Pet rats

Fancy rats have lots of heart and make wonderful pets

What kind of rat should I get?

Have you been hearing a lot about fancy rats? Are you thinking about getting a rat for a pet? While they are very popular pets today, your friends may still be surprised to hear that you are thinking about getting a pet rat. However, the fancy rat is a wonderful pet choice and has been bred for human companionship for hundreds of years.

In this article, you will find some basic things that you should know about fancy rats, before you decide to get one. As with selecting any other pet, you should also ask the breeder or rescue if you can interact with some rats and get a feel for which you prefer.

What are fancy rats?

The term fancy rat is another name for the domestic rat. Domestic rats are not the same as wild rats, just like domestic dogs are not the same as wolves. For hundreds of years, rats have been bred to be sweet, submissive and affectionate pets. Domesticated pet rats are incredibly intelligent and quirky- making them entertaining for both adults and children.

Rats can be very inexpensive to care for

Fancy rats are able to understand behaviors, reward systems, and even parts of the human language. They learn their names and can easily learn about what is going on around them and what to expect.

The wonderful world of rat ownership awaits you, and it all begins with your first fancy rats!

Why get a rat?

Rats form bonds easily and make great pets for both children and adults. They are particularly good pets for people who have limited space and/or busy lifestyles. While they are a serious responsibility, fancy rats are reasonably easy to keep happy and healthy. Because they are nocturnal animals, they are happy to sleep during the day while their human is at work or school; then they are ready to come out to play in the morning or evening. You can satisfy your rat’s needs for attention as long as you can spend at least 1/2 to 1 hour a day together.

Fancy rats are people-lovers and they enjoy being held and played with. Rats are exceptionally intelligent, clean animals; many can even be trained to use the litter box. The basic needs for pet rats are not very expensive, and you can use all sorts of materials to create their homes, toys, and jungle gyms yourself. They are also able to eat many of the foods we eat, such as meats, vegetables, grains, and fruits. Therefore, you can feed them a little bit of your own cooking when you have extra available.

Choosing a pet rat

Rats are very social and they should have at least one cage mate

Buy your new rat as part of a pair. If you want a happy rat, make sure to get a buddy. Fancy rats are very social animals and they need to have at least one cage mate. Because rats are intelligent, they are prone to boredom and listlessness if they are isolated. It is not uncommon for a healthy rat to become depressed and suffer illness when living without another rat. The two rats will spend their time playing, grooming one another and cuddling. In addition to making for happy pets, this will also serve as fun for you, because these small creatures are full of personality.

“It is not uncommon for a healthy rat to become depressed and suffer illness when living without another rat.”

Playtime with pet rats is entertaining for children and adults

Male and female rats. Because of their nature, both male and female rats make great pets. However, it is good to know that there are differences in the overall personality traits of fancy rats, based on their gender.

The descriptions below are simply generalizations, the actual temperament of your rat will depend on much more than it’s sex; but the following details will help you to have a starting point as you consider what type of rat you should get.

“Bucks are male rats and does are females”

*IMPORTANT* - Unless you are adopting rats that have been neutered or spayed, it is important that you properly identify the sex of your rats in order to avoid accidental litters. Rats can reach sexual maturity as early as 5 weeks old and the average litter size is 10-12 rats. Also, rats have no concept of incest and does will go into heat every 4 days that they are not pregnant. It is very easy to determine the sex of your rat: only females have nipples and males have large testicles.

- Breeders will encourage new owners to take two or more rats of the same gender from the same litter for starters.

The average litter of rats is 12 pups

Bucks - Male rats, bucks are often mellow and cuddly, with the ideal personality for laying around. Bucks tend to bond easily with their humans and they are often outwardly affectionate, many times following their human around the house. If you’re looking for a lap pet, the buck may be right for you, as they seem to be more reliant on their humans and less independent than female rats.

Marking - Most unaltered males tend to leave urine trails when they are out

playing. Many owners will have a blanket or towel to throw on the furniture

or floor when playing with their rats because of this.    

Neutered bucks - Male rats who are neutered are less likely to display

Aggressive behavior towards other rats or initiate a conflict. Neutered male

rats are also half as likely to be attacked by intact male rats. Neutering can

either significantly reduce or completely eliminate scent marking behavior.

An altered buck's coat is also smoother and less coarse. Male rats are sterile

three weeks following a neuter surgery.

- Neutered bucks can live peacefully with a male or female cage mate 

There are lots of rats that need to be adopted

Does- A female rat is called a doe. Does are independent, inquisitive and adventurous. They are always on the go and they like to do their own thing. A doe will enjoy using your body like a climbing frame, sitting on your shoulder and exploring everything on your desk. If you are looking for an entertaining pet, you should consider a doe.

Adventures - Does are quite clever and they like to be busy, so they are often responsive to learning tricks. If you give your doe free-range of your home, you should expect that she will steal treasures and hide them in one of her many “secret stashes”.  

Spayed does - Female rats who are spayed have a reduced chance of developing tumors; this is a massive health benefit for female rats. Before being spayed female rats go into heat every four days, and during this time they can be excitable, frantic, grumpy or have other changes in their personality. It is an ideal time for female rats to be spayed between 3-6 months. Female rats are sterile immediately after being spayed.

- Although the doe is less needy than the buck, she is still an affectionate pet; she simply will show affection on her way to the next great adventure.

So, you need 2 rats and you know a buck from a doe…..

Where do you get pet rats?

Rats come in such a variety of looks and personalities

Rescues and shelters - Adopting a rat from a rescue or local shelter is not only a charitable gesture but you can also find great rats. There are unfortunately many rats looking for homes out there, usually at no fault of their own. The rats at the shelter will be spayed or neutered before adoption. Giving some of these rats a permanent home can not only be a gift to the rats but also be incredibly rewarding.

Breeders - This is often the safest way to get your rat. Responsible breeders will only mate their best rats. They look for health, body shape, affection and outgoing personalities; you will also be able to choose breed and color markings. Fine bred rats will be yours at about five weeks old and they will have a strong start in life. Be selective about who you contact and email or phone them with a tailored list of questions.

-Breeders often come across unwanted rats. They may be able to guide you through the adoption process.

Pet stores - Pet stores are easy and convenient. And some of them are informed and do buy pet rats from responsible local families who carefully raise their critters. However, many stores sell these rats as food also and so the rats may not get the human interaction they require to be good pets. In the end, most rats will flourish with your love and patience. You can't change their past, but you can make a huge difference in their future.

Let Us Know….

If you found this article helpful, please share your rat story with us.

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What pet should I get? -

Choosing the right pet

Pet ownership can offer real satisfaction to an individual or a family. However, choosing the right pet makes a big difference as to how satisfied you may feel. We would like to help you choose a pet and have a smooth transition. So we have put together 5 important things to keep in mind when you are considering a pet.

These tips are appropriate for you whether you choose to buy or adopt your pet.            

In the United States, some popular pets are cats, dogs, rats, fish and birds. Each of these animals has the ability to bring joy to the right family. Please continue reading to help you decide if one of these might be right for your family.

5 things that you should do before making a commitment to any pet:

Dogs are loyal and loving

1. Take your time. Don’t make a pet an impulse purchase. No matter how cute the animal or how inspiring their story may be. Pet stores, shelters and rescues all have a built-in bias, so these places are probably not the best places to seek advice on the pet that may be best suited for you. The pet you choose will become a member of your family, so you should give this decision all the thought that you would to any major purchase.

2. 

   Rats are smart, friendly and clean

   2. Research your options. If you are considering a dog, keep in mind that each breed has its own personality, needs and abilities. Do your research and make sure that you know what qualities are a good fit for your family. You should also do some research on the organization that you are considering to work with; find out about their reputation and how much support and information will they provide you with before, during and after the process. Lastly, if you are only familiar with dogs and cats, it will be beneficial for you to compare different animals that offer similar benefits; for example, rats may suit your needs if you are interested in an alternative to a dog. Click here to find out more about choosing a pet rat.

3. 

   Gazing at fish has proven health benefits

   Match your lifestyle. Do you rent an apartment in a professional building or do you have a large, private fenced yard? Will your pet be home alone for long hours or are you seeking companionship? Are you a night owl or a morning bird? There are great pets to suit different schedules, lifestyles and environments. If  you are looking to reduce stress and lower anxiety, you might consider getting fish for your home.  

4. 

   Birds can be life long companions

   Assess your needs. While it is a wonderful thing to provide a home for an animal, you also need to think about your family’s personality and what you hope to get from this new addition. Will the pet fill the empty nest? Are you hoping to have a playmate for your child? Do you hope that your pet will be independent and low maintenance? The answer to each of these questions will help lead you toward the right pet for you. If you need an animal that does well in a small living space, you may look into birds. While birds need less interaction than furry friends, they are very social, highly intelligent and can easily be taught new tricks.     
5. Consider the costs. After the initial expense, having a pet will continue to cost you both time and money. Food, bedding and toys are a few of the recurring purchases that you may have. Depending on the type of pet you choose, you may also need to budget for the groomer, vet and a pet sitter. In considering the cost, you must also remember that some pets have lifespans equivalent to humans. 

These are the basics to keep in mind when you are trying to choose the right pet. For additional support and ideas for pet owners, Follow us on Facebook

Senior pets FAQ's

Senior pets are always in need of adoptive families

Why adopt a senior pet?

While November is "adopt a senior pet month", it is always a good idea to adopt a senior pet. Senior pets are least likely to be adopted from overcrowded shelters and unfortunately, senior pets are among the first to be euthanized if they aren’t adopted in a timely manner. By adopting a senior pet, you are quite possibly saving it's life.

Adopting a pet in need is a win-win situation and getting to know the local adoptees can be lots of fun. When visiting your local shelter, please don't overlook the senior pets because they have so much to offer and the love they give you will be so rewarding. Many older pets lose their homes for reasons having nothing to do with their behavior or temperament. Some of these reasons may include death of a guardian, a new baby, a move and various other lifestyle changes. These seniors are often grateful for their new family and make wonderful household pets.

While no one can deny that puppies and kittens are super cute and playful, many potential pet owners are not really ready to have their lives totally turned upside down as they wait for their fur babies to learn the rules and mature. In the Unites States, senior pets are the least likely to be adopted, yet they have the best manners and are the least destructive.

If you are considering adoption, a senior pet might be just right for you. Here we will answer 3 FAQ’s about senior pet adoption. Please Click Here if you want to read some of the benefits of adopting senior pets.

Save a life - adopt a senior pet

3 FAQ’s about adopting senior pets

1. Q: When is a pet senior?  

A: It varies, but cats and small dogs are generally considered seniors at the age of 7. Larger breed dogs tend to have shorter life spans and are considered seniors when they are approximately 6 years of age.

2. Q: Can I get a purebred senior pet?  

A: Yes. If you really love a certain breed of dog or cat, chances are there’s a breed rescue club that can point you in the direction of older purebred pets in need of homes.

3. Q: Will an older pet cost more in vet bills?

    A: Veterinary attention and medication are needed at all ages and may or may not be

more costly for an older pet. Before you adopt a senior, be sure you get a health report

from a veterinarian. That way, if you discover that the animal has a health problem, you can decide if you are able to make the needed financial commitment before making an emotional commitment.

We hope that you can open your heart and home to a senior pet. If you do, we would love to hear your story. Please share your story with us

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Why adopt a senior pet?

Should I adopt a senior pet?

November is "adopt a senior pet month". If you are considering an animal adoption, please consider adopting a senior pet. When families visit shelters, they are often looking for young pets and unfortunately, senior pets are among the first to be euthanized if they aren’t adopted in a timely manner. By adopting a senior pet, you are not only providing it with a better life but are quite possibly saving it's life.

Adopting a pet in need is a win-win situation and getting to know the local adoptees can be lots of fun. When visiting your local shelter, please don't overlook the senior pets because they have so much to offer and the love they give you will be so rewarding.

While no one can deny that puppies and kittens are super cute and playful, many potential pet owners are not really ready to have their lives totally turned upside down as they wait for their fur babies to learn the rules and mature.

If you are considering adoption, a senior pet might be just right for you.

4 Great Reasons to Adopt a Senior Pet

1. Training - Many adult pets have spent years living with a family and being socialized to life with humans. They are likely to understand basic commands and adjust easily to the house rules.

2. Low energy - Older pets are relaxing to hang out with. Most older pets are well past the search-and-destroy phase. Senior pets tend to have a comforting, calm presence, they are not full of wild energy to burn and they are not terribly bored when at home alone.

3. Health History - A senior pet holds no surprises as to how big he might get, what color his adult coat will be, or whether his hips will be healthy. A senior pet comes to you with a much more predictable future than that of an 8-week old puppy or kitten.

4. Companionship - Many new owners form a close bond very quickly with their senior dog or cat, because the pet shows them a level of attention and devotion that is unique to older adopted animals. Due to their older age an slower pace, senior pets are often excellent companions for senior humans.

For more tips on pet adoption and pet care, visit us at www.facebook.com/ahbsitters