Infamous rats' reputation on rise

By Libby James
Correspondent

Aggressive pest or affectionate pet? Rats have been given a bad rap over time, say contented owners of these diminutive "pocket pets."

The small, furry rodents are famous in history and literature for their greed, sneakiness and role in spreading dread diseases. But people who have taken them into their homes to feed, nurture and enjoy say there's another story to be told about the much-maligned rat.

Fleas from black rats (Rattus rattus) carried the bubonic plague, responsible for countless deaths in the Middle Ages. The brown or Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) likes to hang out in sewers, barns and old buildings, gnawing and stealing whatever it can find.

In his informative small book, "Rats For Those Who Care," Dennis Kelsey-Wood says that rats have caused many deaths, but they have also contributed to saving many lives through their service as laboratory animals. Rats gained their unsavory reputation because of their determination to live in close proximity to humans, chewing their possessions, eating their garbage and sometimes attacking.

Wild rats and those who become endearing pets are genetically the same, but through generations of breeding in captivity, some rats have mellowed. The brown rat, most commonly used in laboratories, is the ancestor of today's pet or fancy rats. Free of disease and as clean as any dog or cat, sociable, intelligent and under most circumstances quite docile, these little creatures are a joy to have around, according to their owners.

Rats bond with their caretakers, learn tricks and come when they are called. They enjoy being handled and need at least an hour each day out of their cage for playtime and to range freely. They are less expensive and require less care than dogs, and they provide similar companionship.

If renting, would-be rat owners are advised to check with their landlords before bringing home a pocket companion. Some places won't allow rodents as pets.

The healthiest and best-socialized young rats (called kittens) are likely to come from breeders who understand their need to be handled early and frequently. They can also be found in pet shops, and sometimes are available for adoption through pet shelters and humane societies. Rats are happiest with a companion or two and should not be taken from their mothers until they are 5 or 6 weeks old.

By that time, it is easy to distinguish males (bucks) from females (does). Rats are extremely fertile, and females can become pregnant before they are 6 weeks old. It is therefore critical that males and females be kept separate. Rats are often sold in pairs of the same sex.

Bucks and does make equally good pets. Males are laid back and lazy, and will happily curl up on a lap. Does are smaller, more active and playful. Kittens nurse for about four weeks and grow rapidly for 12 to 14 weeks. Then they grow slowly until reaching adulthood at six months.

Rats have poor eyesight but are much more sensitive to sound and smell than humans. They live for two to three years, but with a roomy cage, companionship, a healthy diet and regular exercise, they can live longer.

Rat owners can buy fancy cages, rodent snacks, special bedding, squeaky toys, climbing ropes and pipes. Rats cost between $10 and $30 a pair; cages can run as much as $90 but can often be found secondhand. The economy-minded owner can purchase a complete set-up, including food, bedding, water-holder and toys, for as little as $75.

Cages should be cleaned once or twice a week. Daily changing makes rats nervous because they feel most comfortable when surrounded by their own scent. They only need to be bathed if they're on their way to an exhibition, but care should be taken to use nonirritating kitten or puppy shampoo. It's possible to clip their nails, but because of their size, it's a tricky business and may require an extra helping hand.

Rats are susceptible to skin irritations, respiratory problems and tumors. If offered, they will choose junk food over fruit and vegetables, so it's necessary to watch their weight.

"Training Your Pet Rat" by Gerry Bucsis and Barbara Somerville, published by Barron's, offers advice on caging, feeding and management as well as do-it-yourself ideas to enhance a rat's habitat. The authors offer a small warning to owners: "You may occasionally sustain scratches or bites. A few diseases of domestic rats can be transmitted to humans and some people are allergic to rat hair and dander."

Rat fanciers may be interested in contacting The Rat Fan Club, 857 Lindo Lane, Chico, CA 95973 or checking out the Rat Report newsletter that suggests games, toys and tricks to teach a rat.

Rats are not for everyone, but then neither are dogs or cats. With a bit of a mind shift, a rat can become a cuddly, convenient and extremely portable pet.