The Rat Lady's Rescue Rats

I fell in love with a distinguished albino rat when looking at his profile on the Humane Society’s website.

He’d been at the shelter for several months and I wasn’t sure if I’d be ready for a pet yet, but when things were going well at my job I knew it was time to take the plunge and rescue this sweet little guy.

I admit I didn’t know a lot when I first got him – I just wanted to give him a quiet home as he’s always been sensitive and not fond of children or other pets.

I got him a rat starter cage from Petsmart (which I learned isn’t big enough for an adult rat). As I did more research, I learned that rats need:

A) A larger cage

B) At least one other rat friend of the same gender (preferably two more friends at minimum)

C) More enrichment in the cage

He was quite shy but also curious enough to start exploring a few nights after I got him, He also slept in his hammock which was in an open space so he seemed to feel comfortable right away! He must have appreciated the quiet! Especially since I was out most of the day so he had some time to settle in.

He was flagged as having a bite issue but the girls at the shelter assured me it’s because he can’t see well so he thought the finger was food. I was careful not to pet or handle him too early on but he took treats from me from the first day!

On his free roams, he didn’t poop once and it made me smile at how curious he was (and still is). My attempts at keeping him in a small play pen were all for naught as he’s too smart and found a way out after a few sessions. 🤣

It’s always such a joy to watch an older rescue happily sniff around and explore a room taking treats then going back into his cage.

That’s something which really impresses me to this day how he will go back to his cage when he’s ready. Even though it wasn’t always the best home, he sees his enclosure as home.

I’m so happy I have him. My goal is to make his life the happiest ever.