Should I get a domestic rat: the pros and cons of a decorative pet

Rats are rodents from the mouse family. As a companion animal, it has been side by side with humans since the XNUMXth century. When considering whether to get a rat, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the species. Decorative rats in the process of selection acquired differences from the wild relative. For breeding, the calmest individuals were selected, so aggression and unsociableness in the pet are excluded. Pets that are purchased from trusted places and kept in favorable conditions are not susceptible to dangerous diseases. Neighborhood with a rodent is absolutely safe for humans.

What are rats?

Males have a calm nature and a tendency to laziness. They are affectionate and love to be petted. Females are more active and prefer active games.

Domestic rats:

• cleanliness;
• inquisitive;
• sociable;
• unpretentious;
• quick-witted;
• amenable to learning.

Each of the qualities has its pros and cons, which must be considered when deciding to get a pet rat.

In nature, they live in packs, so the pet needs to communicate. It is desirable to purchase a pair of rat pups of the same sex. They can be kept in the same cage without fear of conflicts and unforeseen replenishment of the family. In order for a rat to turn from a distrustful creature that avoids meeting people into a friendly pet, the owner needs to spend a lot of time with it.

The developed intelligence of a pet can deliver a lot of trouble. Most constipation and heck cells do not represent a serious obstacle for them. There are cases when, despite the low weight, the rat managed to open the refrigerator.

But a lively mind allows the animals to become a true friend to man. If the owner pays enough attention to education, the pet quickly begins to distinguish it from other people, remembers its own name and simple commands, and learns fun tricks.

The content of rats is possible only in a cage. An inquisitive animal can harm itself and the property of the owner, walking around the apartment without supervision. Rodents are distinguished by cleanliness, they enjoy spending time in the water and devote 2-3 hours a day to personal hygiene. To prevent illness and an unpleasant smell, the cage should be cleaned regularly, and the ward should be provided with timely walks and meals.

Why you should get a rat, or refuse to purchase

The rat is a full-fledged comrade with whom you can interact: play, take care of him, stroke and even communicate. It will harmoniously fit into any apartment, as even in a small living space there is a place for a cage and space for walking.

Pros:

• friendly character;
• simple care and unpretentiousness in the diet;
• can be placed comfortably in any apartment;
• rodents are big inventors and interesting to watch;
• do not need to walk on the street;
• if you have a carrier on hand, you can take your pet with you anywhere;
• cleanliness and high immunity minimize the risk of diseases;
• relatively low noise level will not create inconvenience to neighbors;
• maintenance does not require significant financial outlays.

All the pros and cons of the acquisition must be considered taking into account the characteristics of each particular family. It is advisable to reckon with the opinion of all the people living in the apartment.

Reasons not to get a rat:

• frequent business trips – the animal should not be left unattended for a long time;
• lack of time – without regular contact with a person, the animal will not become tame, and already tamed will be bored;
• the presence in the family of people prone to allergies to wool;
• living in the house of other animals – their relationship is not always successful and can cause a lot of trouble for the owners.

A significant disadvantage is the average life expectancy of a rat. It is only 2-3 years. Saying goodbye to a pet can upset younger family members. Let the friendship with the rat be short-lived, but it is able to bring bright colors to the everyday life of any person.