Where To Buy A Pet Rat

                Wondering where to buy a pet rat? Sometimes, the many options can confuse a potential rat owner as to where to buy a pet rat. There are many options, from: Rat Breeders, Ratteries, Rat Rescues, Adoption Events, Rat Shows, Pet Shops, and even people who are trying to rehome their pet rats. Now, your original question (“Where to buy a pet rat”) has been answered; it’s only a matter of location, time, and cost!

                If you are looking for a low priced pet rat, then you may want to view pet rats that are looking for new homes by owners or rescues. These rats will even cost more than pet shops, because they are avoiding people who own snakes (who will try to feed them the pet rats). Pet shops do not care as to what happens to their pet rats after purchase, after all, the snakes need to eat too. However, it is appalling to see a sweet, loving rat go into the jaws of a snake. These rats may not have much information on their past or genetics; although you may find pedigreed rats with owners who need to rehome them due to personal problems.

                Another great option is to seek out hobbyist rat breeders, pet quality ratteries, and adoption events. These rats will usually be of impeccable pet quality, and can have genetic and health information along with ancestral records. These will usually come from well established breeders who have raised at least 3 generations. You can usually assume that the temperament of the animal will be incredible, as long as the rat comes from a reputable breeder. When most think of “where to buy a pet rat”, these are the first options to come to mind.

                However, if your variation of the question is “where to buy a pet show rat”, well, pedigreed ratteries and rat shows are the answer! Pedigreed ratteries who adhere to show standards will be able to supply you with a show quality pet rat. However, they can be VERY pricey! You may be looking at a price tag of $40.00 to over $200.00, depending on the variety. Rat shows can be great places to find many show rats on sale in one place, with their prices being slightly lowered to increase the likelihood of sales for older rats and kits.

                With the transition from “Where to buy a pet rat” to “Which place will I buy a pet rat from”, you can now debate on which of these options works best for you. It is personally recommended to find a homeless, rescued, or near-homeless rat to give a loving home to. Most times, these rats are absolute sweethearts, but just as dogs and cats, no one seems to want to love them. Please make a wise and well thought choice, and I hope you enjoy your new rat!