Welcome!
This is a site dedicated to the breeding and pet adoption of fancy rats. I breed a select few variations of pet rats from charcoal rex to white albino rex rats . In this site I will explain many topics from the history of fancy rats to the care and maintanance of your new little friend. *I do not adopt for feeders no acceptions*
History
The first Mouse and Rat Breeders Association appeared in 1978. In 1983 the American Fancy Rat and Mouse Association originated. Since that time,rats have been imported from England and from Australia. Over the last 20 years there has been a large increase in interest in fancy rats as show animals and as pets. In some homes you wont find a cat or the typical family dog, no you will find a fancy rat that gets all the attention. Since 1994 many breeders ave "cross bred" different types of rats that range in color to not having any hair at all. Some people like a hairless rat for its much different look but I prefer the soft and curly coat of a "rex" much more!
Breeding
Female rats "doe" can go into heat as early as 1-2 months old but this is definatly not recommended! The proper age to let her breed if thats what you choose to do would be when she is about atleast 6-7 months. Still may seem too young but really thats when they are in adolecents. Male rats "bucks" can start to breed at about 3 months old. Be sure that when the males in your litter have been weined they are separated from the females because they "will" breed. I dont breed with same family rats for choice, but some breeders do so to get a variation just right and to carry traits over. Appropriate breeding would be between a pair who are around atleast six months old and are healthy without any hairloss or other health problems such as weezing. The gestation period of a rat is usually between 21-25 days. Female rats can get pregenant even within the first 48 hours after giving birth so make sure your buck is separated from her until you are ready to start the process all over again. Although a litter of pups is usually around 7-15 babies, a female can have litters ranging in size from 3-25 pups so make sure that you have a safe and warm home for them to go to.
Health and care
Rats are very clean creatures and do take care of themselves in cleaning quite often. In fact a rat can typically spend one third of thier lives doing just that! Housing your pet is very important making sure that he has room to grow and to play. Other than a water bottle and a food dish, bedding is very important to have in your cage or tank. I believe in using recycled paper shredding for the bedding because it is the best and safest way to keep them comfortable with warmth and its not as dusty as wood chips. Wood chips are discouraged because it can cause your rat to develope breathing problems and even lung infections that can spread to other rats in the cage..If your rat developes a raspy breathing or weezing its best to take them to a vet right away! However there are some home remedies u can try like Echinacea extract that you can put in the water they drink. Not too much just about 4-5 drops should do it changing the water every 2-3 days. Diet is also very important for maintaining a good healthy life for your little friend. Rats are not too picky by any means, known for eating garbage, we like to feed them the best foods to promote good health. Foods like nuts and fruits are great for them, oats and grains, aswell as vegetables like cut carrots or celery help with good eye sight. I personaly raise my critters on these types of foods that have vitamins for immune system and a shiny coat, along with the treats i give such as cheese and sometimes chicken or steak pieces. If you feed them cheese make sure its in moderation because it can be hard on their digestive system. Sweets like candy or chocolate should not be given due to the same poblem. So good diet, clean water and changing the bedding every 3-4 days will keep your little one going strong!
Vet information:
If you notice any symptoms of weezing or excessive sneezing, or any irregular symptoms, and you decide to seek the care of a vetrinary clinic, I personaly recommened Jones Animal Hospital Inc. in Tacoma WA. Jones Animal Hospital Tacoma,WA. 98409 3322 south Union (253)383-2616 or log onto thier website at : www.mypetsdoc.com because they specialize in exotic and small animals.
About Us
Owner/Manager: Nate Gunderson 8 years of rat breeding and boarding. Partner/Asst.Manager Maryann Dick 2 years of rat boarding. Combined with over ten years of experience with care and knowledge of pet rats and successful breeding, we pride ourselves in knowing that all these animals have been raised with care and compassion.
