Site hosted by Angelfire.com: Build your free website today!

RATTS???

If you have adopted rats, you have heard that question before I'm sure. "And you want them in your house???" Hearing that doesn't even phase me anymore. I just take them out right in front of the visitors and show how they will kiss me on the nose. If this doesn't win them over, they run out of the house and I never see them again. Oh well, I guess that's life. You win some, You lose some.

What are rats? Rats are rodents (rattus norvegicus). Their origins are in Asia. Domesticated rats (those we keep as pets) are very different from rats that live in the wild. These rat pages are dedicated to out pets, NOT wild rats, or any other rodents or pets. A domesticated rat does not have the survical skills of the wild and cannot live in that environment. Pet rats are friendly, much more clean, and come in a variety of fur textures, colors and shadings. These textures and colors will be discussed later.

Rats make wonderful pets, for people of all ages. Rats are reasonably easy to get, very intelligent, social, inexpensive to care for, and small (which makes them a great choice for small apartments or houses). Rats are very unlikely to bite.

There are things I must ask you to consider before running out and getting your new rattie. As with any pet, certain responsibilities come with being a rat(s) caretaker. Rats need a lot of time and attention. The cage must be kept clean. Food and water must be provided. Also, children must be taught how to handle these sensitive little pets.

Now for the sexes and such. A buck is a male rat. A female is called a doe. A newborn baby whose eyes are open (up to 8 weeks) is called a kitten.

How Do I Choose My New Rat?

Now that we have names straight, should you choose a doe or a buck? Well, the first question we should ask ourselves is: Which one would I rather have? They both have desirable qualities. Multiple male or female rats (not both unless you are breeding) can live together in harmony if properly introduced. You should normally begin with only one sex though, to become more acquainted with the rat species before an unexpected pregnancy occurs.

Does: Tend to be: smaller faster more active generally more curious and destructive

fur is sleeker and softer appear to be more intelligent

Bucks: Tend to be: stronger smelling nearly twice as large calmer

also, skin secrets an oily substance that makes fur greasy

One more thing you should consider. I will say this lightly, but I think you will all know what I am referring to in the next sentence. A major reason people prefer female rats to male rats is because the sex of the male rat is very obvious. Many people find this distasteful or embarrassing. If you are one of these people, then by all means, get yourself a female rat who you can enjoy fully.

Scurry Back To The Rats Nest

And This Little Piggy Ran All The Way Home -- Back To Daphne's Domain