Many health problems can be prevented by making sure to feed your rat the best diet possible, by providing optimum housing, plenty of exercise, mental enrichment, excellent veterinary care and lots of love. While I wish I could say rats are low maintenance and hardly ever have medical problems, I have not found that to be the case. In fact, the last six of my rats have all had medical problems that were completely atypical, causing my veterinarians to consult with experts in rat diseases and medical treatments.
Many people aren’t prepared for how much it costs to take care of their pets. I used to work at the front desk in a veterinary hospital that saw exotic pets including rats. I was appalled at the number of people who would call for an appointment and, when they found out the exam alone was $50+, they would say “Why would I want to pay for that? I only paid $5 for my rat.”
Any healthcare for any pet costs money. Pets are a luxury. I would guess I spend at least $500 per rat each year on exams, medicine and surgery when it’s needed. This is one of the reasons why I “only” have two rats!
For more in-depth information on pet rat health, click on each of the links below:
Veterinarian Information:
- Choosing Your Pet Rats’ Veterinarian
- Knowing When Your Pet Rat Needs to See a Veterinarian
- Online Directories of Pet Rat Veterinarians
Spaying & Neutering Your Pet Rats
Hi. Love this website. My rat is now 1 year old. He did have a brother with him but ‘accidentally’ injured him whilst having a fight and he had a stroke or something and had to be pts! He loves being alone though. Very content and happy. I know it’s not a good idea to introduce other rats from a different litter. But I wonder if he’s a bit lonely.
What’s your opinion on this?
Hi Charlotte,
I really appreciate your telling me that you love my website. That means so much to me!
I’m sorry to hear about your current rat’s brother, who’s now deceased. That sounds like it was very traumatic. I’m not sure if you’re knowledgeable about pet rat behavior—especially when it comes to knowing whether your rats are playing or fighting. Just in case it’s helpful, here’s my post on decoding their interactions: Play, Tiff, or Clash: Understanding Pet Rat Relationships.
I believe your rat would love to have a new friend. Whenever I’ve introduced a new rat to a current single rat, their lives were enormously brightened and enriched. It’s like their life went from black-and-white to color.
It’s perfectly fine to introduce rats from a different litter. This post, What to Do When You’re Down to One, will give you ideas on how to choose a new friend for your current rat.
You may also find this post, How to Ace Pet Rat Introductions, useful. I believe introductions are an art. They’re also very satisfying—not only for your rat, but also for you!
If you have any questions or need any clarification, don’t hesitate to let me know. Feel free to update me on your progress choosing and introducing a new rat to your current rat.
Best Wishes to You & Your Rat,
Jasmine | About Pet Rats
Hello! I’ve found your website useful in the past. One of my rats has a green lump near her tail and we have no idea what it is or what to do have you got any information on this.
Hi Bella,
I recommend you take your rat in to see a veterinarian who’s knowledgeable about and experienced with pet rats.
I, personally, have never seen a green lump on a rat. If you’d like to email a photo, I’ll be glad to look at it and give you my opinion. It’s still best for her to see a vet, though.
I hope you’re able to take her to an experienced rat vet soon—within the next several days ideally. Some masses can grow quickly and it’s better to get them removed before they get too large.
Best Wishes to You & Your Rats,
Jasmine | About Pet Rats
Thanks so much for sharing!
Hi Sabrina,
I’m so happy you’ve found my site and that you’re finding it helpful.
Jasmine | About Pet Rats
My pet rat was laying on his back didn’t respond for few seconds could it be heat stroke?
Hi Latrishas,
A rat lying on it’s back could be due to a number of potential causes. Was the temperature excessively hot at the time when this happened?
Is your rat behaving normally now? If not, I strongly urge you to take him to a veterinarian who’s experienced with and knowledgeable about pet rats. Just in case it’s helpful, When to See a Veterinarian has information on what symptoms require veterinary attention.
Every once in awhile I’ve had a rat who’d sleep on his back although this really isn’t at all typical.
I sure hope your rat is okay and, if not, you’re able to take him to a veterinarian. Let me know if you have any additional questions.
Jasmine | About Pet Rats
If I bought my pet rat from a feeder bin, do I need to worry about getting him tested for Hantavirus? Is it something to be concerned about? Thanks!
Hi There!
Thanks for asking your important question. No, you don’t typically have to have a rat from a feeder bin tested for Hantavirus. It is a good idea to take your new baby in for a wellness check with a veterinarian who’s experienced with and knowledgeable about pet rats, though. Even if you think your new baby is perfectly healthy, it’s a good idea for him to be checked out by a vet. This will 1) Give your vet a “baseline” to compare to in the future 2) Allow you and your vet to establish a relationship with your new baby 3) Help if your baby has a problem you’re not aware of—-Many times a good vet can catch something early that you might not have noticed or thought of. This will save you time, money and be beneficial to your new baby’s health.
Also, did you already know it’s better to have at least two pet rats? Let me know if you have any questions about this and I’m happy to help anytime.
Best Wishes to You & Your New Rat,
Jasmine | About Pet Rats