Fancy Rat

Description: Like many rodents, pet rats get a bad reputation for being considered "dirty" and "gross." In reality, rats are very intelligent, inquisitive, and interactive. They are not overly messy, and are less likely to bite than some other species. Given time to get used to their new home, pet rats make fantastic additions to the family. Pet rats are very social and active pets that are much smarter than they get credit for. In fact, rats are so smart that some individuals even learn to come when their name is called. Learn more about your pet rat on our Rat Care Guide site!Species: RatNormal Pet Size at Maturity: Fancy rats grow up to 7 to 10" (18-25 cm) long with a 6 to 8" (15-20 cm) tail.Average Lifespan: They live for approximately 2 years.Basic Diet: For detailed feeding information, check out the Feeding you Rat section of our rat care guide! Rats are omnivores in the wild and eat a variety of foods including seeds, nuts, plant vegetation and insects. Rat pellets provide well balanced nutrition for your pet. Fresh vegetables should be offered every other day in addition to the pelleted diet to increase variety into the diet as well as to help supplement hydration. Fruit can be offered once a week as a treat.Habitat Necessities: for full details, see the setting up a Rat Habitat section of our care guide! Place the habitat out of direct sunlight in a low humidity area that's between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and not in a high-traffic or loud areaLine the habitat with an appropriate amount of clean bedding (about 1" deep)Don't forget your enrichment! Place your exercise wheel, your chew(s), toys, hides and any other enrichment items into the habitat Does this Pet Need a Roommate? best when housed in same-sex pairsMinimum Enclosure Size: House your rat in a habitat that's at least 16" x 28" x 30", with multiple levelsSafety Tips for You and Your Pet: It is recommended to closely monitor any new pet for 30 days in their own enclosure to observe signs of illness, prevent the spread of potential diseases, and to limit stress while your pet acclimates to their new home. All new pets should be seen by a veterinarian within 14 days of purchase to establish care and discuss a health and wellness plan. All animals can potentially carry viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases contagious to humans. Thoroughly wash your hands with warm, soapy water before and after contact with any pet or its habitat. Adults should assist children with hand washing after contact with a pet or its enclosure. Use caution when handling pets, and remember they may bite or scratch, especially when stressed.Vet Assured: Pets purchased at PetSmart are part of our exclusive Vet Assured program, designed by PetSmart veterinarians to help improve the health and well-being of our pets. Our vendors meet a high standard in caring for pets and screening them for common illnesses, including Zoonotic diseases. This program also includes specific standards for in-store pet care.When to Contact a Veterinarian: In addition to regularly scheduled appointments, contact your small animal veterinarian if you notice the following signs: cloudy, sunken or swollen eyes wheezing sneezing; discharge from the eyes, nose or mouth overgrown front teeth drooling inability to close mouth, food falling from mouth frequently not eating bare patches in the fur sores or swelling⁄changes to the feet weight loss; not eating or drinking normally diarrhea or discolored droppings The PetSmart Promise: If your pet becomes ill during the initial 14-day period, or if you're not satisfied for any reason, PetSmart will gladly replace the pet or refund the purchase price.