How to look after rats

Rats are super smart and social animals – which makes them great pets! Though some think they’re dirty and dangerous, they’re actually very clean animals (grooming is part of their daily routine) and they can build close connections with their owners & each other. Here’s how to look after their welfare.

Did you know?

Rats usually live for around 2 to 3 years in captivity!

Home

A large cage with narrow bars will give your rats fresh air and space. Check it has a solid floor – wire mesh can make a rat’s paws sore!

Fill your cage with shelters, hammocks and tubes. Rats feel safe in snug spaces.

Avoid sawdust and line the cage with aspen-free wood chips or shredded filter paper. It’s worth keeping extra shredded paper or hay on hand as rats like building their own cosy beds!

Food

Feed rats special pellets or nuggets made just for them. Don’t give them more than the packet says!

Rats love to snack on healthy fruit and veg (avoid onion, citrus fruits, rhubarb and grapes). Pieces of cooked egg, beans, chickpeas and seeds make protein-packed treats.

Use bottles not bowls for water – rinse and refill them every day and check for blocks and leaks.

Natural behaviour

Rats are great climbers. Toys like rope ladders provide hours of fun!

A tray of shredded paper or compost is perfect for digging. Rats love to keep their paws busy.

Rats are naturally curious, so give them time out of their cage to explore. An hour or so a day is ideal. Block any gaps that they could wriggle through, and keep a close eye on them.

Cleaning tip!

At dusk or dawn, place your rats in a cosy carrier with some old bedding. Change dirty bedding and wipe the cage down with some animal-friendly cleaner. Rats have an amazing sense of smell, so avoid scented soap

Company

Rats love to spend time with other rats, so adopt at least two of the same sex.

Once they get to know you, they’ll love your company. To pick up a rat safely, gently support their tummy before lifting. Teach them simple tricks, such as ‘spin’ or ‘hi-5!’ and reward them with healthy treats!

Rats sleep during the day, so feed and handle them in the morning and evening. House them somewhere social, as rats love people, but don’t disturb them during the day.

Health

To keep your rats’ teeth from growing too long, give them coconut shells and wooden toys to gnaw.

To reduce stress, keep rats in a quiet, familiar space, with plenty of hiding places.

Rats can’t tell us when they feel poorly. Spending time with your rats will help you spot behaviour changes, like eating less. When you hold them, check for lumps and bumps. If you’re concerned, us vets are here to help!