How to Care for a Pet Rat

From big city apartments to country homes, the sight of a rat will typically send people screaming from the room. Why then, do so many people choose to have these creatures as pets? Well, for starters, they’re relatively low maintenance and certainly highly entertaining. Check the steps below to see if you’re up to the task of caring for a pet rat.

Step 1: Decide where you will obtain your rat. There are such things as rat breeders and rat rescues, or you can always find a rat at a pet store. Make sure the rat you choose does not show signs of lethargy and has a clear nose and clear eyes.

Step 2: Set up house. The cage you buy for your rat should be big enough for him to play, jump and climb in. The cage should not have wire flooring. Many first time rat owners don’t realize the importance of a solid floor for their pet.

Step 3: Location, location, location. Choose a place in the home that is not near a window, does not get too much sunlight and doesn’t receive a draft. Although a lot of people like to put a rat in their child’s bedroom, sometimes the rat doesn’t receive enough attention in that location. Consider putting him a playroom or family room where everyone can enjoy his company.

Step 4: Accessorize the cage. You will need toys for the rat to play with and to keep him entertained. You will also need water and food dishes that can be attached to the cage.

Step 5: Make sleeping arrangements. A rat needs something more comfortable than wood shavings to lay his head at night. You might want to purchase a soft cloth for him to sleep on. Don’t spend a lot of money on this item, as it might need to be replaced every now and then.

Step 6: Plan your rat’s menu. A rat should not receive too much protein and fat, so be careful about the rat "blocks" that are sold as food. You might want to find a balance between prepared rat food and frozen fruits for your rat.

Step 7: Clean house regularly. A rat can make a big mess, and if he walks in his urine and feces, it can cause bumblefoot. Bumblefoot is painful to rats and can cost you money at the veterinarian.

Step 8: Plan for playtime. This is perhaps the most important thing to remember when caring for a rat. They need to be played with every day.

Visit pet-super-store for more great information and pet supplies especially pet crates.