21 things you should know before owning rats!

[@oscurot]

In sweden, it's against the law to house a single rat. Great video, learning a lot from your channel

[@TeeKoon]

@Ratopedia Swiss have good laws too, you must have two rats no less and a large cage and you must care about them, in 1992, Switzerland became the first country to constitutionally recognize animals, with a constitutional provision warranting the protection of "the dignity of the creature"! source wiki

[@happyfurhammies6539]

@Ratopedia in germany you actually have to house rabbits and guinea pigs in pairs ( I'm from america I'm just saying)

[@CreepyMcSteezerson]

Only law we have here is that you can't have more than 10 (in NYC)

[@CreepyMcSteezerson]

@Ratopedia right? I had a Skype friend living there (this was when I was 17... I'm 33 now) and even their housing laws make more sense. You can afford a flat working at McDonald's. The whole "living wage" thing actually exists there!

[@justina5213]

@Ratopedia bc its like 100 years ahead of other countries

[@kailynfreeman3764]

#22 - the amount of zip ties you will end up buying is sky high

[@sinandcyanide7505]

Haha I just got 200 in the mail yesterday. I ran out setting up a new cage.

[@Just-Darcy]

And c clips lmao

[@katelynolar5574]

I keep going back to the store for more 😆

[@tanyakettell4109]

Ugh so true!!!!!

[@zoeyvalazquiz8693]

dollar tree is a life saver

[@Ellie_S]

Time stamps: 1:06 1. Rats have to live in groups. 3:28 2. Baby rats need same age company. 4:49 3. Where you get them from is important. 6:18 4. Rats have short life spans. 6:43 5. Rats are a long term commitment. 7:29 6. Rats are not cheap easy pets. 8:03 7. Rats are prone to a lot of health issues. 8:52 8. Rats can have behavioural issues. 10:08 9. Rats do play fight. 10:36 10. Rats need a lot of space. 11:23 11. Rats need enrichment. 12:18 12. Not every rat is going to be cuddly. 13:07 13. Male & female rats have different personalities. 13:41 14. Rats produce porphyrin. 14:10 15. You can be allergic to rats. 15:09 16. You don't have to bathe your rats. 15:40 17. Rats do something called boggling. 16:20 18. What you feed your rats is important. 16:42 19. Rats sent mark. 17:10 20. Rats are crepuscular. 17:50 21. Do not let your rats mix with other animals.

[@kbradleyk]

Thank you so much for providing this comment 😀

[@andreagonzales5584]

Thank youuu

[@Icantchangemyhandlehelp]

Thank you

[@stellabelikiewicz1523]

I love “prepuscular” as a typo, because it’s making me picture a group of rats that has that one guy who’s always wanting to get everybody up BEFORE dawn and dusk and everybody else just rolls their eyes 😄

[@croissant_moon]

DOING THE LORDS WORK

[@leopardgeckotalk]

This was super interesting. I always think rats and so cute and smart but I don’t think I could deal with them getting sick and living short lives 😭. I will live my rat live vicariously through your channel 😆

[@itsruby..]

I was just watching your videos a minute ago lol

[@teijaflink2226]

That seems to be the hardest thing with rats, specially as you probably create a deeper bond with them because they are so social and intelligent. I wish someone could create a rat that at least lives 5 years as 2 years is nothing. I doubt I could cope with this.

[@gamingoncloud9528]

@@teijaflink2226 they can live longer with great care and if they live a strong, healthy and happy life:)

[@lannawebb1562]

@@gamingoncloud9528 When you say longer...

[@unknownhuman5873]

@@lannawebb1562 mine lived 3 and 3 1/2yrs and were pretty healthy despite being from a pet store (I was young and my mom didnt know any better)

[@Radispi]

I had a rat that lived to about 3.5 years. He was such a sweet boy and I still love him all these years later. Always thought he was like an 80 year old towards the end, but now I know he lived to be a 100

[@Emiology]

3.5 is an amazing age!

[@Radispi]

Thanks 😊 They were all very loved, and I am looking forward to get new ones now that I've moved out of my parents place. Btw, does the "no baths" rule include naked rats? Cause I've heard mixed information/opinions on this. My old boy was naked as could be and I sometimes bathed him.

[@Emiology]

Yep, same skin and levels of stress, you can help them out a bit by rubbing certain oils onto their skin though instead of bathing

[@Radispi]

Ok I thought you should do both. Will remember this in the future

[@fairboxie]

I had a rat that lived 3 years for sure. Sweet boys

[@alceek6905]

PLEASE LOOK INTO THE PLACES THAT YOU GET YOUR RATS!!! I cannot stress that enough. I got my current boys from a backyard breeder because I didnt know any better. They are still great pets, but they dont do well with human contact and I've had to work with them for months to get to the point where they'll chill on my shoulder when I'm right next to their cage. These boys were never held before I got them, now they have such a hard time interacting with people. Please, PLEASE, research where you get your pets.

[@hannahdayton9563]

I couldn’t agree more, I got two boys from an accidental litter. She tricked me. They both had respiratory infections when I got them and one of them died. I only have one boy for the time being but I’m getting two new ones very soon.

[@oriank7409]

What's the difference between a backyard breeder and a good breeder?? Like how can you tell the differences??

[@Jade-zu4ru]

@@oriank7409 A good breeder will look into the quality of the rats they breed, in order to breed more good quality rats (health wise). A good breeder has had experience owning rats and knows how to look after them, they will interact and create bonds with the rats and the rittens, they have access to a good vet that specializes in exotic animals, including rats to keep the rats' health in check, good breeders provide large enclosures with things to keep the rats entertained, the rats are allowed time to free roam, etc. A backyard breeder is someone who will purchase two rats of the opposite sex from a random pet shop, have them breed a lot of cute rittens, the poor rats will have to live in a tiny enclosure with nothing to do, the breeder won't care for their wellbeing, etc. Essentially, a good breeder breeds for quality where as a backyard breeder breeds for quantity.

[@outbound2672]

Right fair enough, but I've had more rats from good proper breeders that have been seriously ill compared to pets at home

[@darkfury24]

I'm getting my rats from a good breeder

[@abith]

One of my older boys passed away earlier this year, and the brother he left behind was really sad. We got two new babies but he didn't really like them or want to form a relationship. Interestingly enough, his mood did drastically improve once we got those rats, even though he wasn't interacting with them.

[@iamlost2]

awwww but LOL

[@ailajay1582]

Really, not even a thousand views yet??? You’re a really great KZbinr. I don’t understand how people who have horrible pet care get millions of views within the first hour, yet the KZbinr with the very best care is ignored.

[@sinandcyanide7505]

Very sad that more people don't realize how great this channel is.

[@peacefulpeaches8350]

I love her and she gives lots of information

[@tanyakettell4109]

Make sure you share her videos. It helps get her out there.

[@magdacovaliu1723]

Aila Jay it’s 8000 now which is better than nothing, but she should definitely get more recognition!

[@rosairedaigle7816]

Probably not "cute" enough

[@cats5354]

I love that you keep advocating for rats being housed with others! All the groups and things I am on people make excuses all the time and don’t take care of their precious pets!!!

[@Emiology]

My DMs are full of people making excuses and I’m sure the comment section will be soon!

[@sylvie_on]

yeah! unless your rat is insanely territorial and will kill other rats (even if they have been neutered) they HAVE to have cagemates! if you say “i can only afford one” you shouldn’t even own one in the first place. it’s a good idea if you go have a aggressive one to just have other rats in the room so they can smell each other, even if they don’t interact.

[@debayeuxchats5607]

@@sylvie_on Saying that you can't afford more than one always baffles me. Most cages that you can get for one rat can house two. Most treats and wood chews are fairly cheap, and enrichment is easy to DIY for for low amounts. A rat itself costs maybe $20. Bedding is easy to stretch by supplementing with fleece. So the only thing that's truly doubling is food? I've seen people say, on average, a 5lb bag of pellets lasts two rats for one month, so if we use that then you're paying around $20 on the main food, let's round up to $25. If that's too expensive for you then I question your ability to afford one rat

[@sinandcyanide7505]

I don't think there are many (if any) excuses for it. I ended up with a tiny baby that my baby ball python wouldn't eat (I tried live because she hadn't taken food in a long time) and I knew nothing about rats. Went straight to KZbin and Reddit on how to care for her and I went and got her a friend the next morning because that's what they need. I knew having to keep her was a possible risk and was prepared to adjust accordingly. Now I have 4 adults and a whole mess of babies who will be ready for permanent homes soon. I love them.

[@sinandcyanide7505]

@@debayeuxchats5607 that's baffling. I'm perpetually broke and handle feeding all of mine just fine. I agree that if you can't care for two, you probably can't care for one.

[@sophiapebbles]

Yessss, one of my "regrets" with owning rats was not getting them the cage they currently have right away (I have a savic suite royale). I bought a perfectly large enough cage at first thinking I'd be fine with it and thinking that the bigger cages were far too expensive. Within about a month I realised that without the huge opening doors it was incredibly hard to bond with my rats and clean them out. I ended up spending more money on a new cage which i'm super happy with but yeah, totally not worth me buying the "starter" cage to begin with! My advice to new owners would definitely be just to save for a pet planet cage or a savic suite cage, they're really good and theres a reason so many people love them and in the long run you'll save money x

[@LulaMae21]

Or a Critter Nation in the US. I started out with a smaller but adequate cage and if I did it over, would just have gone for the CN to start with. Much easier to clean and accessorize!

[@terryearnshaw2580]

Hi guys, thinking of getting rats for the first time so I’ve been doing research before I make a decision, I’ve found a cage similar to the one that emi has (with the 6 rats in), but I was only thinking of getting 2 or maybe 3 rats, can the cage be too big, would that be an issue? Also would you guys recommend getting 3 as a new owner or is that too many? I’d really like like any advice as a new owner before I make the decision please

[@sophiapebbles]

@@terryearnshaw2580 hey! it's great to hear you're doing research before getting rats! :) so i don't think there's any cage that's too big for rats, they will use all the space you give them; the bigger the better. just remember to make it a busy and interesting cage for them too, with lots of things to climb on, different textures, foraging toys, and places to hide, dig and play, etc. personally i started with 3 rats and found it absolutely fine. i think 3 is better than 2, because the dynamics of a group work better when there are more rats and it also means if (god forbid) a rat passed away early, your other rat won't be left alone. if you have any other questions feel free to get back to me:)

[@terryearnshaw2580]

@@sophiapebbles thank you for replying, don’t worry I’ve already been shopping for accessories lol, I’ve got a £50 Amazon voucher to use so I’ll get plenty with that lol, I think I’ve got the cage, I’ve also found what seems to be a reputable breeder, just waiting for lockdown to end so I can get it all together. Thank you

[@softball_kiki8506]

@@terryearnshaw2580 so there is no way to have to big of a cage as long as you have more than one but you should make sure you use your space very well dont overfill

[@emmap3542]

I got my rats a few weeks ago and it feels like I've had them forever haha. I'm watching this to see if I experience any of this.

[@ailajay1582]

I don’t have any rats or mice, but I am an animal lover, and plan to own quite a few of them in the near future, and I’m real big on getting a few months worth of research for each individual animal, so I may be able to give you some advice. For free roaming, you really just want to have a somewhat large area for them to be able to run around freely. Block off any spaces you don’t want them in. The space can be a large, well lit walk in closet, or part to all of a certain room. Also, for me, I use this method with my ferret, the whole day, I leave her cage open with my door shut, so I. The daytime, my room is her room. All I really had to do, is pick up and vacuum all of the tiny pieces they may be able to fit in their mouth. But ferrets are much bigger animals than rats, so make sure to do some research of your own. :)

[@RS-wl4ej]

Me too Emma P, but I've had mine a few months now :)

[@kadypratten4015]

Same here lol

[@JL-wd2kg]

I really enjoyed the video, however, a warning about the PETA videos would have been nice. It was very upsetting to see

[@josephinefaoro7414]

I came into the comments to say this. That video and the information should be seen and known but that video was horribly disturbing to see without knowing I was going to view it. :( I don't have the time this morning to have a cry, I was just hoping to review some rat information

[@MaryGold-il4cl]

Yes, a heads up would have been appreciated. Great info though!

[@taymc407]

Came here to say this. I often watch informative pet care videos like this with my young kids as an educational tool (and because I personally really like pet-tube). Really thankful I decided to watch this one while they weren't around because normally if I'm watching Emiology or other pet-tubers on my own and my youngest happens to notice UNLESS I already know or suspect it's not going to be an age-appropriate video I let them sit with me and take a look. This one absolutely blindsided me. Really glad my kids weren't around because even my adult self had difficulty with that footage.

[@eldritchcupcakes3195]

@@taymc407 what video?

[@taymc407]

@@eldritchcupcakes3195 The one(s) with the rats drowning. I was knitting as I listened to this video and just happened to look up to see the Peta footage. I wasn't looking up during the first Peta clip so I had no idea this would be anything but cute rat footage of her pets or PowerPoint information. The first Peta clip is still distressing but mild by compared to the ones that come later. I have to make informed decisions about the media I consume not only because I have little kids that like to sneak out of their beds at nap/bedtime but also for my own mental health. That footage messed me up for a short while, had I been struggling with an episode my reaction would have been worse. One of those things where a trigger warning would have been nice. (edit: spelling)

[@bowsercastle4612]

So glad you mentioned not separating rats if they're ill. One of my rats had a small infection and my vet told me to seperate them. My rat, Milo, was so distressed being separated he just hid for the hour I kept it up. I hated seeing him like that so I contacted Isamu rats and she told me not to seperate. Never seperate for illness it makes them so sad! (Also Milo is fine now 😂)

[@xenon662]

My rats name is Milo as well!!

[@iamlost2]

@@xenon662 My rat is Beneri the VIII. He was named Ben before MJ named his, plus mine are in a long line of Bens, as you can see by their numbers, though they were Benji I, II, III, etc. and so aka various Benz, Beni, Benge, etc.

[@Biteme1362]

I regret to say that I did purchase a lone Rat However, a few months (I'm sorry, I didn't know) later, I found an abandoned 6 week old little boy and now he and my big boy are bestest friends and absolutely adore eachother ❤️

[@cakeeeetime]

Everybody makes mistakes :) It's awesome you fixed it! Just keep up learning about your pets. There will always be ways to get better.

[@aw5717]

glad u got him a friend... but just remember for the future before getting any new pet it is crucial to do research BEFORE getting them. all it takes is watching a quick video like this (that part isn't directed at u since u learned that, just commenting so others will see this and know).

[@reeseelizabeth2889]

This happened to me but only because I had a unique situation. Im in school to become a veterinary technician and a class we take is laboratory animals. One of our assignments was to take home a rat or a mouse for 2 weeks to learn husbandry skills, and then we got to choose to keep them after. I kept mine and he was alone for a couple of months because I didn't have the space for a larger rat cage. I do now have the space but after getting another rat, they don't get alone/: Im not sure what to do.

[@sophiemr1]

@@reeseelizabeth2889 I have to say my daughter had two pet rats at two separate times...so one at a time.She spent a great deal of time with them . ...real companions..and they were both very happy rats.,,very affectionate and playful..So it cant always follow.

[@TheSickjits]

@@sophiemr1 I had an albino one eyed rat from a Petsmart as a kid that lived almost 3 years. Not knowing much back then she was a lone rat but I believe me spending so much time with her helped alleviate that social pain and give her a longer life span. She was an exception in every bit of the word. I gave her lots of free roam time and she eventually just started coming back to hang out with me. We would sleep together. She would sleep on my pillow or crawl around in my bed. If i moved and squished her she would squeak and nip me. Doing my research on rats now I realize how rare she was and how lucky I was to have found her.

[@sage7441]

I'm getting rats veryyyy soon and i clicked on this video SO FAST

[@luckydays9341]

Lol me too

[@wybiefletcher6739]

Good luck

[@maybenott6]

Samee! I'm getting my boys in 5 weeks and I've never been so excited!!!🐀🐀

[@jacky2201]

Me too!! Getting a pair of boys in two weeks ❤️

[@CynthiaPrice79]

People need to know about using aspen or low-dust paper bedding, and never using pine or cedar.

[@RatRandomness]

pine is one of those things that is going to have a lot of back and forth, sort of like feeding a mix or not. But yes I don't understand how cedar is still even sold. It's so bad for all animals. I personally use kiln dried pine. After reading lots of studies (not pet mom blogs and forums) I feel very comfortable with my decision. That said I had a group of rats previously who had to be on fleece as anything else was simply so dusty they got chronic URI's. So there's always rats that need something special. (but never cedar)

[@CynthiaPrice79]

Misc. Mischief pine is specifically bad for rats and mice. Rats, for the same reason as cedar. The chemicals irritate the respiratory tract and exacerbate myco.

[@CynthiaPrice79]

Misc. Mischief and unless you have lab rats, they have myco.

[@RatRandomness]

@@CynthiaPrice79 In the US Kiln dried pine is perfectly safe and about the only thing sold in stores. I'd be happy to provide scientific document links showing that it is safe and one of the best options available. I have quite a few of them. For mice I refer to other experts as I do not have mice and don't desire to in the future. But one of the studies was specifically for mice and also showed pine to be the best for ammonia control. Once kiln dried the phenols are dissipated to safe levels and shouldn't irritate a well bred rat. Yes all rats have myco, but in rats that are bred for health this shouldn't be an issue. There are always exceptions of course and that is why we have to know our animals. However for the overall vast majority kiln dried pine is just as safe as aspen, and hemp. I can't ever support using carefresh or paper bedding for rats as I've seen too often how badly it controls ammonia, and people get sick rats that have to be rushed to the vet for it often. :(

[@CynthiaPrice79]

Misc. Mischief aspen shavings and other options are pretty widely available here (Oregon), in my experience.

[@PrettyParodys]

I had a girl live till three and another girl is on her way to 3. Honestly would set this as a max age for most rats with anything beyond being extremely rare. Most rats Ive had make it to around the 2 year marker and then they usually develop health issues. My girl Zari made it to 3 but then quickly developed mammary tumors and passed in a couple months. Just make sure you spend a lot of time with your rats, they really are awesome little creatures even if they dont live very long

[@nekothecat8418]

It's sad to say that my pet gerbil August sadly passed away two days ago, but you have cheered me up! Thank you for making this wonderful channel!! ❤️❤️

[@Ola-fl6ut]

That's sad

[@Ruby-hm8yd]

Rip she will be missed

[@nekothecat8418]

@@Ruby-hm8yd he but thank you so much

[@alexholmquist9298]

My mouse passed away on Friday so I understand how you feel :(

[@shfhjdhdudyevrv]

I’m so sorry my 3 gerbils are sending you love and condolences ❤️💕

[@brystalmelzer5722]

oh my lord ): those peta clips shattered my whole entire heart...

[@rosairedaigle7816]

Yep...

[@ralarattery1846]

The videos of the flooded tubs really hit me. To think those poor kittens drowned while the doe just had to sit there helpless in (what I imagine is) freezing cold water, and people fund that. It's just too sad. Great video by the way, thanks for spreading the info ❤️

[@Emiology]

Sorry for the sad clips! (feel like i need to apologise because I forgot to add a disclaimer) but i just wish people would realise what these poor rats, especially the parents, have to go through :(

[@ralarattery1846]

@@Emiology no, no need to apologize, I see this sort of thing a lot trying to let others know about how awful the industry is, just never seen flooded tubs like that. It's great that you're spreading so much awareness. At least the people who have seen this video can't now buy rats from a chain petshop and blame it on ignorance.

[@ralarattery1846]

@@Emiology it's so annoying though, if the rats had even the bare minimal care and treated with even a little respect, this could have so easily been prevented.

[@tinybabypie]

I’ve had my baby girl for less than a month and this video was a good wake up call that she needs a friend. Thank you

[@Rat-tea]

I just met the two sweetest brothers at a rescue shelter who were dropped off from a family that had to move in with someone who wouldn’t allow rats. One of them is a little curios escape artist and the other a shy sleepy boy. They come with a huge four story cage and tons of toys for only 100$!! I’m so excited we are picking them up on in two days. This was really helpful and I just wanted to tell somebody about my further rats

[@F907.]

I have 4 little girls (sisters) they have an big cage and I take them out often! Their cage has an active layout with foraging toys, and at the bottom a deep layer of appropriate bedding with hidden treats! and I change the layout except the zip tied things twice a week. They absolutely enjoy the new layouts! And explore it al the time! They have a LOT of chew toys, and hammocks and stuff, I try to give them the best life I can provide. And your videos have helped me so much! Thanks.

[@antsy._.artist778]

Thank you for all the videos you make about rats specifically! There aren't that many creators who make rat-centric content so your channel is just amazing to learn exactly how to care for them. I just visited my soon-to-be rat babies yesterday! :) I'm adopting them from a petting zoo/farm, their set up was amazing- the cage for all the rats was absolutely massive and so well put together. I'll be picking them up in 4 weeks! Thanks again for everything, all your vids are so helpful.

[@kayeighrat9854]

I feel like I've been so lucky with my rats they were litter trained the day the came home (they even pee in the litter box!) they rarely chew with the expection of they're alotted chew toys, and they just turned two with no illnesses yet. They were from a rescue. ❤

[@izubla1]

WOW thats really cool and lucky

[@dc4lcorkscrewpatdaGIGA]

ya as do mine they matured fast I mean they are young mature but not with them they will remain to live older

[@RatRandomness]

even litter trained rats scent mark. But being litter trained is lovely and helps keep the cage cleaner for sure!

[@RandomPerson-nh6ow]

My rats just poop everywhere who knows if they will ever be litter trained

[@kingraptor11]

Soooo, we aren’t gonna talk about death sleeping?! I’ve only had my girls a few months and OH MY GODD, the amount of times I’ve thought they’d died. Sometimes björk will just splay out upside down with her eyes open and won’t move till i actually touch her belly

[@Sputterbug]

ok sorry i know its scary but lmao that position just sounds so funny and cute, like shes messing with you

[@ash1rose]

This is really good advice and I really love all of your videos. The "cuddly" thing is something people really need to know. Every rat is going to have a different personality I'd assume just like people. I have cats and my one is super friendly and cuddly but hates being picked up. My other is not as cuddly with me but prefers my husband, and my first cat who was my heart liked me holding him. It really does depend, but not animal deserves less care because they're not cuddly.

[@nephelles.7226]

Emi, I really wanted to thank you for all your videos! When I first stumbled upon your them, I had just gotten a little rat (just one) and I've learned so much since then! I now have 5 girlies in a huge huge cage and they're so happy, healthy and playful. I always rush over when I see you've uploaded a new video, you're amazing!

[@lilydewinters4729]

Okay, so this just made a huge difference of my knowledge of rats, even though I’ve had one as a child. I just rescued a baby rat from Rescue yesterday, so now I’m going to try and see if I can rescue another one at the same age so that she has a companion. I’ve already learned so much about set up cage, size, food, bedding, things that I didn’t know before…all good stuff, thank you!!!!❤

[@heyday3150]

I'm not even getting a rat anytime soon, I just really, really appriciate rats for existing

[@bree3755]

I am getting two rats in a week! It is hard to hear that people house them alone...

[@CynthiaPrice79]

My very first rat was a loner, but he had free roam of my bedroom, and went almost everywhere with me. His cage was only closed for special situations that might be dangerous to him if he were out and about.

[@maybenott6]

Hope it's all going well!

[@bonbonboy666]

@@CynthiaPrice79 it doesnt matter, that rat still needed a friend.

[@sophiemr1]

I have to say my daughter had two pet rats at two separate times...so one at a time.She spent a great deal of time with them . ...real companions..and they were both very happy rats.,,very affectionate and playful..So it cant always follow.

[@CritterGirl]

Those video clips almost had me in tears :( I'll never understand how people can let animals be treated that way...

[@Cheese-vs2yo]

It’s so good just to get home and see emi has uploaded

[@ashleysparks2974]

I grew up with rats, my childhood was always loaded with rats lol. I am recently ratless (no rats) and i am missing owning them, they’re super precious and sweet animals. I am buying my rats through a well trusted breeder.

[@madisonpaige6371]

Do you have any tips for mice with tumors? We discovered recently that she had a tumor, but the vet said that she is too old to have the removal surgery. Do you have any tips for keeping her comfortable and/or keeping her weight up?

[@thatonemessyartist1760]

I had a simular experience with one of my rats, I just tried to make him comfortable. He had a tumor on the side of his neck, so after a while, it became hard for him to lay down or eat, so I suggest trying to make a comfy spot for them to sleep. I mashed up his food with water, or gave him foods that were easy to chew. I really hope that they do okay! I'm sure there's videos on stuff like that, so keep trying, and hopefully you'll find something helpful.

[@JoJo-dv1rz]

I'm getting two baby rats tomorrow. I'm getting sisters and I'm so excited! I wanted to do lots of research before getting them.

[@onionsoup7639]

Omg, this video has perfect timing I’ve been thinking about getting rats and I’m currently doing research.

[@teletersi]

I had a situation abt 2 weeks ago where I was getting two more rats for my current mischief they scammed me and only gave me one,, he’s the sweetest thing ever and I’m working on introducing him to my current rats and your intro video helped me ^^

[@hinata111494]

I have been a long time rat owner and currently my oldest is currently almost 4

[@squizitzithatsitalianforyu4782]

Wow! 😀 What did you feed them? Check out my animal videos @ Squizitzi that’s Italian for yummy 😋

[@SkaterCassOfish]

hey!! i just got my rat babys a few days ago and your videos helped me be able to get things in order so thank you! and i hope you see this comment! :D

[@lilshortierobloxxzz8266]

I do agree that they should most definitely be housed with other rats, We unfortunately went to the pet store when we brought our first babies and they got sick at about the age of 1 year , Mason went down hill very fast and passed away his brother Jason got better with antibiotics but the vet said he only had a couple of weeks if lucky. We decided to give Jason the best couple of weeks a rat could ever have, Jason lived to 3 years of age. He was the most loving loyal best friend I could ever have. I'm not sure if Jason even knew he was a rat he did not act like one but he knew we loved him and he was my baby who hang out with me all day everyday (he was uncaged during the day) . He liked to chit chat and be sung to and he would actually watch TV, he loved having his little cup of tea in the morning and sneaking a nap in the laundry basket, He always came when called and never chewed anything he shouldn't have. I never thought I would ever own a rats because I coincided them to be dirty scary animals BUT I was very mistaken. I love you and miss you Jason I think of you everyday you crazy beautiful boy.

[@keylia000]

I’ve been doing research for a year and I’m so happy that I’m finally getting rats for my birthday!! Thank you so much for giving me the information I need to own rats!!

[@lesliem4277]

your shirt is soooo cute

[@ShwintyKat]

Thank you for all your videos! Your previous was my introduction to rat care and the beginning of a very deep dive into researching before I got my three kiddos from a local small animal rescue.

[@yvieclarke5162]

Thank this helped cause I'm getting my rats in 2 to 3 months there was a delay on getting my rats because of everything going on but I arranged it for the next 2 to 3 months

[@crucifiedpix]

have you got your rats? i hope things are going well, rats are lovely pets!

[@nera1536]

I've been researching about rats as pets for almost 2 years now and I'm finally getting them in september. I scored a great deal on a cage and accecories from a girl in my countries rat group. I'm so excited!! Thank you for making videos and educating people on rats and mice!

[@elianafaith8865]

I got my two 8 week old rats yesterday and as I'm watching this video they are curled up alseep in my lap

[@abigailbp9294]

Well done!! I've kept upwards of 25 rats over the years and everything you suggested is spot-on in my experienced opinion. One thing I'd add for new rat keepers is to find a local, reputable, exotic animal vet. They are the only vets (least here in the U.S.) that will treat rats. They are considered exotics so your typical dog and cat vet won't take them. I suggest finding several and calling to confirm that they treat rats and their hours. You'd be surprised how quickly a year or two passes, and before you know it, your rattie is an old man or woman! Once illness sets in it moves quickly, just like everything in a rats life...so having the piece of mind of knowing a vet or vets already saves you time when you might be rather emotional seeing your buddy in dire straits.

[@emilrlane]

Loved seeing Rolo and Sprout in this, I miss them.

[@adriantrajstman]

My brothers hamster just passed away, and he was heartbroken and we are getting him rats He is really happy, and this video really helped Thank you alot

[@aliceb17]

As much as I love rats and find them adorable, number 7 really resonated with me and is likely a deal breaker. I got really upset when I found out my newly adopted bird Rosie had some health issues, and it definitely caused a lot of anxiety - my family was surprised how quickly and strongly I had bonded with her, given my reaction to finding out she had health issues having only adopted her a week before I took her to the vet. I think I'm *exactly* the type of person you are talking about in 7, so as much as I love rats and was thinking about owning some someday, I don't think I'm the right person.

[@mildsyndromes]

I love your channel so much and always come back and rewatch your videos, they have helped me improve my rat care exponentially! I know I was thinking of eventually making a video like this but I am unsure if I will ever get around to making the video, and this can be for just pet care in general: Accountability and responsibility as a pet owner. I know a lot of people get very defensive when others try to approach them and give constructive criticism on their pet care and refuse to change and I think that could be a good video talking about being open as a pet owner to others concerned about your pets welfare when poor pet care may be being provided. I know it is hard for individuals to sometimes accept they are in the wrong and could be providing bad and even dangerous care to their pets, but we all need to learn and grow and understand we make mistakes. I even have examples of mistakes I made in the past, realized accepted them and immediately changed what I was doing because the health, wellbeing and welfare of my pets is more important than my pride.

[@arandaanimations6025]

Thank you so much for making this! I’ve been planning getting two boy dumbos and this was so helpful!💖

[@wombatop4069]

Great topic, people who might get rats can watch and learn something new from this video. Helping them understand what they are getting into before getting rats. I haven't looked back ever since getting my 2 baby girl rats two years ago, they are so damn cute without trying.

[@jennifermorley9836]

I spend almost $400 a month just on Oxbow. Three bags delivered every two weeks. 60 pounds of food. That is just their food bill. Spoiled babies. The clips of neglect make me want to go to chain stores and take all the animals

[@worrmm6670]

How many rats do you have?? :0

[@jennifermorley9836]

@@worrmm6670 30+

[@LulaMae21]

I love Oxbow and started out with it, but my boys got to where they refused to eat it! I was so disappointed lol.

[@007nadineL]

Enjoy eating cat food when yr 70 y o Dummy

[@jennifermorley9836]

@@007nadineL I budget very well.

[@lottieevans3219]

I have rabbits, I k ow a lot about them and your channel helps me understand rodents more! As similar as they are that all enjoy different things!

[@tobyhere9240]

I love you're vids! You're so nice and caring about animals keep up the good work

[@alligator4465]

Doing some research about rats to hopefully get one eventually, and this is very helpful so thank you :) I thought your original video about this was ok tbh, but this is an improvement! SO many people seem to hate or be afraid of rats and it makes me sad. They’re such beautiful and gentle little creatures

[@jonnystrange3617]

You say "get one", just hoping you took away from this lesson the importance of getting more than one at a time.

[@i5336]

Omg! I'm early I love your channel also I'm getting rats In 9 months so I'm researching because I know that there's always more to know💛 also I'm getting them from a shelter

[@fluffypancakes4583]

I’m picking up my first rats on Monday. Been watching all your vids a while and I’ve learnt a lot! Thank you for inspiring me to get them 💜

[@kyliemarler5053]

When i saw those rats died in that gross water i felt like i was ready to have a break down thats just so sad

[@rosairedaigle7816]

Tbh I'm glad they died after being in those conditions. They don't have to deal with it anymore. The rat doesn't have to suffer.

[@ameliehospetata5599]

I LOVE HUMBUG!!! He's so cute and his marking are so cool. Great video, as always!!!!!!!!!!

[@sjeua3754]

Although I'm not ready for a long time commitment, I'd love to own them when I become an adult!

[@zepagamer]

I'm here from your link in the old video. Thanks for leaving it up. It was really helpful. Thank you for the extra info added here also.

[@luckydays9341]

Hey Emiology!! Thanks for hearting my comment it means a lot :3333 Please can you do reacting to rat cages video? I have four girls and have just got them a new huge cage. I’d love to hear your opinion

[@Amy-2202]

I saw my rat Peyton eye boggle for the first time a couple days ago and I cried in excitement because I feel like I can't do enough for my rats and it made me happy that he is happy. He did have an eye infection about a month ago due to stress of me being kicked out and homeless. I'm in a better place now and hope I can give the rats the best place xx

[@thessiv1]

Yes, new video! I have question: I currently have two rat girls and i was wondering if i could get them a new friend. They are 3 months old and are in general very friendly.

[@Emiology]

Yes ☺️ but as I said in the video if you’re getting babies you’ll need to get 2

[@PoptartGang98]

I've already got my rats but I learned a lot from this. I'm getting my rats some more foraging/digging toys and getting a playpen for some out of cage time as we speak.

[@tiffany-ef6gm]

Love this video! I’ve been binge watching your videos all day :)) could I just ask where do you get most of your rat stuff from? I’m really wanting to get some more stuff for my two males and I’m about to get two more as rescues.

[@Emiology]

Either zooplus, pet planet or my own store ☺️

[@lozziprincess]

Thank you so much for all of your videos! I'm getting 2 boys from a breeder at the end of this month, and your videos have been super helpful with preparing for them! ❤️❤️

[@stephaniemarler9601]

The clips of the rodent mills are shattering. 💔

[@josiehowells5771]

The biggest thing people need to realise is just how much you will fall in love with your rats! I recently rehomed 2 beautiful 8 month old girls, their previous owner had done an amazing job socialising them, but sadly didn't have the time to commit to them. I have had rats before, but many years ago, and within 2 days I was in love and now they are costing me a small fortune in treats and toys!! These girls can literally take food out of my mouth! 😂

[@purpleunicorn9351]

A quick question where did you get you're millipedes from? I'm looking for some captive bred ones but I'm struggling to find any ones that i'm interested in. Also congrats for 60k! 🎉 Thanks :)

[@Emiology]

Thank you! Some I got from venomous visions and the others from bugsb4hugs ☺️

[@Willow_1521]

Hello! I may get rats in 2-3 years so watching your videos helps out a lot! Thank you so much for making these videos :)

[@ameliaharvey6433]

my girl rats are crazy. but they are super fun. don’t let them being crazy intimidate you

[@dalescoffeeandpie]

Absolutely brilliant video. I saw you comment below about apologising for not putting a disclaimer about the distressing video clips and I wondered whether you would consider it still? Only asking because my children absolutely adore your videos and all your pets and crave to learn as much as possible about rats - my 12 year old was watching this with me and she decided to close her eyes (i dont sugarcoat things) but i do realise that other children viewing may find it very upsetting. I'll just skip those bits when my 9 year old wants to watch as she understands already the points they are making. Please please dont take this as a criticism and it is YOUR channel and your videos to do with as you wish. Just a little feedback from a fan :)

[@bendyalien]

I have the two most beautiful ratties in the world. They are staying with my cousins at the moment because I am away for 4 days, and this is the longest we’ve ever been away from them. I miss them so much 🥺🥺❤️❤️

[@MyPerfectMischief]

Bendy Alien - it’s rough being away from our babies :( I hope your cousin sends a lot of pictures and daily updates!

[@bendyalien]

My Perfect Mischief yeah she has sent lots of pictures and apparently both ratties are snuggling up together in their hammock so I am glad they are happy 😊

[@flowers-in-the-dust1327]

I am moving flats soon and I really want to own Rats for the first time in my new place. So I am kind of binge watching your rat videos right now to prepare properly and avoid mistakes.

[@zoestafford9193]

Okay, did you know that you look AMAZING in glasses!

[@zoestafford9193]

I have a question, what rat food do you use? My girls have pellets right now, but they are getting bored of them and I would like to scatter feed.

[@LilCraftyNook]

Too funny!! We content creators are so self-deprecating, aren't we?? Congrats on the success!! This is very thorough and very realistic!! Thank you!!

[@Avocetexotics]

I would love to see a mouse version!

[@alexbradshaw2464]

I'm getting rats soon so these videos are super helpful!

[@cosmicbread1086]

I’m trying to to get rats, so I’m doing so much research on costs and care. I doubt I’ll be able to get some, my family hates rodents.

[@LifeAsMelissa]

This video really helped me! I’m getting rats in a week or twos time, and I’ve been doing research and been watching your videos to find out as much as possible before bringing my two girls home. I’ve had a little experience with rats in my teenage years of life, but they were my mums and stepdads rats so I only ever helped to take care of them! So thank you so much for this video, my mums and stepdads two current rats have made me fall in love with rats and made me want to get a couple of my own! 💕💕

[@mycuterats3130]

Is it okay for my rat to bath in water cause he likes to groom himself with water just in a small container

[@Emiology]

Yes giving them the choice to go in water is fine

[@kalenadams1918]

Water for swimming and splashing is fine but don't actually wash them with soap.

[@TrueLofiASMR]

Getting 3 boys on Wednesday 👍👍 Super excited really helpful too 💜💜

[@leakerns452]

I own a dog and I don’t want to have a rat right now because I know it will tortured him and the rat will be very scared. I am sure if u own a dog and a rat that you know it’s ok for your situation but my dog is extremely jumpy when another animal is in the house. I really want to get one at another point in my life 😊 and use reliable videos and websites to educate myself.

[@jojopeachsoda5102]

Please don’t get just one rat, as Emiology said in this video rats need at least a partner.

[@leakerns452]

@@jojopeachsoda5102 I know I meant plural. Have in mind this is an extremely old comment 🙂 I love rats still haven’t had any

[@sheppardspets1030]

I agree that rats are definitely not cheap pets. I spent $200 on my (20 month old) girl’s mammary tumor removal. It has been 4 days since her surgery and she is doing great! My biggest debate is when to add more baby rats to my group of 5 (all 20 months old) since they are starting to get older.

[@unlikewyn]

Say hi to humbug for me!(I don't have a favourite but if I did, it'd be him👀) ♥️

[@orionnecro]

Emily, you are a true blessing for every rat owner. Thank you for this video

[@bones5918]

I always feel kind of bad that I only have two rats because I really want more so my boys can have more friends but it’s just not the most plausible for my living situation right now. Hopefully in the future I’ll have 3 or 4 rats together

[@dailylife9640]

at least you have them together not on their own. Hopefully you can get more in the future ❤️

[@gmcrow1199]

Woah this video was uploaded 9 SECONDS ago! Very excited to watch.

[@welkerfamily7265]

It was uploaded 3 minutes ago for me

[@FinancialAnna]

There are actually rats who have lived up to 7 years. It is EXTREMELY EXTREMELY RARE though. 2-3years is the average but slowly their lifespans are getting longer.

[@sylvie_on]

looks like the breeders are doing a good job!

[@Emiology]

Do you have any proof of this? One report of a rat living to 7 years was proved to be wrong.

[@FinancialAnna]

@emiology a few people in my rat groups have had babies that have lived just shy of 7 years and in the Guinness book of world records the longest living rat was Rodney who lived 7 years and 4 months. I didn't believe it either but this one girl has had several babies who have lived over 6 years (from the same Breeder) I'm not sure of her location. I asked her. I gotta wait until she responds though. Also totally fangirling because you replied to my comment lol

[@Emiology]

@@FinancialAnna Unfortunately apparently the guiness world record rat was proved to be fake / there was no evidence to prove that he had lived that long. Since it's such a bold claim to have a rat live that long and it can amount to disappointment from others expecting their rats to also do the same, I would only be tempted to believe it if someone has time stamped photos etc of the rats as babies and 7 years later as adults, but don't believe everything you read on the internet!

[@FinancialAnna]

@emiology I don't lol. The girl I was talking too did have proof but there's no way to share it on here. But regardless it is extremely rare. I hope some day it becomes the norm.

[@sara073e]

Thank you! This made me think twice, I might wait a while until my daughter is older but it also makes me feel like I'm making more of an informed choice. Im going to book a meeting with a breeder to meet some rats!

[@snuddles6242]

I just got my girlies, someone was rehoming them and they're so cute I love them. I've done my research but I'm still nervous and have been babying them so much lol. I gotta watch this version too to make sure I got everything I'm so nervous alkjeaklh 😼

[@charliegraham6454]

Thank you for the info on keeping your pack going! I’ve been wondering how to best pace it!

[@luckydays9341]

I wish I could subscribe to you again and again lol

[@luckydays9341]

Thank you so much for hearting :3

[@bronwynnford1339]

Idk what happened but I was watching this video with my rat (I have two no worries) and out of nowhere she got zoomies and I thought she was being playful but then I realized the zoomed instantly towards cover and when I put her in my blanket she went to the corner, I was scared and confused and thought maybe there was some sound in the background with your animals, but now she’s acting all weird and her sister is a little too, maybe she just got startled, she’s generally very shy but it’s not like her to get like this, did anybody else have this experience? I was close to the beginning of the video at like 1:35 or something

[@banina1836]

my local pet stores work together with breeders so I think ''don't buy from pet stores'' doesn't always apply. It heavily depends on the country you live in. Edit: I wanted to add they also have zoology students for their workstudies in their early years that work with the rats and other animals to socialise them

[@Emiology]

Unfortunately no reputable breeder will supply their rats to a pet store. They may be marginally better than a mass breeding mill but it’s still not the most ethical option. Any good reputable breeder would always oversee where their rats go and vet the homes themselves, they don’t need to rely on stores to sell them when they have waiting lists and aren’t mass producing rats to meet demand.

[@LittleVidds]

Maybe, but 9 times out of 10 they're just saying that to get you to buy, buy, and buy. So its better to just say NO to pet stores.

[@copymousetseng2645]

This video is super informative and helpful as I am considering getting rats. I am not sensitive to seeing dead animals but know that that could be icky for some people though, so it would be nice if there was some kind of warning for the PETA clips that looked like there were drowned rats.