Owning a pet rat can be very rewarding and it has many benefits. It can help with being more responsible, has many health benefits, and isn’t as high maintenance as a dog or cat. Rats are also way cleaner than people think. A pet rat is cleaner than an average house cat. They are very sociable pets and are very sweet.
 There is a huge difference between domesticated rats and wild rats. Wild rats are often infected with many diseases and they will also bite you with no hesitation. Meanwhile, domesticated, or fancy rats are very clean and will rarely bite you unless they feel as if they are in danger or being hurt. Wild rats and fancy rats also look different. Wild rats will usually be on all fours with an arched back ready to pounce and only are colored gray and brown. Fancy rats are generally bigger than wild rats and come in many color variations; they also sniff around on two legs instead of being on four in an attack position. Fancy rats are very affectionate and sociable pets. They have plenty of energy and love to play with their fellow rats and their owners. Always buy rats in groups of two or more as they need companions to live long lives. In this way, many rat owners would say rats are like mini puppies, or pocket puppies. They are very affectionate and love to play. You can teach them tricks and potty train them too. They make bonds with their owners and rat friends just like a puppy would. Sometimes, fancy rats even wag their tails when they are happy. Many believe that rats are very dirty animals but this is just not true. Fancy rats are actually cleaner than an average cat. Though you may think that rats are gross and carry diseases, they have many benefits for your health. The South Wilton Veterinary Group states that “Pet rats make great companions and can improve one’s immune system, reduce allergies in children, lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and the risk of stroke. They also provide comfort and therapeutic benefits, making them a perfect fit for those with chronic illnesses”. They are less likely to transmit parasites and diseases than dogs or cats.  Another good thing about owning a pet rat is they cost significantly less than a cat or dog usually would. The South Wilton Veterinary Group also stated “Owning a pet rat is relatively affordable, as rat cages, food, and supplies are not very expensive. Their shorter lifespan also means that they do not require a long-term commitment like some other pets”. They take up less room and aren’t as high maintenance as many pets can be. Pet rats only need a small area for their cage and most, if not all, of their belongings will be inside of that cage. If you get rats as a pet then make sure you have a large open space for them to run around and play in. Don’t leave out cords or valuable possessions that can be chewed through and have clothes that you don’t mind being a little torn. Rats are great pets and a good alternative to a dog or a cat. So go buy a rat and see what amazing pets they can be. |
