Click to Skip Ahead
Many families own exotic pets that weren’t popular several decades ago, such as snakes, lizards, mice, and rats. Even better, our knowledge about these animals continues to improve, which means we can better care for them.
If you were thinking of purchasing a rat for your home but would like to know if they would make a good pet and where you might find them, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we list the advantages and disadvantages of owning a pet rat, along with a few places where you can purchase one.
Is Owning a Rat a Good Idea?
Rats can make amazing pets. They are clean and continuously groom themselves like cats. They will also clean each other, so they rarely need bathing. They also like to arrange their food into little piles to keep their area neat. Rats are also extremely intelligent and can learn tricks and solve puzzles. They can catch a ball, jump through hoops, and even respond to their name. They form lifelong bonds with their owners and enjoy cuddling and snuggling.
The downside to owning a rat is that they frequently need medical attention and require several checkups with a knowledgeable rat veterinarian. They also have a short lifespan, and most only live to 2–3 years of age.
Before we dive in, it is important to note that live rodents are not always sold at the options here, and availability greatly differs among stores. If you are unsure about stock and want more information before you head to your local shop, contact them directly.
Retail Sales Outlets
PetSmart
PetSmart is a great retail outlet where you can buy a pet rat and all the supplies that you need to raise them. It has many locations, and each store also has supplies for cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, fish, and other aniamsl. This large company has numerous sales and knowledgeable staff. It will even deliver items right to your door.
Petco
Petco is similar to PetSmart in that it’s a large chain with many stores you can visit to see the animal that you are interested in firsthand. You can choose from a large selection of rats to keep as pets, and it has everything that you need to house and raise them. It also has supplies for cats, dogs, birds, and reptiles, and it even provides services like grooming and training.
Online Sales Outlets
There are many opportunities online to buy pet rats, but you need to make sure there are ways to ensure the safety of your new pet as they are shipped to your home. This is something to inquire with a potential breeder about.
Adopt a Pet
Adopt a Pet is a fantastic online service that enables you to adopt your pet rat from anywhere in the United States. You type in what animal you’re looking for, your zip code, and other details, such as how far you’re willing to drive, and it presents you with a list of options. With any luck, you’ll find one within a few miles of your home that will be less expensive than the a rat that you might find in a retail store.
Conclusion
Rats make great pets as long as you are fine with them only living 2 to 3 years. They are extremely intelligent and enjoy being around people. If you allow it, pet rats will often sit on your lap or shoulder for an hour or more each day, and you might find yourself carrying them around with you more than you ever thought you would. It’s surprisingly easy to find a pet rat at many local pet stores with no need to contact a breeder, and you might even find one online for less money.
Featured Image Credit: Kirill Kurashov, Shutterstock
