Rat Care: The 411

Scientific name: Rattus norvegicus

Size: Rats measure from 8 to 10 inches long (not including tail), and weigh from 7 ounces to about a pound.

Lifespan: Two to three years.

Colors/varieties:
Lots of variations, from creamy silver, bright white and chocolate brown to black-hooded and blue-spotted.

Rats are upstanding members of the rodent family, which means they are mammals with sharp front teeth that never stop growing. You may also be familiar with their cousins—gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs and mice.

Just like you, rats need friends—and if you keep two females together, they'll become best buds. If you want two males, it's best to get two babies from the same litter. If you keep a male and a female together, have your veterinarian neuter the male and spay the female so they can't have babies.

Just FUR Fur: Did you know that pet rats are available wearing five different kinds of coats?

  • The short STANDARD coat is the most common.
  • REX rats have curly coats—and curly whiskers, too.
  • Rats with SATIN coats have super shiny hair.
  • Some rats are bred to be TAILLESS. (That's right, no tails!)
  • Owning a HAIRLESS rat sure cuts down on all those trips to the beauty parlor. (Just kidding!

    • But if you do get a hairless rat, please remember that they're extra sensitive to heat and cold, and need to be kept warm.)

    LEARN MORE
    - The 411
    - Chow Time!
    - Home Sweet Home
    - Fun & Games

    Parents and teachers, visit ASPCA online for more rat care info to share with your students and children.

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