Quick answers for frequently asked questions. In-depth answers are available on the specific related pages of this site.

Rats in General

Rat Health

Rat Accessories

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Rats in General

1. Can rats live alone?
2. Do rats smell?
3. Should I get a girl or a boy?
4. How long do pet rats live?
5. Where can I get a pet rat?
6. If I get a pair of rats, won't they bond to each other instead of to me?
7. Can I train my rats to use a litter box?

1. Can rats live alone?
   Technically, rats can live alone. However, rats are very social creatures and it is highly recommended that they be kept in groups of at least two. Once in awhile, a rat simply won't get along with any other rats and must live alone (with plenty of attention from you) but this is basically a last resort. Here is some recommended reading on the subject.

2. Do rats smell?
   Like any living creature, rats do have a smell. However, as animals go, the ratty smell is a relatively subtle and inoffensive one. Their musky scent is even enjoyable! If your rats are starting to stink, it probably means their cage needs to be cleaned more often. But, if the funk is pretty bad and coming from one particular part of a rat it can be a sign that infection or an abcess is present.

3. Should I get a girl or a boy?
   Both male rats (bucks) and female rats (does) make great pets! In general, bucks tend to be larger and lazier, while does tend to be smaller and more active. Of course, these are only generalizations. Do plenty of research (start with our About page) to decide which you think may be best for you. Or, get both. Just make sure they're housed securely and seperately as they can and will mate in an instant--even between cage bars.

4. How long do pet rats live?
   Pet rats live for about 2-3 years. Several factors can impact how long they live, such as health--both their genetics and how well taken care of they are-- as well as their diet, living conditions, and even how much love and affection they are given.

5. Where can I get a pet rat?
   You can get a pet rat from a breeder or a pet store, or as a rescue from a shelter, other rescue organization, or individual. See our Acquiring page for more information.

6. If I get a pair of rats, won't they bond to each other instead of to me?
   Nope.

7. Can I train my rats to use a litter box?
   Probably. Most rats take to it pretty quickly--just put a litterbox filled with different litter than is used in the rest of their cage in one corner (if they seem to use one corner more than the others, pick that corner). Scatter a few raisins in it. They'll probably pick it up all on their own. However, this pretty much applies just to the raisins. Whiz is another story.

Rat Health

1. Why is my rat sneezing?
2. My rat has red stuff on his nose and eyes. Is he bleeding?

1. Why is my rat sneezing?
   There are several things that could be causing your rat to sneeze. If you have just gotten the rat, or just moved, it is common for rats to sneeze for a few days as they settle in after the stress of the move. Or, your rat could be sneezing due to an irritant such as dust, possibly from his litter. Sneezing can also be a sign that your rat is sick. If your rat is sneezing because he's sick, he will need to be treated right away. Learn more about sneezing, what can cause it, and what to do about it on our Health page.

2. My rat has red stuff on his nose and eyes. Is he bleeding?
   Most likely, no. Ratty eye and nasal mucus is tinted red and looks a lot like blood. The red tint is called porphyrin and the mucus itself is often referred to as porphyrin. Porphyrin on your rat could mean that he's a bit stressed out or that there's something in his environment irritating him, such as dusty litter, or it could be an indication of illness.

Rat Accessories

1. Should I get a wheel for my rat?

1. Should I get a wheel for my rat?
   Rats can enjoy exercise wheels, but you'll have to shop around to find one that is appropriate for them. The wheel will have to be big enough to comfortably fit the rat, and it should be solid to avoid trapping the rat's tail. The Wodent Wheel is a popular one.

   Many people find that adult rats introduced to wheels don't care for them, but rats who have had them since youth often develop a lifelong love for them.

 

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