Source: Wikimedia Commons
Fancy Rat
BeginnerRattus norvegicus
Highly intelligent and affectionate pet rat. Can learn tricks and responds to its name. Clean, social, and an underrated companion.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
18〜26℃
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
20-25cm (40cm with tail) / 300-500g
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Rat pellets, vegetables, fruits, protein (small amounts of meat/egg)
About
The fancy rat (Rattus norvegicus domestica) is the domesticated form of the brown rat, selectively bred since the 18th century for temperament, coat color, and other traits. Adults measure 20–25 cm in body length with a tail of similar length, and weigh 300–500 g, with males considerably larger than females. Fancy rats are among the most intelligent small mammals kept as pets, capable of learning their names, solving puzzles, and performing tricks. They are highly social and form strong bonds with their owners. Being colonial by nature, they should be housed in same-sex pairs or groups, as solitary rats experience significant psychological distress. Housing should be a multi-level cage of at least 60 cm width, enriched with hammocks, tunnels, and climbing structures. Diet is omnivorous: quality rat pellets supplemented with fresh vegetables, fruits, and occasional protein sources. Common health concerns include mammary tumors (especially in females), respiratory disease, and obesity. Lifespan is 2–4 years.
Basic Info
Origin
Europe (domesticated from the brown rat)
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
20-25cm (40cm with tail) / 300-500g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Rat pellets, vegetables, fruits, protein (small amounts of meat/egg)
Care Guide
Care Specifications
Group
Sources: LafeberVet / pet rat social housing
Morphs (Varieties)
ファンシーラット(Rattus norvegicus)の代表的カラー。AFRMA 公認の Self / AOC より。
RecessiveVisual only with two copies; one copy = het (carrier).
BlackBeigeChampagneMinkRussian BlueChocolate
DominantVisual with a single copy; no distinct super form.
Agouti
Other
CinnamonPearl
Sources: AFRMA Fancy Rat Standards
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout, 1769)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Sources: CITES Appendices
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Fancy Rat Listings
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