Domestic rats continue to carry a reputation that is as old as it is unfair: that of being dirty, unsanitary or dangerous animals. However, science and the experience of specialist caregivers show a completely different portrait.
According to the welfare guide of the international organization RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), which brings together recommendations for its management, “rats are very clean animals“, a fact that surprises those who still associate them with dirt.
“Not only do they scrupulously guard the space where they sleep from that which serves as their toilet, but they they spend hours grooming or grooming themselves“, they state. “The great plague of 1665 is now believed to have been spread by human lice and fleas, not rats.”
Based on this postulate (their remarkable natural hygiene), the recommendations for offering them a suitable habitat are consistent with what is expected of an intelligent, sensitive animal with a complex social life. YesYour cage must above all be a spacious and stimulating space.
“Your rats will need a large cage that can accommodate their needs,” the guide’s creators note. “They are active and they need space to run, stand on their hind legs, climb and explore.
Curiosity is one of its most characteristic traitsthe environment must therefore offer them variety and freedom of choice to avoid stress. It’s not just about having a cage, it’s about making it your home.
This focus, experts insist, must offer constant opportunities for research. It is therefore recommended to include “a complex and enriched space, with a variety of horizontal and vertical barriers, objects, materials and structures“.
The space between the bars should be small enough so that they cannot stick their heads through it.
Platforms, tunnels, ropes or hammocks allow them to exercise and stay mentally active, although they do not have to occupy the entire cage, because They also need open areas.
Environmental safety is another crucial aspect. Wire mesh floors cannot be used (which causes paw injuries) nor can materials they chew through to the point of creating escape holes. “Check regularly that the cage is still intact“, they advise.
“The space between the bars should be small enough so that they cannot stick their heads through it.; because once this passes, the body will follow,” warns the RSPCA. “Rats are masters of the art of stealth and capable of slipping through minimal openings.”
Additionally, rats are very sensitive to odors, light and loud noises, which is why it is emphasized that your home needs to be maintained.”away from strong artificial odors such as air fresheners or smoke“, away from drafts and never under intense or direct light.”Bright light can cause stress and damage your eyesespecially in albino varieties,” they warn.
Their reputation as clean animals does not mean their environment can be neglected. It should be cleaned thoroughly once a week and carried out small spot cleanings every few days. The guide highlights the importance of avoiding scented products and leaving “a handful of soiled nesting materials to preserve familiar smells“, which contributes greatly to their feeling of security.
Shelters are an essential part of rat well-being. These animals, which prefer to feel contact with surfaces when they move, need “permanent access to a safe, dark place where they can hide“The recommendation is that there should always be more shelters than rats, and that they all have multiple exits.
In summary, caring for pet rats ultimately involves understand their sensitivity, their intelligence and their need for control over their environment. Far from the old myths, they are neat, clean and surprisingly delicate animals, so offering them a suitable home is, in addition to a commitment to well-being, a way of discovering their true character.
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