting very bored and unhappy. At least two should be housed together - I have found the perfect number to be three.

Why three?
Rats have a hierarchy in any colony - you will have an alpha rat, a deputy and the rest. To my thinking three is the ideal number because it satisfies this social structure, and it isn't too many to look after!