Guidebook Content

Introduction...

Are Rats the Right Companion Animal for You?

Should I Adopt Rats? What Do I Need to be a Rat Guardian? Children and Rats

Making the Big Decisions

What Kinds of Rats are There? What Colors do They Come in? What Markings do They Come in? Male or Female? How Old? More Than One Rat?

About the Equipment Needed

Housing Litter and Bedding Temperature Cleanliness is Next to Godliness Food Toxic Foods Water Treats Toys, Tricks, and Games

First Things First

Before Adopting Your Rats Finding a Good Rat Vet Finding a Location For Your Rats' Enclosure Finding A Play Area For Your Rats Rat Proofing Your Play Area

When You're Ready to Adopt Your Rats

Where Can I Adopt My Rats? Is This Rat a Girl or Boy? When Choosing and Adopting Your Rats When Bringing Your Rats Home

In the Beginning

Bonding With Your Rats How to Pick up Your Rats Tips on Handling Your Rats Tips on How to Pet Your Rats

Why Rats Do What They Do

Ratty Language and Behavior Rats Love to Groom You The Pecking Order Biting Prevention

Maintenance Care and Training

Litter Training Your Rats Leash Training Your Rats Bathing Your Rats Trimming Your Rats' Nails

Working With Your Rats

Introducing New Rats to Your Colony Rats and Other Animals Catching a Rat on the Loose Your Rats Outside Traveling With Your Rats

Health Care

Basic Rat Facts Should I Spay/Neuter my Rat? Obesity How to Perform Your Ratty Health Exam General Health Concerns Surgery Giving Medicine Special Care for the Elderly When Your Rat Passes on Euthanasia

Miscellaneous Information

Quality of Living Books are Always, Sometimes, Never Right Never Do's With Rats Conclusion