Read more on my blog Pets of All Kinds
I never thought I'd ever have rats as pets but I have.
Previously I'd thought of rats as rodent pests, dirty even dangerous creatures. The media image of a rats has not been good. They are historically nearly always associated with something bad and it's even an insult to be compared to a rat.
But I've found the opposite is true. Modern rats are nice, fun loving and friendly creatures when you get to know them. Nowadays if someone calls me a rat I tend to think of it as a compliment.
Rats are among the easiest pets to have and they really are great fun. They are very clean, sociable, playful, intelligent and affectionate. They can be taught tricks and get to know their names. They can also be litter box trained.
Young rats are a real delight to watch as they play , just like kittens.
I have three male rats - Ratwah and Cheeky, both white albinos,and Stewart, a handsome brown and white guy who always reminds me of a horse I knew.
White albinos are usually more gentle and docile than other rats but their eyesight is poor.
My three 'ratateers' are very friendly and even play with our dogs and cats. They love being cuddled and resting on your neck or inside your jumper or jacket. They are very affectionate and often come and give you a kiss. It's so sweet. The other morning Ratwah decided to share his breakfast with me. Instead of a kiss I got a piece of biscuit.
As with most other pets, it's best to do some research before you buy rats. There's tips you can get so you don't end up with a sick or pregnant rat. I use to think that rats were very strong creatures but in fact they are susceptible to various illnesses, like lung infections. So you need to know something about the scene before you buy. Not all pet shops can be trusted.
I recommend research before purchase. Better to be prepared and that way you and the rats will have a happy life togeth
- Related Videos
- Related Articles
- Ask / Related Q&A
Dog Kennels Provide Your Pet Shelter
By: michaelrussell | 25/11/2009The purpose of dog kennels is to protect your pet from the harm that may happen if they are allowed to run free. Kennels allow a pet to have access to the outdoors without running free. Kennels are not cages but rather areas for your dog to be safe outdoors.
Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders - A Few Tips
By: sunarsih | 25/11/2009You must be tired of the squirrels in your backyard that try to get something from the bird feeders you have put there for the birds visiting your backyard but with the squirrel proof, you can be sure they will not disturb you anymore. Bird feeders squirrel proof are meant to keep the squirrels and other animals you don't want away and they come in various types.
A Dog Kennel Can Give Your Pet Their Own Place Outdoors
By: michaelrussell | 25/11/2009You love your dog and understand the importance of them getting the proper amount of exercise, however you may not have a fence around the yard or you may prefer that do not have the run of the entire yard. For these situations a dog kennel comes in very handy. A kennel is a great way to provide the dog with an area to play without needing to give them the run of the entire yard.
Dog behavior training
By: Arnel Saguban | 25/11/2009You may wonder what is the difference between an ordinary training of a dog and training for a better behavior. Means of training a dog accustomed to come to you when you call, when to sit down and tell you like.
Taking Care of a Ferret: Baby Ferret or Kits
By: Michael Weston | 25/11/2009So you want a ferret and have decided on a baby or as they are known in the ferret world as kits. Since you are looking at a baby ferret then you may want to know about the entire ferret birth process. The female ferret is referred to as a "jill"...
Wire Dog Crates Can Be Beneficial Both You And Your Dog
By: michaelrussell | 25/11/2009They are more than just an animal they are part of the family and when you have to leave him alone it breaks your heart. However it's a simple fact that there are times when it is just not practical for them you travel with you. In these times it is a good idea to have a space for the dog to consider their own. Wire dog crates are an excellent way to maintain a dog and provide them with a safe space during those times they need to remain alone at home.
Wire Dog Crates Can Be Beneficial Both You And Your Dog
By: michaelrussell | 25/11/2009They are more than just an animal they are part of the family and when you have to leave him alone it breaks your heart. However it's a simple fact that there are times when it is just not practical for them you travel with you. In these times it is a good idea to have a space for the dog to consider their own. Wire dog crates are an excellent way to maintain a dog and provide them with a safe space during those times they need to remain alone at home.
Learn How to Properly Train Your Cat - Cat Training Tips
By: Bryan Burbank | 25/11/2009It is important that you train your cat properly because they are unlike most animals. Dogs and cats are very different and training them is different as well. They have very different personalities and you need to understand that cats are just more independent.
Government Parasite Taxes on Pets
By: James Larkin | 08/11/2009 | PetsThe worst pet parasites are political ones.Government taxes dogs and soon it will be cats. What next?
Pet Mice a Must
By: James Larkin | 06/10/2009 | PetsLet a mouse in your house.
Even Aliens Count Their Calories
By: James Larkin | 29/09/2009 | Weight LossHumans eat an amazing variety of food. Even an alien from another planet might be surprised.
DIY Electric Cars Still Best Bet
By: James Larkin | 06/09/2009 | AutomotiveElectric cars are rolling on to the world market at last but because they carry a high charge DIY is still better.
German Shepherd Dogs World's Worst Biters
By: James Larkin | 05/09/2009 | PetsThey are one of the most popular dogs in the world but they are also the biggest biters in the world.
Pet Horses Popular But Pricey
By: James Larkin | 15/08/2009 | PetsHorses are heavenly creatures but the cost of keeping them can be high.
Pet Turtles Need Top Class Care
By: James Larkin | 12/08/2009 | PetsTurtles are delicate creatures and it is vital they get proper care in food and environment.
Three Ways to Save Millions of Pet Lives
By: James Larkin | 06/08/2009 | PetsEvery minute of every day 10 cats and dogs are put to death in the USA`alone. This useless killing can easily be prevented.