1. How to Take Care of Pet Rats
By: Kaitlynn Robbins

2. Step 1. Prepare to get your pets
• Find a veterinarian who is qualified and willing
to treat rats.
• Do as much research on them as you can.
• Learn about their health risks and diet.

3. Step 2. Buy the things you need
• You’ll need a cage that has at least 2 square feet per
rat, solid floors and levels, and bars.
• Aspen, cloth or paper bedding is recommended.
• Your rats diet should be 80% lab blocks and 20% fruits
and vegetables.
• You’ll need water bottles,
a wheel, and hiding
places, too.
• Litter boxes and
hammocks are optional,
but recommended.

4. Step 3. Get your rats
Buy your rats from a
responsible rescue.
Having at least two rats of the
same gender (or
spayed/neutered) is highly
recommended because most
rats get lonely if they do not
have a buddy.

5. Step 4. Spays and neuters.
•Spaying greatly decrease the chance of getting
tumors and Pyometra (uterine infection).
•Neutering reduces male aggression.

6. Step 5. Enjoy your rats!
• Rats need at least an hour of out time a day.
• Let them run around in a supervised, secure
area, such as a playpen or even your bed.
• Play with them! The more you socialize with
your rats the more bonded, social and happier
they’ll be.

7. Tips
• Keep your rats environment at a temperature
you would be comfortable with, or 65 to 75
degrees Fahrenheit.
• Do not put keep your rats in a tank!
• While it’s not necessary to teach your rat
tricks, it may be fun to.

8. The End.