Both rats and mice are social creatures and need to be housed with others of their kind. When choosing either rodent, you’ll have to adopt at least two pets and pick your cage size accordingly. However, male mice should not be housed with other mice due to their aggressive nature. [3] X Research source The minimum cage size for 2 adult rats is 1 metre (3. 3 ft) x 60 centimetres (24 in) x 60 centimetres (24 in). The minimum cage size for 2 mice is 60 centimetres (24 in) x 30 centimetres (12 in) x 25 centimetres (9. 8 in).
While pet mice tend to be a bit smellier than pet rats, female mice are less smelly than their musky male counterparts. [5] X Research source Both rats and mice tend to urinate and defecate in a corner of their cage. You will need to clean this daily and replace the soiled litter. Rat cages need to be washed and/or disinfected once a week. [6] X Research source Mice cages need to be washed and disinfected every 3-4 weeks. Be careful not to disturb their cage unless absolutely necessary, as this can stress them out.
Rats live for 3-4 years, as compared to mice who live for 2-3 years. Both rats and mice are a commitment and need to be engaged with and attended to for the duration of their lives.
Rats should have an area outside of their cage where they can play regularly. This is especially stimulating for your pet if the space is filled with various toys - and can be quite entertaining for you!
Although mice don’t enjoy the human touch as much as rats, they still need to be handled daily so as to keep them tame and check on their health. If you like watching your mouse play you can include ladders, ropes and wheels in their cage, or even buy a multi-story cage to allow for sufficient exercise. This is fun for you and also good for your mouse.
Rats are known to pair particularly well with dogs and cats. [9] X Research source Rats should always be supervised when socialising with other family pets - just to be safe.
