Fancy rats are completely different to wild rats. Don't be taken in by all you read and hear - we really make wonderful pets and delightful companions.

Unlike some other rodents, we're diurnal, which means we're awake and ready to play during the day. We're very social animals and get lonely and unhappy if kept alone. We're easy to look after, so it's best to get a pair. Two boys or two girls will live happily together if they are littermates. A boy and a girl rat will get on together, but they'll also have babies!

We like lots of space in which to run around, play and climb, so get a big, tall cage to keep your rat happy. A solid floor will avoid foot injuries. Avoid wooden cages which we'll chew through! Converted aquariums or aviaries make good homes for us. It's best to house rats indoors, in an outhouse or shed if not in the house.