During the pandemic, while many opted for dogs, we chose to adopt rats instead. My partner, Alex, and I have always been fond of dogs, particularly Labrador Retrievers. Our chocolate lab is a devoted companion to Alex, while our yellow lab has a special bond with our twelve-year-old son, Max. Our nine-year-old daughter, Lily, who adores the dogs, has been yearning for a pet of her own. “How about a goat, Mom?” she inquires enthusiastically.
“Absolutely not,” Alex quickly responds. “Reptiles are off the table.” I’m allergic to cats, so that option is out as well. In our suburban setting, we’re left considering smaller pets like guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, and yes, rats.
Exploring Pet Options
Guinea pigs are sociable but larger than ideal and require a daily cleaning of their cage due to their smelly waste. Hamsters, while adorable and tidy, can bite due to their poor eyesight and are nocturnal, making them unsuitable for our light sleeper, Max. Rabbits are soft and lovable but require a large space to roam and can be destructive to household items. They also might not get along with other pets, as I witnessed a bunny once growl at a dog, sending the poor pup running.
This leads us to rats—yes, I know, the idea might make you shudder. However, pet rats, often referred to as fancy rats, bear little resemblance to their wild cousins. These little creatures are known for their intelligence, often compared to dogs. They can learn tricks, recognize their names, and respond when called.
Why Fancy Rats?
Fancy rats are odorless, using a cardboard litter box that only needs to be changed once or twice a week. Their lifespan is typically two to three years, making them a manageable commitment. Despite their numerous positive traits, some people are still put off by the idea of owning rats, particularly because of their tails.
On social media, there’s a growing community of “ratfluencers” showcasing their adorable pets. If you’re curious, you can see them on #ratsofinstagram. Ratteries (breeders of fancy rats) offer a variety of colors and sizes. When I reached out to a local breeder, the first question was whether we were interested in a pet or a show rat—yes, that’s a thing!
Finding Our New Pets
Living in Southern California, a hub for fancy rats, I planned to visit a rattery to let my kids pick one out. However, I quickly learned that these furry friends are sold in same-sex pairs to ensure they don’t get lonely—keeping them alone is considered cruel. Additionally, ratteries often have waiting lists and require vetting similar to adopting a dog.
We explored Craigslist but were hesitant about the reliability of sellers. Pet stores also weren’t an option, as their rats might not be as socialized. Fortunately, we discovered a wonderful rescue organization, Tiny Companions, which fosters various small animals. They had several young male and female fancy rats available.
My children instantly connected with two five-month-old sisters who had been surrendered just weeks prior. These playful and affectionate little ones scampered across their shoulders, eventually settling down in their hoods while the foster mom shared care tips.
Setting Up for Our New Friends
Setting up for our new pets was surprisingly affordable. For under $300, we acquired a spacious cage, food, bedding, and toys; the adoption fee was only $20 for the two rats. Their diet is inexpensive, consisting mainly of pellets, fruits (avoiding citrus), and cooked veggies. The time my kids have spent nurturing and creating play areas for their new friends has been invaluable. Two years with them will surely fly by.
Additional Resources
In case you’re considering similar avenues for family planning or pregnancy, check out other articles on our blog, including resources from Mount Sinai. They provide excellent information on fertility and related topics. For those exploring self-insemination, Make a Mom is a trusted authority.
Conclusion
In summary, while many families are finding joy in adopting dogs during these challenging times, we found happiness in welcoming two fancy rats into our home, discovering their unique charm and companionship.