Available Fancy Rats
Adopting a Rat: What's Included?
Whether you're adopting a baby or an adult, we want to ensure that you have everything you need. Our adoption package comes with a variety of guarantees and benefits, including a care and info sheet, a health guarantee, a six-month congenital defect guarantee, and a lifetime support guarantee to give you peace of mind. Rats must be adopted in same gender pairs. Our rats are pet only.
Optional Supplies:
We offer hand crafted items to help your new pet settle into their new home, help you with the bonding process, and continue offering all the comforts we offer them. These items are used by us daily and we have adapted our designs to meet the needs of our pet homes.
For handcrafted small pet items, Click here!
Transport / Pickup Options:
Nationwide Transport is available at an additional cost.
Private Transport, up to 150 miles, costs $0.85 per mile, one way.
Local Pickup is free within the city limits of Karnes City, Texas
Page Updated as of: 11/4/2025
Fancy Rat Care
Are you considering getting new pet rats? There is so much to discover and learn about their care. Whether you are a first-time owner or have plenty of experience, this guide will equip you with the crucial care information necessary for keeping your pets in good health and content. We are here to assist you and answer any questions regarding their welfare and health.
Rats are social animals and must be adopted in same gender pairs!
Creating a Cozy Space for Your Furry Friends
Designing a welcoming environment for your pet rats is an essential step to ensuring their well-being. Here is a useful guide for establishing a rat-friendly habitat:
Spacious Cage: Your rats require ample space to explore, exercise, and enjoy themselves! Ensure their cage offers plenty of room.
Comfortable Bedding: Choose materials such as shredded paper, pine, aspen shavings, or fleece liners. Stay away from cedar bedding, as it is harmful to your rats. We use and encourage flake pine.
A Snug Corner: Rats need a cozy space to rest and feel secure. Consider using a large igloo, hideout, or a nest box filled with soft bedding.
Food and Water: Ensure that fresh drinking water and a balanced diet comprising pellets, fruits, and vegetables are easily accessible.
Engaging Toys: Rats are intelligent and inquisitive animals; keep them entertained with toys, tunnels, ropes, and multi-level perches in their environment.
Climbing Equipment: Provide ladders, shelves, hammocks, and ropes to satisfy your rats' natural climbing instincts.
Temperature and Airflow: Maintain a temperature range of 65-75°F (18-24°C) in the cage and ensure it is well-ventilated to avoid respiratory problems.
Always remember that your rats’ dwelling should be shielded from direct sunlight or drafts, and have moderate humidity levels to keep their respiratory health in check.
Emergency Temperature Management
In situations where temperature control is necessary, here are some effective heating and cooling techniques:
Heating Techniques:
Heating Pad: Place it on low outside the cage for a warm retreat, ensuring that all cords and surfaces are out of your rats' reach.
Warm Water Bottle: Wrap a bottle filled with warm water in a towel for your rats to cuddle up with.
Heat Lamp: Use a heat lamp placed outside the cage with a thermostat to provide safe, consistent warmth.
Cooling Techniques:
Relocate the Cage: If it’s too warm, move your rats to a cooler room or closer to an air conditioning unit.
Ice Packs: When wrapped in towels, ice packs can help reduce the temperature within the cage.
Ceramic Tiles: Placing these in the cage can assist in cooling down your rats.
Make sure to keep an eye on your rats when implementing these techniques to ensure their comfort.
Activity and Enjoyment
Engaging your rats is vital for their happiness. A spacious cage with levels, platforms, ropes, and tunnels creates an exciting atmosphere. Allowing them out-of-cage playtime in a secure area can provide additional exercise and exploration. Rats can even be trained to perform tricks, adding mental and physical stimulation!
Bedding Fundamentals
Fleece, pine, and paper bedding are excellent options. Avoid cedar bedding to reduce the risk of respiratory issues. Regular cleaning is crucial for a healthy environment.
Cleaning Guidelines
Utilize mild cleaning solutions like Dawn dish soap, white vinegar, diluted bleach, or chlorhexidine 2% to maintain their environment. Ensure everything is dry before putting back the bedding.
Bathing and Nutrition
Rats generally keep themselves clean but may occasionally require baths. Use a shallow basin with lukewarm water and a safe shampoo. Make sure to dry them thoroughly afterwards. Providing a balanced diet of high-quality rat pellets, along with fresh fruits, vegetables, and clean water is essential.
Bonding Moments
Spending quality time with your rats each day helps foster a strong bond. Offer treats and gentle strokes and engage in playtime using toys and tunnels.
Health Assessments
Conducting regular health checks is crucial for identifying potential health concerns early. Keep an eye out for signs of respiratory problems and monitor their fur and skin consistently. Consult a veterinarian if you observe any changes.
By following these guidelines, you’ll help your pet rats enjoy happy, healthy lives. Cherish your furry companions!