Why do rats have a bad reputation?

By Alicyn Leigh. Long Island Press

"We suppose people fall into the stigma that has been attached to rats for years; that they cause disease, that they're vicious, dirty, despicable animals," Foxx says.

The truth is that through breeding generations of rats we now have the "domestic pet rat" or "fancy rat."

Specific care is very important for properly keeping rats. They need companionship and daily attention, including a few hours out of their cage to free run.

"Rats are very social and should be housed together in groups of three or more," Foxx says. "They need large, multi-level cages, more like ferret cages than the rodent cages. Never put them in an aquarium."

"Females are feistier, more inquisitive, playful and more prone to mammary tumors; males are more relaxed, larger, aggressive and less prone to tumors, but the traits can run in both sexes," explains Renee.

The average lifespan is 2-3 years, but they can live longer. "A pet rat should follow the same diet as an average person," Foxx says. "We tell adopters that whatever's not good for your body is not good for theirs. They need low-fat, low-protein and low-sugar diets, just like us."

Since rats are considered to be exotics, one must have a veterinarian who is knowledgeable and experienced with rodents. A rat's medical costs, according to Foxx, can "be quite high, so a $5 pocket pet can turn into thousands. There are rat rescues who can help so there is no need to cut their short lives shorter."

Want to adopt a pet rat?

here's where to go...to support this Pet Rat Rescue

Visit RMRR's discount online store dedicated to small animals, The One Stop Critter Shop, at www.theonestopcrittershop.com. RMRR needs volunteers for transporting rats, fostering, adopters and/or physical (bedding, cereal, towels, etc.) or monetary donations. Please make all checks and money orders payable to Ratta Muffin Rat Reskue or Paypal. E-mail: ratgurrrlz@yahoo.com

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