Rats are not on most people’s list of potential pets. But longtime rat owners George W. and Debbie E. of Seattle  say, “We can honestly say that having pet rats is every bit as rewarding as owning a cat or a dog.” They say rats are cute, intelligent, curious, and very social. The key to living happily with them, as with most pets, is to show them love.

They also need lots of space (including some safe space outside their cage), playtime with their owner, and other rats. If you have a room in your home that can be rat-proofed, this will let them follow their urge to explore. (Rats in the wild sometimes can range up to six miles a day.) Set aside an hour a day to spend with them. And don’t plan on keeping just one rat – they can get depressed when solitary.

It goes without saying that, if you own both males and females, they should be spayed and neutered.

There are definite personality differences between males and females. While males are less active and more cuddly, making them easier to care for, they have a stronger scent. They’re also more prone to mark their territory — more smells, in other words.

There are difficulties in owning rats, of course. People may think they’re dangerous, or just be put off by them. Rats like to chew — you’ll have to watch them around your leather couch, for example –  and may even carry small objects away to enjoy in private. Their natural lifespan is short, only two to three years, so you’ll probably find yourself saying goodbye to them too soon.

Next time, we’ll go into more detail about the kind of environment pet rats need — food, toys, and litter. We’ll also talk about the best way to find a pet rat. (No, it’s not setting a trap out by the garbage cans in the alley.) Meanwhile, you may want to check out The Rat Fan Club and The Dapper Rat.