If you are looking for a cage pet that is as loving as a dog, as independent as a cat, as smart as a parrot, and as entertaining as a ferret, pet rats might be for you! Domestic rats are as different from wild rats as dogs are from coyotes, and have been bred for over 150 years for calm, people-oriented personalities. They are highly intelligent, clean, sociable animals who love to snuggle with their owners, as well as entertain them with their antics.

With a high profile new movie featuring a rat being released, now seemed like a good time to offer a brief introduction to caring for  them. This web site is just that - an introduction, not a be-all and end-all encyclopedia. As with any subject, different opinions are part and parcel of keeping rats, but there are some important and fairly universal basics. Most rats live from two to three years, and as long as seven, so it's important to educate yourself thoroughly before they join your family.