Rats can be housed in a wire cage with a plastic base, a plastic rat home or a large vivarium with a well ventilated cover. Wooden cages should not be used as rats will chew their way out. The important thing to remember is that a rat home can never be too big, as they love to explore and exercise. Multi level cages are a good idea as they add interest for the rat. Rats are best kept in doors and careful thought should be given to where your rats home is situated. The temperature in the room should be constant, away from direct sunlight and draughts, and out of reach of any other pets. A rats hearing is extremely sensitive so he should be situated away from loud noises such as a stereo or washing machine. Cages should be cleaned out on a reguar basis. This is especially important in warmer weather to reduce odours and in the winter to ensure your rat is clean and cosy. You need bedding that is absorbent which makes cleaning easier for you. Also recommended is to porvide bedding that is dust extracted, as this can reduces irritation to the eyes, nose and respiratory system.

Feeding

In their natural habitat rats will scavenge for their food and will eat almost anything. Rats are omnivores and need protein to keep them in good condition. As antural foragers, their daily allowance should be split into two portions, one in the morning and one in the evening. To limit  the likelhood of selective feeding, ensure that the first portion is finished before fedding the second. Its not recommended to feed your rat human food, as this may be high in calories, srgary or contain too much fat. You must check where your rat hoards food and remove any old and stale food from those areas and aways ensure there is fresh drinking water.

Exercise

You need to provide a large secure run for daily exercise. This can be free  standing or attached to the cage. An idea is to use a large cardboard box and put bedding on the bottom. Put in some toilet roll tubes and as rats also love climbing you can hang up a piece of sisal rope. Hide a piece of apple wood for it to gnaw and you will see how much fun it can have in its own exercise yard. However you should always keep an eye on it whist it is in its play area.

Handling your rat

Also ways make sure your rat is awake and alert before handling, or it might be scared and try to bite you. Taking to your rat makes it aware that you are close by and wanting to sociaise. Always approach your rat calmly and gently. Once your rat knows your are near, place a closed fist in front of it and allow it to approach. If it i confident an appears interested, slowly unclench your fist and open your hand to allow it to crawl on to your palm. If it does not approach you, you can grap the rat aroung the shoulders, with your thumb just behind the front leg and suppporting the hindfeet with the other hand if necessary. Never pick a rat up by its tail.

Common Illnesses

Mites - You can detect the presence of mites if you notice your rat itching, especially around the neck, shoulders and ears. Scratching can damage the skin, so be sure not to confuse scratches with injuries caused by fighting with cage mates, or a fungul infection. If you are unsure take your rat to the vet.

Respiratory disease - Among the most common problems seen in rats are diseases of the respratory tract. Typical signs include dyspnoea, "ratting" breathing sounds. snuffing, sneezing, nasal discharge and even 'red tears'. General signs of illness such as lethargy, weight loss an ruffed coat are also present. In most cases of rhinitis, bronchits and pneumonia more that one infection agent may be responsible for the respiratory problems. Take your rat as soon as you notices any of these signs.

Overgrown Teeth - Rat's teeth continue to grow thoughout their life. Rats need to gnaw to keep thier teeth in trim. If there is a chipped tooth, or their teeth do not meet properly, this may cause overgrown teeth and they must be trimmed by your vet.

Overgrown Nails - Nails can also become overgrown and should be trimmed by a vet to ensure your rat is comfortable.

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