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Rats and Other Animals

© Karen Yang

Rats and birds

This is a no-no! I've heard too many horror stories about this one to even think about recommending someone try to introduce a rat to any bird. Rats are omnivores and are not above catching and eating the occasional bird. Tame pet birds don't stand a chance with a rat loose in the room. Rats can stalk and jump (up to 3 feet in the air!) and do all those things one normally associates with cats. Don't even think it. Just don't!

Rats and cats

While I've heard that this can work, especially with fat, lazy cats who have "forgotten" how to hunt, I really wouldn't risk it. Even the laziest of cats likes to play, and they can play very rough. It only takes one bite in the right spot to kill a rat. My cats do occasionally get to visit with our rats and have been snapped at through the cage bars enough to have a healthy respect for them, but I never leave them alone together. I stay ready to intervene at all times. My rats like chewing on cat toenails, and if one of our cats got hurt or scared and attacked a rattie, I'd never forgive myself.

Rats and dogs

This interaction can go either way. Your chances are better if introducing your rat to a guarding or herding breed and worse if you have a terrier or sight hound. Go very slowly and watch body language carefully. If you have an energetic puppy or a very large dog, be careful that your dog doesn't inadvertently hurt your rat - some dogs just aren't aware of their size and strength. Some dogs get very chummy with rats, licking them, following them around and watching out for them. Just be careful your rat doesn't get too annoyed and try to bite your dog!

Rats and rabbits

Rats and rabbits seem to be a pretty good match - sometimes. They seem to speak the same language, but still you've got to be careful. Aggressive rabbits can hurt a rat very easily, and aggressive rats can seriously annoy a rabbit. If your rabbit can interact with your rats in an area where it can get away easily if it feels threatened, they should get on fine together. Our male rats love playing chase and cuddling with our rabbit (one of them is in love with her!), but our female rats seem to think she's a big chew-toy. Again, go easy on the introduction and watch body language carefully in the beginning!