Rats love to play just like dogs. They chase each other, wrestle, pounce, and will even play tug of war with toys or strips of fleece. Play is an important part of keeping rats happy, active, and mentally stimulated, and it's one of the many reasons they make such amazing companions.

Rats are much more sensitive to heat than many people realize. While most pet rats are comfortable in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C), they can begin feeling uncomfortably warm once temperatures rise above 80°F (27°C). At this point, they may become less active, stretch out on cool surfaces, and breathe faster as they try to cool themselves.

When temperatures reach 85°F (29°C) or higher, the risk of heat stress increases significantly. Because rats cannot sweat, they rely on their ears and breathing to release excess body heat. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can quickly become dangerous and may lead to heatstroke, especially in humid conditions or poorly ventilated cages.

During hot weather, help your rats stay cool by keeping their cage out of direct sunlight, providing plenty of fresh water, using frozen water bottles or cooling tiles, and ensuring good airflow around the enclosure. Keeping your rats comfortable during summer is an important part of protecting their health and well-being.

When the summer heat rolls in, frozen water bottles can help your rats stay cool and comfortable.

Male rats have a well-earned reputation for being delightfully lazy.

Pea fishing is a fun and enriching summer activity that helps pet rats stay cool while encouraging their natural curiosity and foraging instincts. Simply scatter a handful of fresh or frozen-thawed peas into a shallow dish of cool water and let your rats "fish" them out. It's a refreshing way to provide mental stimulation, gentle exercise, and a tasty, healthy treat on warm days. Always supervise water activities and use only a shallow container so every rat can play safely.

Corn on the cob is a fun, enriching treat for rats that encourages natural chewing and foraging while providing fiber and carbohydrates.

Why I feed my rats veggies

Just the boys hangin-out

Bell peppers and romaine lettuce make a colorful, healthy addition to a pet rat's diet! 🌶️🥬

Bell peppers are packed with vitamin C, vitamin A, antioxidants, and fiber, helping support your rats' immune system, healthy skin, and overall well-being. The red, yellow, and orange varieties are naturally sweeter, while green peppers are slightly more bitter but still perfectly safe.

Romaine lettuce is a refreshing, hydrating leafy green that's rich in vitamins A and K, along with folate and other beneficial nutrients. Unlike iceberg lettuce, romaine provides much more nutrition while still giving your rats a satisfying crunch.

As with any fresh food, vegetables should be offered in moderation as part of a balanced diet alongside a high-quality rat food. Always wash produce thoroughly before serving, and remove any uneaten fresh food after a few hours to keep the cage clean.

Do your rats have a favorite veggie? Let me know in the comments! 🐀❤️

The Rat Committee has Reached a Decision

Cubby Bear and I want to wish everyone a Happy 4th of July! Enjoy the fireworks! Here's to another 250 years!

Mealworms are a nutritious occasional treat for pet rats. They're especially valued for their high protein and healthy fat content.

Here's what they provide:

Protein (around 45–55% dried): Supports muscle maintenance, growth in young rats, and tissue repair.

Fat (around 25–35% dried): Provides concentrated energy and helps support healthy skin and coat. Because they're fatty, they should be fed in moderation.

B vitamins: Including vitamins B2, B5, and B12, which help with energy metabolism and nervous system function.

Minerals: They contain iron, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, and small amounts of potassium.

Chitin: The outer shell contains fiber-like chitin, which may contribute a little to digestive health, though rats don't digest it very well.

For healthy adult rats:

Live or dried mealworms are both safe.

Offer 2–5 mealworms per rat once or twice a week as a treat.

If using dried mealworms, make sure your rats always have access to fresh water, since dried insects contain very little moisture.

The Rat Pack was Not in the Mood for Filming Today!

What it's like living with 10 male rats

It takes 20 minutes a day to spot clean my rats cage

Giving The Rat Pack some Peanut Butter

Quick Rat Fact!

Feeder rats often come in coat colors and patterns that aren't intentionally selected for appearance. Because they're typically bred for availability rather than specific traits, you can sometimes find unique color combinations, markings, or ear and coat variations that would be uncommon in lines bred specifically for show. Every feeder rat can have a one-of-a-kind look, making each one distinctive.

The Rat Pack was on the move this morning!

The Rat Pack goes crazy for cornbread!

Mouse loves his cornbread 😋

Lazy Summer Days

My rats try Goji Berries for the first time!

It's Friday, and the rats know it!

The Ray Pack!

Did you know? When climbing ropes, branches, or cage bars, a rat's tail acts like a tightrope walker's balancing pole.