Introduction
Scientists can sometimes seem to have a mean streak when it comes to naming animals. How else could you explain strange-tailed tyrants, spiny lumpsuckers, and chicken turtles?
The dumbo rat can be added to this list. These animals are nicknamed because they have large ears just like the elephant in “Dumbo”.
Here are some quick facts about the Dumbo Rat
| Species Name: | Rattus norvegicus domestica |
| Family: | Muridae |
| Care Level | Simple |
| Temperature: | 65-75degF |
| Temperament: | Engaging, mild, easygoing, cuddly |
| Color Form: | Agouti, black, lilac, fawn |
| Lifespan: | 2-3 years |
| Size: | 15-22 inches long, 1.5 pounds |
| Diet: | Rat pellets, fruits, vegetables, lean meat, beans |
| Minimum Tank Size: | 24″ x12″ x12″ |
| Setup of a Tank | Minimal |
| Compatibility: | Works well with other rats |
Dumbo Rat Overview
The Dumbo Rat is the most popular domesticated rat species kept as a pet. They are docile, and friendly and have been bred to be companions for so many years.
However, their history is quite dark. Their history is quite dark. They were often used in blood sports in the 18th and 19th centuries. Ironically, their ability to thrive was due to being bred for death. They are still used extensively in medical research and continue to put their lives on the line for humanity today.
Although many people might be hesitant about keeping a rat for their pet, they are far cleaner than wild rats and have a lower risk of contracting diseases or parasites than dogs, cats, or small rodents such as hamsters.
Dumbo rats are much more adorable than other rats. This is due to their natural mutation which causes them to have large ears, wide eyes, and small jaws. They have an innocent appearance due to these traits.
They are not a different species from “scary looking” rats, but they are a cuter variety. They will exhibit many of the same traits and preferences, but they may have different habits or be more susceptible to certain diseases.
What is the cost of Dumbo Rats?
A dumbo rat can be purchased from a pet shop or breeder for between $10 and $20. However, certain colors may be more expensive.
Many small animal rescues and pounds also take in dumbo rats, so it is possible to adopt one free of charge or pay a small adoption fee.
The Typical Behavior and Temperament
Dumbo rats are friendly and sociable. They are calm, curious, and affectionate with people they trust. Although they are not afraid to be handled, it might take some time to get them used to the idea.
They are intelligent and can be taught tricks by many people. These animals are social creatures and need to interact with other rats or people. Experts recommend that at least two dumbos be kept together at all times.
Appearance and Varieties
Many breeders have developed special markings and patterns for dumbo rats to appeal to potential owners. Over the years, the breed has developed some unique characteristics.
Two primary colors are found in dumbo rats: black and agouti. Agouti is a combination of three tones on each hair. This can give them a grayish or brownish color. Aguti dumbos are also available in cinnamon or fawn.
Black-based colors include black, beige, chocolate, and plain black. Their coat color will determine the color of their eyes. The most popular colors are black, pink, and ruby.
There are many markings that Dumbos can wear, including Himalayan which is a mixed shade of white, and completely solid.
Other standard marking types are also available, such as:
- Hooded: A color-coordinated saddle that runs from the head to the spine and ends at the tail
- Berkshire: White belly, colored top
- Blazed: A colored head or body with white fur around the face
- Capped: Only white with colored fur on the heads
- Variegated: Any type of mismatched pattern
- Irish or English Irish Equilateral Triangle of White running down the chest, or between the front legs
There are many types of coats. The main difference lies in the fur’s coarseness, though some types have curly hair and silky coats.
How to Care for Dumbo Rats
Dumbo rats can be very easy to care for and are inexpensive. We’ll show you the essential gear you need to keep Dumbos.
Habitat, Tank Conditions, and Setup
Cage
Dumbo rats don’t require large enclosures because they aren’t very big. The minimum cage size is 24″x12″x12″. While a properly-sized aquarium is essential, they will also love to explore and climb on multiple levels.
You have two options: wire cages or tanks. However, wire cages are far better than tanks.
Bedding
You will need to cover the cage with a substrate. You can use aspen shavings or recycled newspaper, but you also have the option of using cloth, straw, or shredded cardboard.
Pine shavings and cedar should be avoided as they can cause respiratory problems in rats. Avoid cat litter as well. If your rat accidentally injures some, it can clump in the rat’s gut and cause death. The same problem can be found with corn cob bedding, however, it can also become moldy and produce toxic spores.
No matter what substrate you choose, your rat’s room will need to be cleaned daily in order to keep them healthy and to prevent them from droppings.
Temperature
Dumbos are comfortable at room temperature so you can set any thermostat that suits your needs. You should set the thermostat to a comfortable setting and provide enclosures for them to escape the heat or cold.
Lighting
You don’t need heat lamps for your rat’s enclosure as long as the temperature is kept at a comfortable level. To simulate a day/night cycle, however, it is best to allow them to have 12 hours of light and darkness each day.
Other needs
Apart from what is listed above, your rats will require a food bowl and water bottle. It is possible to take your rat out and have fun with him/her, which could reduce the need to buy other entertainment.
Are Dumbo Rats compatible with other pets?
Dumbo rats can be social animals, so keeping more than one dumbo is a good idea. If you are looking to have rat babies, keep males and females apart. They can be friendly regardless of their sexual preferences.
However, you can have them spayed or neutered. This is recommended to avoid any aggression from the other sex.
They are very friendly with other animals, which is a good thing. They should be kept away from your cat. Dogs are unpredictable and can ignore them or want to eat them.
You should keep your dumbo with other rats for the best results. While other pairings may work, you will be inviting trouble.
What to feed your Dumbo Rat
Your rat’s diet should consist mainly of commercial rat pellets. These pellets are specifically designed to provide all the nutrients and vitamins your rat requires to stay healthy. Avoid mixing seeds and grains with other foods, as rats tend to pick the most nutritious bits.
You can also give them fresh fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods, but not too many sugar-rich ones. As they are rich in antioxidants, leafy green vegetables are a great choice. Rats love them.
They can eat cereal and bread occasionally, but only once per week. Because of the high protein content, they will also enjoy small amounts of meat such as chicken and eggs.
Dumbo rats are habit-forming creatures, so avoid tempting them to change their diets. It is best to feed them the same foods every day in order to prevent gastrointestinal problems.
As babies, they should be fed twice or three times per day. Once they are fully grown, however, it is possible to reduce this to one or two times per day. Overfeeding them can lead to obesity and diabetes.
Keeping Your Dumbo Rat Healthy
Maintaining a healthy dumbo rat is easy. All they need to do is to provide them with a nutritious diet and clean their cages. They have very few other needs and they don’t require veterinary care.
This is the flip side of this coin. Your rat will not live long no matter what you do. You’ll only be able to extend their life expectancy by taking good care of them.
It is equally important to take care of their emotional and physical needs. It means providing them with stimulation, attention, and affection as well as other rats with whom to play and socialize.
Breeding
It’s easy to raise baby dumbo rats by simply putting a male and female unaltered in the same cage. Then wait. There is no need to cajole or do anything else. Let nature do its thing.
The dumbo gene is recessive. You will need two dumbos to produce a litter. If you breed a dumbo with another type of rat, half the litter will be dumbos.
There are many established breeders who can help you find a baby rat in your area.
Are Dumbo Rats suitable for you?
The dumbo rat is a great choice if you are looking for an easy-to-care-for pet that will be as affectionate and cute as any dog or cat. These cute little animals are extremely friendly and can be just as attentive to the needs of their owners as any other pet.
They are small and easy to keep clean. However, they have a major downside: their short lives can lead to attachment and death.
If you are able to handle your emotions, however, you will find a pet who will make your day brighten every time they look at you. It is also quite irresistible to watch their tiny whiskers wiggle.
Is it possible to keep a Dumbo rat as a pet?
Dumbo rats are wonderful little pets. They are noted for their nice, docile personalities as well as their lovely features. Dumbos are sometimes regarded as the rat so adorable that even those who are afraid of rats fall in love with them! They’re relatively low-maintenance and may flourish even in a small apartment
Do stupid rats stink?
Rats are, in reality, exceptionally clean animals. They should not stink and should constantly groom themselves. If your rats are stinking or you are concerned about this as a prospective problem, be assured that it is avoidable.
Do rats remember their owners?
Rats form lasting attachments to their owners. If you ask any rat owner, he or she will tell you: Rats know and respond to their owners’ sight and voice. They are quite gregarious and enjoy spending time with human family members on the couch, on people’s shoulders, or in their laps.
Will you get bitten by a rat?
Healthy rats like to be active when buildings are quiet and avoid people. When cornered, however, they will lunge and bite to protect themselves. Some rat species’ saliva contains dangerous infections including leptospirosis and Hantavirus. Rat bite victims may develop a rat-bite fever in rare situations.
What is the proper way to wash a rat?
Introducing Your Pet Rat to Water First Fill a small container halfway with warm water and place it on a safe surface, such as the counter or the bathtub. Take a cup of water in your palm and carefully drip it onto your rat’s hair. Gently rub it in. After that, wipe clean your rat with a towel until it is fully dry.
What is the most amiable pet rat?
Many people feel that Dumbo rats are nicer than other varieties of rats. (The ears of Dumbo rats are on the sides of their heads rather than on top, like in Walt Disney’s “Dumbo the Elephant.”) Burmese people are also known to be quite friendly.
Is it better to acquire one or two pet rats?
Rats are social, clever, and engaging creatures. We recommend keeping at least two suitable rats together. They can also be housed in groups that are compatible. Companionship is a crucial part of their care.
What is the most intelligent rat breed?
Fancy rats are often easy to care for and inexpensive, even when compared to other tiny pets; this is one of their main appeals. They are also highly independent, faithful, and easily trained. They are said to be smarter than other tamed rats.
Do pet rats bite their guardians?
Some pet rats, indeed, do bite. But it’s crucial to understand why they bite. Knowing the reason can assist an owner or potential adopter in determining what to do next.
Can a stupid rat live on his own?
Rats are gregarious animals that require the companionship of other rats. They utilize their sense of smell to identify individuals and learn where they’ve been and what they’ve been up to. Because rats are sociable animals, living alone can cause depression and strange behavior.