You will find rats and mice are just as cute and cuddly as a cat or dog and are also very intelligent so they are able to be trained. Generally they are nocturnal animals but you will find that they will adjust to your routine in order to be social when you’re available (ie. after school/work). These is little difference in personality types between males and females, however females tend to be more popular as they tend not have the same musky odour as males. If you notice that your pets enclosure is particularly smelly then it probably needs to be cleaned more regularly, generally once a week should be enough and change of bedding every few days.

As with most other pets it is always best to have two for companionship when you’re not around, however be sure to either have to rats or two mice (don’t mix the species as they don’t get along). Another important thing is to make sure you either have two males or two females, as both rats and mice are very effective breeders and give birth to large litters.

As for housing aquarium style enclosures are best or cages with a solid bottom and partial side, otherwise they can be hard to clean and maintain. Both rats and mice will require a feed dish and water bottle, (bottles are best because they ensure your pets water is clean and it doesn’t get knocked over) it is also probably a good idea to include a wheel or other toys to make sure your pet has plenty to keep it occupied. You will also need to provide some sort of bedding for your pet in the form of shavings etc. As for diet you should be able to get rat/mice pellets from your local pet supplier which are the best, you can also give some green salad type vegies or other raw vegies in small amounts with the pellet food. Be sure not feed your pet human junk foods in particular as some can’t be digested and can lead to health problems.