Although many people think of rats as creepy creatures crawling in alleys, domestic rats found in pet stores really make great pets. Some people ask if they're appropriate for young children, but, as with any pet, that's a question for parents to make with their children. Remember that young children often need parental support for many aspects of their lives and the care of pets is another one. Try to set great examples for them and help them devise charting techniques for feeding, cleaning, etc. to get them involved in the care of their new pet. Charting also allows an easy way of checking on them to make sure they are taking proper care of their new animal companion. Reward them for great charting. If they chart for a week with no mistakes allow them to pick out a special toy or treat for their rat or any animal companion. This makes for some great family time as well.
Rats are also very intelligent and trainable. This makes them welcome additions in a house of small children. They can learn multiple tricks, how to walk across ropes and retrieval of items. They enjoy running through tubes, sleeping in hammocks, and making elaborate nests to sleep in. I think their ability to learn new things is often restricted by our ability to teach them.
When considering rat care I will try to give you some of the basics. Many rat owners use solid based caging with mesh for increased ventilation. Try to avoid mesh bottoms as they can irritate the bottom of the feet or catch small toes or nails. Large aquariums can also make adequate homes as well as long as the rats are healthy, allowed out of the enclosure, and the cage is cleaned frequently.
Proper bedding for the bottom of the cages should consist of one of the recycled newspaper beddings. These include fluffy or pellet types, and now come in many different colors as well. The most popular brands are Carefresh and Yesterday's News. Wood shavings, corn cobb, or walnut shells should be avoided as they irritate the respiratory tract and can cause irritations to the feet, nose and eyes.
Diet for rats is varied. The inclusion of a lab block or laboratory diet is recommended as it has the proper balance and ratio of nutrients needed for the rat's body composition. There are many different brands available commercially. These should be available at all times. Small amounts of seeds, fruits and vegetables can be offered daily. Many rats eat with the family at meal times. Most food meant for humans is safe to share with rats. When offering new items, always offer a small amount first to watch for signs of diarrhea or stomach upset. Some food items to avoid include: Raw sweet potato, raw red cabbage, Brussels sprouts, raw artichoke, green bananas, licorice, bleu cheese and rhubarb. Candies and chocolates should also be avoided. Whole grain cereals make great reward items.
The hardest part of owning rats is their lifespan. This can be hard on small children and should be discussed with them when considering rats as the family pet. Their lifespan averages out at 18 months. Their most common medical problems include respiratory disease, cardiac disease, breast cancer and other forms of cancer. There are many new treatments available to significantly help with these disorders. For example, mammary tumors can be avoided or delayed by spaying, Lupron therapy, and possibly the addition of red palm oil to the diet.
Although their lifespan may be shorter than other pets, they are guaranteed to provide you with lots of love, kisses and laughs every day we are blessed to have them.
...the best pocket pets out there for children
