Choosing Your Rats

When you're absolutely sure that rats are the right pets for you, then you can set about deciding on which rats you would like. I say rats, because I would always recommend getting at least two. Rats are highly sociable animals and really do fare better with a cage-mate to keep them company. Naturally, they should be of the same sex (otherwise you'll have babies galore) and preferably from the same litter. A pair of brothers or sisters are ideal. If they are to be your first rats, I would recommend babies or very young rats. Although the older rats are wonderful companions, they may need specialist care or nursing, which the first time owner may find difficult.

There are a number of places where you could find your rats, and you really should take time to check out the various options in your area. If these are your first rats, then local pet shops are probably the first place you will look. I have to say here that I have very little faith in the vast majority of pet shops, and few have good knowledge of the animals they sell. However, this is not true of all pet shops. Breeders will sell off any of their litters that don't come up to show standard and, as a general rule, they will have more knowledge of their rats. Again, there are good breeders and bad breeders. If you decide that a pet shop or local breeder is your best option, try to speak to other people who have taken rats from them. A local rescue centre may also have a number of rats that need rehoming, but very often they only have adults.

The basic rules are the same. Always look at the environment the rats are kept in. Are they overcrowded? Are the conditions clean and comfortable? Are the girls separate from the boys? Very important this one, or you could end up with a pregnant young female, and this happens all too often (especially in pet shops) How old are the rats, and are they old enough to be separated from their mother?

Look for healthy, well socialized rats. Young rats particularly, should be inquisitive and active, but you need to remember that they are not in ideal conditions and are bound to be a little nervous. Signs of ill health include: red staining around the eyes and nose (this is a natural secretion called porphyrin, which usually indicates something is not quite right), wheezing or sneezing (which could indicate a respiratory infection), a sticking out coat or hunched posture, or a general look of lethargy. If you see any of these signs, report them to the proprietor or breeder. If you are really concerned about the general conditions or condition of the rats - report them to the authorities!

So - boys or girls? Check out the link, but as a very general rule ... girls are more active throughout their lives, while boys will tend to be lazier and less active. Of course, all rats are different, and I've had both. I have found that the rule is pretty accurate.

I hope this gives you some idea of what to look for, but please contact me if you have any questions or worries.

Look at the environment the rats are kept in.

• Is it overcrowded?

• Are the girls and boys separated?

• Are conditions clean and healthy?

Take a good look at the rats

• Are they well handled and socialised?

• Young rats, particularly, should be inquisitive and playful, not lethargic and overly nervous.

• Look for signs of ill health, e.g. red porphyrin around eyes or nose, hunched posture and staring coat.

• Gently feel for any lumps, which may be tumours, and check for scabs and bald patches.

• Are they old enough to leave their mother?