Are rats good pets for 12 year olds?

Jennifer Graham with Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine said small pets are great options for young children because they can teach responsibility. Hamsters, guinea pigs and gerbils tend to be more traditional options, but Graham said rats can make ideal pets because they are so easy to care for.

Is it weird to have a rat as a pet?

The domesticated pet rat can be one of the most trustworthy pets that you can own, as long as it has a wonderful lineage and was raised properly. They are also incredibly intelligent and quirky, making them very entertaining for adults and children alike.

How old should you be to have a pet rat?

The best place to buy a rat is from a reputable breeder and a baby should be at least six weeks old. Make sure they have been properly sexed and separated from the opposite sex by the time the males are five weeks old.

Should I get my child a rat?

Though these rodents are fairly docile, they aren’t typically recommended for small children without adult supervision. If you’re taking home a pet rat for your child, be sure to keep in mind that you will end up being its primary caretaker. “Small rodents should not be pets for very small children,” Hoppes said.

Are rats intelligent?

Rats and mice are highly intelligent rodents. They are natural students who excel at learning and understanding concepts. And, while rats are much smaller than elephants, they have excellent memories. Although their eyesight is poor, once rats learn a navigation route, they never forget it.

What is the best pet to get for a teenager?

The 9 best pets for kids — and how to choose one

• Cat.
• Rabbit.
• Guinea pig.
• Turtle.
• Bird.
• Lizard.
• Hamster. Hamsters are nocturnal so only night owls will really get to see this critter in action.
• Fish. Often regarded as the perfect first pet for kids, fish are fascinating family members to watch, no matter your age.

Are rats good pets for 13 year olds?

Are rats good pets for kids? Yes. Rats have many of the disadvantages of other pet rodents: they’re nocturnal, their cages need a lot of maintenance, they don’t live a long time (1-3 years). But unlike other rodents, they’re fantastically friendly and smart if they grow up being lovingly handled by human companions.