As fuel prices rise and the size of living spaces decrease pocket pets are gaining popularity in society. With rats and mice being known as social, affectionate animals and easy to maintain it makes for a great partnership especially for a first time pet owner. Mice typically have a life span of 2-3 years while rats can live slightly longer, on average, at 2.5 – 3.5 years.
Housing and Hygiene
Rats and mice belong to the rodent family and despite popular belief they are clean animals. Correct housing and hygiene is paramount for both these animals. The ideal ‘apartment’ for your new rodent should be solid and ‘chew-proof’ as rats and mice have strong teeth that can lead to their escape. Mesh cages are a good choice as they offer important ventilation however, you must ensure that they have a solid floor and well fitting doors. Fish tanks are sometimes used as rodents can not climb the walls however, ventilation is poor in these situations and they can easily turn into dangerous hot houses.
Use of an absorbent bedding material helps to prevent an unpleasant smell forming whilst non-toxic and scent-free bedding, such as unscented wood chips or paper based cat litter, helps avoid any respiratory problems developing. For this reason sawdust is best avoided in a rodent cage. To enhance the living quarters of your new pet consider a trip to your local hardware store for some ‘tunnels’ (PVC pipes) or simply recycle toilet rolls or plastic containers which make excellent cubbies. Just make sure that any extra toys in your pets cage are non-porous and have non-toxic coatings on them. Most pet shops will have a variety of toys for rodents. Correct hygiene is vital to the well being of these pets – regular cleaning (2-3 times a week) of your pets cage is a must. Rats can be less smelly than mice.
Male mice have a tendency to fight and should be housed separately, whereas rats are more tolerant creatures and may be housed together, males and females. However, as rodents are very competent breeders, especially mice, it is advisable to house males separate to females. Female mice can start breeding from 28 days of age and may produce 10-20 cubs. Rats on the other hand can produce litters of 6-10 cubs. Pregnancy lasts around 3 weeks in rats and after giving birth a female rat only needs 24 hours before she is ready to breed again. If you are considering housing males and females together be sure to separate them well before a pregnant rat is due to give birth. If you are housing more than one rodent also ensure that the cage is not overcrowded as this can lead to the development of certain diseases.
Diet
Hay should be provided for your rodents as it is a good fibre source. It can also double as nesting material in your pets cage. Grains, meat products, cereals and seeds, well washed fresh fruit and vegetables are easy to source while raw bones, such as rib or shank, or other hard foods such as nuts provide a material for your pet to gnaw their teeth on. A length of hard wood can also serve the same purpose. Pet shops stock balanced, commercial rodent diets, which may be easier than making up your own rodent diet, as well as prevent nutritional deficiencies. Rats can eat approximately 5 grams of balanced pellets per 100 grams of bodyweight. For a special treat fresh grasshoppers, crickets or cockroaches can be offered. A fresh, continual, clean water source, as for any pet, is a necessity. If using a dripper tube check it regularly, at cleaning, to make sure it has not become blocked. Use bowls that are chew proof.
Health
Rodents do not require vaccinations however, their general health should be monitored. They are prone to a number of diseases which can be diagnosed by your local vet.
The more common diseases are often seen as a result of poor husbandry. Both rats and mice have continually growing teeth. If they start to become overgrown causing your pet to stop eating they may require trimming which means a trip to see your vet. Another sign of dental problems may be a persistently wet chin, from excessive drooling, known as ‘slobbers’. Respiratory infections are not uncommon amongst rodent populations but can be easily avoided through correct husbandry and hygiene. Rats may present with a discharge from the eyes and nose, sneezing, wheezing or even more general signs such as not eating (anorexia) or decreased energy (lethargic). Staining around the rear end of your pet may indicate an intestinal problem. Both rats and mice have extensive mammary chains and any lump that appears on the body should be checked to ensure it is not cancerous. If you do notice your pet is unwell separate it from any other healthy animals and contact your local vet.
