Oh, Rats!

by Mira P.

I have been planning on getting rats ever since I found out just what wonderful pets they make. I have been researching, and hoping, and saving money, and today it all paid off as I just adopted two wonderful boys. They are very happy in their new home (at least, as far as I can tell) and have been wandering around and chewing up their bed basically all day.

One of them is a dumbo, a rat which has rounder ears that are more on the side of their head. This one, which is recently-named Buster, is a bit sweeter and relaxed than the other one. The other one, recently named Gob (pronounced "Jobe") is sweet, however a bit more nibble-y and eager to escape. He also seems to enjoy the treats a bit more than Buster does.

Buster and Gob - Arrested Development, anyone?

They are, admittedly, a bit bigger than we expected, and our before huge cage is now looking a little smaller. (to be clear, it is not small) However, they appear to be more than happy, and love exploring, though Buster is now laying down for a nap.

Rats, as many rat lovers will tell you, make fantastic pets. I can tell you that right now, and I've barely had these ratties for a day. They are intelligent, loving, and extremely cute. Boys tend to be slightly calmer than girls, preferring to sit in your lap instead of explore the bathroom. Of course, it all depends on the individual rat's personalities; boys can be excitable and adventurous, and there are girl lap-rats.

Another thing rat lovers will tell you is that rats are like mini dogs, and yes, this is also true! They can be just as smart as dogs, just as playful, they can come running to the door to greet you, and, you can train them! You can train them to come when you call, to fetch a ball (hey, that rhymed!), to walk on hind legs, use a litter box, anything! Teaching them to come when they call is slightly important, as it can come to your aid if your rats go missing - and they can be little Houdinis when it comes to getting out of their cage.

I am very excited and grateful that I was able to get rats, especially ones as sweet and cute as Buster and Gob!