[sneakers88]

hey everyone i am new on RatForum.com...In a couple of days i will be getting my first rat.Since i had about 30 mice growing up i can relate well with rodents,But i still need tones of help with my new pet so if any of you got any beginners facts i will be glad to take themThankks a bunch..

 

[Inesita]

Hi, welcome!
One? You oughta get two, they do best in pairs!

 

[sneakers88]

Oh thanks...I always thought that if there in twos you cant train they as well.

 

[Vixie]

1. Get two rats at the very least, loner rats can have many health problems.
2. Don't feed them anything from the petstores, it's cheaper and healthier to make your own mix(google Suebee's Diet).
3. The cage should have two square feet for each rat.
4. Well-bred and hand raised rats love affection and play, take them out and play with them as much as you can.
5. Teach them their names and teach them to come when called for. This can usually be done by holding them and constantly saying their name while scritching and whatnot, then to teach them to come associate a sound and the one-word command(like shaking the yoggie box/bag and saying "(name), Come!")
6. Have a GOOD rat vet in mind, one who has experience and knowledge, not just one who is willing to handle rats.


Good luck and have fun with your rats!

 

[sneakers88]

Thank you so much!!!!!So rats have to have a vet?And i have 2 mice cages
if i joind them together would that be enough room...And i have a mouse wheel...do i have to get a bigger one?

 

[Forensic]

Put the dimensions of your joined cages into the 'rat calculator' (in the 'Homes' section) to make sure it's big enough. And yes. Rats need a 12" wheel.