Rats

rats

Did you know rats make surprisingly affectionate pets? If you're thinking of bringing home a pet rat, here's what you need to know.

Health

Rats that are bred especially as pets are safe to keep and should be free of disease. But common conditions may affect your rats from time to time. Your veterinarian will help you keep your pet rats healthy through regular check-ups. Common illnesses that often affect pet rats include:

  • Infectious respiratory disease
  • Tumors
  • Gastrointestinal illness
  • Dental problems

Your veterinary team can diagnose illness in rats, and we'll do all we can to get your furry friend feeling like himself again.

Care

Rats are social creatures, meaning they enjoy the company of other rats. Unfortunately, they're also aggressive breeders. It's best to keep your rats in same-sex pairs. This prevents breeding, yet provides the company your rat needs to stay happy and well.

Your pet rats will need a suitable habitat. This should be a wire enclosure that's large enough to give them adequate room to run and scurry. Rats enjoy toys, too. A simple hammock made from a washcloth or a small cardboard box with bedding material is ideal to keep your rats entertained.

At the bottom of your rat's enclosure, you'll need to spread small animal litter that's had the dust extracted. This will help to absorb the ammonia smell from rat urine. Keep your rat enclosure in a room that offers a comfortable temperature year-round, as these pets are sensitive to extremes of cold and heat.

Feeding

Rats enjoy a variety of foods, including meats and vegetables. An ideal diet includes such offerings as:

  • Commercial rat food
  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Seeds
  • Nuts
  • Grains
  • Protein, such as dry dog food

Your pet rats will need plenty of fresh water. This should be provided via a hanging water bottle inside the enclosure. If you're unsure what to feed your pet rats, our veterinary team is happy to provide recommendations.

Training

Pet rats can learn many tricks, especially if trained young. These may include coming when called, standing on command, shaking hands, and more. Use gentle treatment and lots of love when training your rat to do tricks, and use food and snacks as positive reinforcement. Train your rat when he's hungry so he has more incentive to learn.

Call to schedule your pet's wellness or urgent care exam now: (952) 758-6722

Testimonials

  • We have been clients of New Prague Animal Care for over 13 years. They have provided exceptional and compassionate care for our “pack” (6 dogs and 3 cats). As a professional dog trainer, breeder of Best in Show and Master Hunter Retrievers as well an owner of multiple kennel/ doggy daycare facilities (30+ years), I have worked with numerous veterinary clinics both in the Twin Cities and nationwide. Dr. Steve and his crew rate among the finest I have worked with. The clinic has all of the fea

    ...
    Show More - Kathryn N
  • My dad has taken all of his dogs there for years, and I take mine there as well. Dr. Lavalle's bedside manner is amazing, and his staff are so genuine and caring. I always have, and will continue referring people to take their pets here. They are hands down the best veterinary care in the area!

    - Amber C
  • Have taken our dogs to Dr. Lavallee for over 10 years and he is great with each of them. He and his staff are very caring and helpful.

    - Barb S
  • Middle of a snow storm a few days ago. My little puppy was injured. I live in Faribult. Vet offices were closed in town. They actually called me while in route to see if I was ok. They were so good with the puppy. The cost was very reasonable. Called today to see how everything was going. I really was very impressed with this office. I recommend this place.

    ...
    Show More - Wendy E
  • Awesome experience! My pets love the care they get from Dr. Lavallee and his staff! They are not just a number; they care for them like my babies are family! Would highly recommend them!

    - SGGM
  • Found a 6-wk old kitten on the side of the highway and brought it in at 7pm on emergency basis. I was blown away by the compassion of Dr. Johnson's team. What a great experience. True animal people!

    - Anna H
  • Moved to New Prague and found this place for our dog.. Such great service, friendly staff, amazing Dr. and very accommodating to all of our needs!! Highly recommended by my pet family!!!

    - Kerri N
  • We love New Prague Animal Care, they are always so kind and caring, from the phone calls to when you walk in. We take our Siberian Husky Bandit in and he gets so much attention, well loved. We've had to take him in twice for emergencies, the in house testing was great, Dr. Johnson was able to resolve the issue almost immediately. I wouldn't take him anywhere else.

    ...
    Show More - Myra C

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Monday
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