Understanding your pet rat

Smart, sensitive, friendly... No, this isn't a description from the personals, we're talking about your rats! If you've never had the pleasure of owning a rat, your new pets may pleasantly surprise you with their intelligence and curiosity. And as you get to know them and discover what makes them tick, you'll be better able to meet their needs.

Rat intelligence and social skills

Did you that wild rats are highly social and live in large groups? That's why it's of utmost importance that you bring home at least a pair. Two or more ratties will keep each other company, which is especially nice if they're going to be left home alone all day. If at all possible, get two same-sex siblings when they are young. And note that a neutered male can also live with females, or a spayed female can live with males.

It's true that your rats love to be with their own kind, but they'll readily bond with you, too. You'll need to give each and every one of your pets some special personal attention every day. Be sure to hand tame your rats, and pretty soon your little guys will be demanding to be petted and may even initiate a cuddlefest with you. It's also important that your rats get playtime out of the cage in a safe, secure area every day.

Rat habits include lots of chewing!

Topping the list of perfectly natural, perfectly enjoyable rat behaviors is chewing. Not only does gnawing on something help to wear down your pets' continuously growing choppers, it's just plain fun! It's up to you to ensure that your rats have safe, appropriate chew toys to satisfy these urges. Should you fail to meet these requirements, don't be surprised if you find your pets chewing on your furniture or a stray electrical cord. Don't get angry with them, just secure the area and give 'em some chew toys!

Reading rat body language

It may take time for you to figure out what your rats are trying to tell you. These guys are pretty quiet as far as pets go, but you may be chilling out with one of your rats and all of a sudden you'll notice that she's gently grinding her teeth and her eyelids are half-closed. Congratulations, you've got a happy camper! This is not to be confused with the loud clicking sounds of a rat chattering her teeth, which indicates she's angry at another rat. And if you hear a long, high-pitched squeak, one of your rat's is frightened or hurt, so be sure to find out what's up right away.

Your rats speak loud and clear with their body language, too. For example, if you see one of your pets swishing her tail during playtime, she's probably really excited. And when a rat stands super-still and slaps the floor with her tail, she's feeling threatened or annoyed.

There are other ways your rats communicate with you, but half the fun is figuring it out for yourself. We will tell you, though, that if your pet climbs up on your shoulder when you are handling her, you're really lucky – and loved!