Getting a Rat or 2? Heres a must have shopping list:

- A big cage (at least 2 square foot of space per rat should be allowed) Martins cages are great, apparently, in the US. Shelves etc. to maximise space are necessary too.

- Toys!! Mine love tubes and leap n' ledges, and also plastic baskest that I attach with cable ties. (zip ties) You can also get ropes and loads of other stuff. The rats have stolen all of the cat's little jingle-ball-toys. they play soccer with them.

- Hammocks! Rats love hammocks, really love them. These are vital....

- Maybe some daily vitamins? Am not sure what you can get, but here (UK) lots of ratty owners use 'Dr Squiggles Daily Essentials' and give this to their rats two or three times a week. It goes in their drinking water.

- A book - Debbie Ducommon's books are very informative, especially her 'Rat Health Care' book. There are also other good rat books out.

- Have a vet 'lined up' and picked out, 'just in case'.

- Baby wipes (fragrance free) are great for 'spot cleaning' cage shelves etc and you can also use them to give a rat a quick wipe over if the ratty gets a bit pongy.

- A basic first aid kit. Perhaps some animal antibacterial powder in case of injury and a cohesive bandage. Maybe also some ferretvite in case of problems with appetite etc.

A reputable rat breeder is always better than a pet shop too - you rat is more likely to be healthy and live longer if it's breeder knows it's heritage. Or a rescue, of course - rescuing rats is rewarding, and rescues often have young rats.

...and Welcome to the Rattie community!