Pet rats should be kept indoor and their cages placed out of direct sunlight and away from draughts. They do not require direct heating and should not be placed on top of radiators or other heaters. The normal household temperature is suitable for a rat.

Rat's cages are usually made of metal or glass as rats have a tendancy to chew other materials. Mouse or hamster cages are not suitable for a rat. Alternatively a large glass aquarium would be suitable as long as it is fitted with a small guage metal mesh or gauze lid to prevent the rat from escaping.

Inside their cage they should have at least one shelf placed at least one third up. The shelves should be solid and easily cleaned. In addition tree branches, ladders, ropes and tubes can be placed in the cage. This will aid the rat's natural instinct to climb and explore. They should also have a shelter like a cardboard box e.g. an empty tissue box in which it can sleep.

The floor of the cage should be covered with a layer of sawdust, granulated paper or something similar, which will absorb urine and will equally be kind to your rat's feet. Fullers Earth or cat litter is not suitable. Wood shavings mixed with sawdust can also be used. Soft nesting material like hay, tissue, shredded paper or something similar must also be provided so that your rat can mek a warm nest. Do not use artificial fibres like nylon for nesting materials as these could entangle your pet and may be dangerous if eaten.

Always approach your animal quietly and confidently, especially in the early weeks as it gets to know you and becomes tamed. Speak to them in a calm voice to calm them. When handling an animal it is important for them to feel secure, so handle them firmly without squeezing them. Animals soon get used to being handled well and rats in particular enjoy human contact.

When picking up a rat place your thumb and forefinger around their neck with the palm of your hand across their shoulders, place the remaining fingers around their chest to help when lifting the animals. As your pet grows heavier, use your second hand to support the rat as you lift. Alternatively a younger rat can be 'scooped' up by cupping your hands around them.