How to Buy a Rat

Buying a rat may seem to be a simple task, but buying a rat that works for you is not. If you want to find just the right rat that will be a wonderful companion to you and a loving pet, use these helpful tips.

Instructions

1. Visualize all the things you will need for a rat, such as a substantial cage and bedding. Be ready to clean the cage weekly and handle the rat for an hour each day if it's alone. Some experts recommend buying rats in pairs.

2. Look for a personal recommendation from someone you know. Whether the rat is very young or older (they live to 3 to 5 years), find a rat that seems to like to be handled and has been socialized. For a baby, be ready to do a lot of careful and gentle handling. While some rats seem to be ideal pets, others tend to bite as rats can be very protective.

3. Try Craigslist or the classifieds, but you never know what you might get. Whether free or not, ask to handle the pet before you leave with it. Don't be picky about coloring. Some choose girls over boys because they tend to smell less.

4. Buy from a pet store, whether Petco, Petsmart or an independent shop. Ask a lot of questions. Though some rats work out, others have not been handled much. Check to see whether the store has a return policy and what this entails. Some stores allow you to keep them for 15 days before returning.

5. Give the rat a chance to get used to you. Be patient but don't get too disappointed if the relationship doesn't work out; it's not your fault. If you are a parent dealing with children, they need to be mature enough for this pet. Some professionals recommend that children, even older children, try a different type of pet. However, sometimes rats work out well for a family.