Hi, Im Reggie Rat. Im so pleased youve come to read about me. Lots of people are scared of rats, but, like all Fancy rats, Im really friendly. Not to mention very smart, affectionate and playful!

Fancy rats are completely different from wild rats. Dont be taken in by all you read and hear we make really wonderful pets and delightful companions. Some people say they dont like our tails; but cats and dogs and rabbits have tails - and ours are just the right size and shape for us rats.

Were very social animals and get lonely and unhappy if we are kept alone. Were easy to look after so its best to get a pair. Two boys or two girls from the same litter will be really happy together. But remember that a boy and a girl will have babies.


We like lots of space to climb and race about in; so get a big, tall cage to keep us happy. We need a solid floor as it will save us injuring our feet; but dont give us a wooden cage or well gnaw our way out of it! A converted aquarium (also called a Vivarium!) or aviary would make us a good home. Wed much prefer to be indoors with you, but wed be OK on a warm, dry, sheltered patio or shed if theres really nowhere suitable in the house - but you must visit and play with us every day or well become very depressed and can become ill.