Rats are probably the most child-friendly pet rodent because they are so large and develop very loving personalities when cared for correctly. They're a bit better to handle as they are not so fragile and can usually withstand children's hands (although kids should always be supervised when handling them).
Cage: A cage is not a permanent home for a rat. Rather it's sort of like a child's bedroom where you can send your pet to sleep, play, eat, and drink when you're not around to supervise them. Most ferret cages are the prime size for a rat. Remember- the bigger the better. We recommend a wire care for a rat for proper air circulation. There shouldn't be wire on the bottom- it should be plastic. And if you can find one with horizontal bars (spaced no more than 3/4 inch apart) then that would be perfect. Horizontal bars allow your rat to climb. Multiple levels are also a great idea for rats because they like to climb and jump. A rat's cage should be no smaller than 18 inches by 24 inches by 18 inches.
Food: Just as with all animals- rat's need food. But unlike other rodents- that mostly eat seeds, rats need a variety of all sorts of things. In fact, they very closely share a human's dietary needs. They need grains and seeds, fruits, vegetables, and meat and fish. A good mix of all of these things will keep your rat healthy for a full lifetime.
Water: Rats need water to stay hydrated. We don't recommend a water bottle, simply because they easily get clogged and cause dehydration. Instead we suggest a heavy weight bowl that won't easily tip over. Water should be changed daily and always be available.
Tunnels: In the wild rats hide away in small shadowy areas. In captivity there is one specific place that almost all rat's prefer. And those places are tunnels. Things like PVC pipe, Pringle containers, and ferret tunnels all make great tunnels for rats. Why are these necessary? They supply your rat with a sense of safety while also letting them explore a completely secluded area.
Hut/ Hideaway Area: Rats are nocturnal creatures, and although they are often active in the day- they still need a dark tent-like area to hide and sleep in during the day. A hut, cardboard box, or even a small tent make great secluded areas for your rat. Rat's also love to build nests, and will typically do so in hideaway areas. This is a 100% natural activity that promotes positive activity and exercise.
Nesting Material: Not all rat's will build nests, but most avidly enjoy shredding pieces of fabric, paper, and cardboard and arranging them into a nice comfy nest. They'll often collect soft things like feathers, bits of fur, and even dust balls to add to their home. Nest building keeps your rat stimulated while also giving them a comfy place to call 'home'. Supplying them with a variety of shreddable materials (computer paper, cardboard, cotton fabric) is a good way to promote such activity.
Climbing Toys: Rats are excellent climber's. We like to call them 4 year old children- because they can make anything into a play gym. A couch, book case, even stairs makes for the ideal jump around place for a rat. A good way to promote climbing activity is to offer your rat climbing areas in their cage. Piles of tree branches, large rocks, and driftwood pieces make magnificent climbing areas.
Chew Toys: See those sharp little teeth? They were made for chewing and rats certainly need to chew. Unlike other rodents- that chew on pieces of wood, rats should also be supplied with things like dog biscuits, dried all natural rawhide, and dried pig ears. These are good ways to keep your rat's teeth from over-growing while also offering a nice snack!
Companionship: Rats are social creatures. They connect with humans more intimately than other smaller rodents. So if you have the time to cuddle your rat- cuddle them. Lots and lots. They love humans and will make very great companions if handled often. If you can, making a family with more than one rat is highly recommended. Male rats do well in groups of two or three if they are raised together from a young age. Female rats do well in groups of three to five, and can be introduced at any time in their lives.