All About Rats: The Ultimate Care Guide
Rats are intelligent, affectionate, and highly social animals that make fantastic pets. They are easy to train, enjoy interacting with their owners, and thrive in a well-enriched environment. If you’re considering adding a pet rat to your family, here’s everything you need to know.
Are Rats Right for You?
Rats are perfect pets for those who appreciate their intelligence, playfulness, and affectionate nature. They require daily social interaction, mental stimulation, and proper care to thrive. If you’re looking for a small pet with a big personality, a rat might be the perfect choice!
Housing your Rats
Rabbits need a spacious enclosure, whether it’s a large indoor pen or a secure outdoor hutch. They should have enough space to move freely, stretch, and stand on their hind legs. Soft bedding, hideouts, and chewable toys help create a comfortable environment. Rabbits also need daily supervised time outside of their enclosure to exercise.
Diet & Nutrition
A balanced rat diet includes high-quality rat pellets, fresh vegetables, and occasional treats such as fruits, grains, and nuts. Avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and anything toxic like onions, garlic, or chocolate. Fresh water should always be available in a bottle or dish.
Socialisation & Enrichment
Rats are highly social and should always be kept in pairs or small groups to prevent loneliness. Regular handling helps them become tame and affectionate. Provide a variety of toys, tunnels, and opportunities for free-roaming playtime outside of their cage under supervision.
Health & Care
Regular health checks are essential for pet rats. Look out for respiratory issues, overgrown teeth, or lumps. Keeping their cage clean will help prevent illness. Rats are very clean animals, so they do not require baths, but gentle brushing can help keep their coats tidy.
Food & Treats
We have a wide range of nutritious food & treats for all of your small animals
Toys & Enrichment
Find the perfect toys & enrichment to keep you furry little friends entertained all day long.
Hutches & Cages
We have suitable Hutches & Cages for indoors or outdoors.
Straw & Hay
We have an ever growing selection of straw, hay & bedding, to keep your fluffy friends safe, warm and healthy.
Grooming
We have a large selection of small animal grooming and accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rats
1. What food do you recommend for rats?
We stock high-quality rat nuggets and mixes suitable for all ages, ensuring balanced nutrition with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Fresh vegetables and occasional healthy treats can be offered to add variety, but sugary or sticky foods should be avoided. Fresh water should always be available.
2. Do you sell large cages for rats?
Yes! We offer multi-level, spacious cages designed for active, social rats. These enclosures provide plenty of space for climbing, running, and exploring.
3. Do you sell rats?
Yes! We offer rats from reputable breeders. We prioritise matching them with loving, safe, and suitable long-term homes. Proof of an appropriate cage setup may be requested if not purchased from us, and we reserve the right to refuse a sale if we feel the environment is unsuitable. Our staff provide guidance on diet, housing, and enrichment for a smooth transition.
4. Can you help with advice on keeping rats in pairs or groups?
Yes! Rats are social animals and thrive in pairs or small groups. Our team can advise on proper group sizes, introducing new rats and ensuring that both males and females are housed safely.
5. Do you sell rat hammocks?
Yes! We carry a variety of fabric hammocks and hanging beds. Hammocks are a favourite resting spot for rats.
5. Do you sell bedding for rats?
Absolutely. We stock paper bedding, soft substrates, and dust-extracted materials. Bedding should be refreshed regularly to maintain a clean environment.
6. What toys do rats enjoy?
Rats benefit from a variety of toys. We stock a wide range to encourage mental stimulation, exercise, and natural behaviours like chewing and exploring.
7. How should I handle rats safely?
Rats can be startled if handled abruptly. Approach calmly, scoop them up with both hands, and support their bodies. Regular short handling sessions help build trust.
8. What is the average lifespan and care commitment for rats?
Rats typically live 2–3 years, though some can live slightly longer with optimal care. Despite their small size, they require daily feeding, fresh water, cage cleaning, enrichment, and social interaction.
9. Can you provide advice for new rat owners?
Absolutely! There is a Rat care guide available for download below or alternatively our team are always happy to answer any questions.
Some of our trusted brands for our Small Animals
Just a few of the trusted brands we stock in our stores.
