| Rats are amazing animals and make excellent pets. They are friendly and extremely intelligent. Like dogs, rats can be taught tricks, with proper training. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about rats. They are often described as dirty, vicious beasts that spread disease. Quite the opposite, rats are very clean. Many rats will actually choose one corner in their cage to use as a toilet, or can even be litter trained. Since most pet rats are kept indoors, it is extremely unlikely one will ever come into contact with rabies or other diseases. There is a much greater chance for a pet dog or cat to carry and spread disease than for a rat. Rats are easy to care for too, similar to a cat or dog. A well bred, well cared for rat can also be quite hardy. |
| Welcome to California Critters(CLCR), we are a private breeder in our Chatsworth, Ca home located in the Northern San Fernando Valley. We selectively breed for Health, Longevity, Temperament and a Great Personality. Currently breeding Standard and Dumbo Eared, in many varieties such as; Variegated, Hooded, Berkshire, Variegated Berkshire, Dalmatian, Blazed, Capped, Possum Face, Down Under, Siamese, & Himalayan and many more. We also breed Dwarf Ratties! Cali Critters is Registered with the AFRMA (American Fancy Rat and Mouse Association) under the prefix of CLCR. For more info check our About Us Page. Interested in a rattie? Check out our Current Litters Page! Interested in a Chinchilla? Check out our Available Chins Page |
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| Copyright ©2010 CaliCritters (CLCR) Most text and photos may not be used without written permission All Rights Reserved Please report any broken links, etc. Contact Webmaster at: Kat@CaliCritters.com or Sarah@CaliCritters.com |
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| Last Updated: May 23, 2012 |
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| Fancy rats, more commonly known as pet rats, are not wild rats. Pet rats are descended from wild rats, as dogs are descended from wolves, but through selective breeding our pets have become fully domesticated. Pet rats come in a variety of colors, markings, and even body and fur types. Wild rats are not friendly to people and have a stronger "flight or fight" instinct. Domestic rats are very friendly, and even most unfriendly domestic rats can be tamed. Domestic rats rarely bite if properly socialized. |
| Rats need careful handling just like any other animal. A rat should never be picked up by its tail. This can damage not only the spine, but the tail itself. The tail, when grasped, can be degloved, in other words the skin comes off. The skin cannot be replaced, so the tail must then be amputated to prevent infection. The tail is very important to rats. It helps aid them in balancing, it also helps them regulate their temperature. A rat should instead be picked up by its body, similar to the way a cat would be picked up. One hand should be used to go under the rat and pick it up, the other hand used to support its weight. Once off the ground, the rat can either stand on the hand, or be placed on a shoulder or in a lap. |
| (American Fancy Rat and Mouse Association) under the prefix of CLCR. |
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| WE DON'T TAKE IN ANY LITTERS OF WILD RATS OR ANY LITTERS OF RATS OF ANY KIND DUE TO THE SAFETY OF OUR OWN RATS! SORRY & THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING! |
| Looking for a Rattie or Chinchilla? We are now selling our Rattie food and Lab Blocks! If you are interested please contact us! :) ** Please check your SPAM folder if you do not get a response from us within a few hours! ** |
| They do Care! But we rat lovers know that! Check out the article! |
