Rats and Mice
These rodents tend to be the most misunderstood. The stigma behind them is often unwarranted, since both mice and rats are intelligent and affectionate. On average, a mouse’s lifespan is 1.5 to 2 years, whereas a rat will live about 2 to 3 years. Rats and mice that are sold as a “fancy” variety tend to sport longer lives since they have been bred more purposefully.
Both mice and rats come in an array of colors and combinations. Different hair types are seen too, with smooth coats being the most common. However, you may also come across long-haired, rex, and hairless varieties. Their temperaments will vary, but most are very sweet and curious. It’s actually fairly easy to teach these rodents tricks!
Their home should be suited to their adult size. Obviously, a rat will require a larger space than a mouse will. If you have an open, wired cage, keep in mind how far apart the spacing is between the bars. These rodents are masters of escape and won’t pass up an opportunity to slip through.
Paper bedding keeps these pets comfortable and cozy, as does providing them with plenty of places to sleep and hide. A weekly bedding change will keep their cages tidy, but more cleaning will be required if you keep multiples in the same cage. Both mice and rats tend to be quite social, so keeping them in same-sex groups is not unheard of.
However, care should be taken when keeping males together, and it is never recommended to house rats with mice.
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