Hi there,

Bruce here. I have a few years experience breeding rats as feeders, as well have had many that are pets only, or pets and breeders.

I had a friend come over today, as her daughter has recently become fascinated with snakes as a pet. But surprise, the rats stole the show, as they always do.

Mom asked if I would post an info gathering thread for her daughter. They are receptive to the idea of pet rats, and I have given them as much information as I could think. But I am biased, I love my rats and think they are one of the most under-rated pets available for kids and people that live in smaller spaces.

What they would like to know, from others that have raised rats. is...

1)...the difference in regards to same-sexed pairs. Males vs. females.

Keep in mind that these rats would be in an environment where they will never come into contact with opposite sexed rats.

This can be as broad or as specific as you would like to be. Health, behaviour, etc.

I leand towards two males, my partner is partial to two females.

2) Another point I discussed was the importance of having the pets spayed or neutered. I approached this from the long-term health aspects, and that this shows an investment in the animal, and ultimately will give their daughter a more positive rat-keeper experience.

Nothing worse than having a pet die at 2-3 years, that may have had a better (and longer) quality of life. When that is simple and preventative, then I feel it is an imperative lesson for a child to take from any aspect of animal keeping.

3) Any personal antecdotes regarind positive experiences, or aspects of concern.

We have discussed attentiveness, and having her daughter's room rat-proofed prior to bringing the babes home.

Any contributions you can make to this thread would be greatly appreciated. Rachel, the future keeper, understands that this will be an experience that has to planned for, so there is lots of time to ensure the family has the information and makes an appropriate decision regarding their capacity to care for the rats long-term.

The family are perfect bilinguals and responses can be in French or English.

Thanks in advance from myself (bruce), mom (michelle) and the future keeper (rachel)

Bruce

Here is a pic of Rachel and "Monsieur Heureux"