Are Rats the Right Pets for You?: The first consideration when thinking of rats as pets is lifespan. Rats (even the healthy ones) live an average of two to two and a half years. With a wider range of possiblity being one and a half years to three-plus years.Are you prepared to say goodbye to your pet after such a short amount of time? Those of us who have fallen under the "rat love spell" have accepted that having them with us such a short time is more than made up for by the unconditional "dog-like" love that they shower over us.But not everyone can bare to deal with the passing of a beloved pet after such a short time. On the other hand, there are people out there who the the idea of a short term commitment in this fast paced ever changing wolrd. Ironically, there are still many rats that end up in shelters because some people can't even devote themselves to a two or three year commitment. Just a little food for thought.   The second thing to consider before deciding on a rat as a pet is companionship. All rats, whether male or female, need the companionship of a same-sex cagemate. Rats are highly sociable animals who thrive on the camaraderie of others.Most humans are unable to provide company for their rat twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Let alone snuggle with them in their hammocks, groom them and wrestle with them as another rat could do. Are you up to purchasing and making room for a cage that will adaquately house two (or more) rats? If so then you are well on your way to being a rattie owner...or is it the other way around? There are people out there that consider small pets, such as rats, disposable. In other words, if your rat developes a sneeze, a lump, or just behaves in a way which causes concern, are you willing to fork out the cash to take him to the veterinary clinic for antibiotics, have an abcess drained, or surgery? Having a vet fund is a great way to make sure the money is there should you need to take your rat in to the vet for any reason. Speaking of vets... Rats are considered exotic animals, therefore many veterinarians will not see them, or if they do, aren't knowledgable enough to treat your rat properly. Before bringing your rats home, take the time to find a knowledgable rat friendly vet in your area. It could save you a lot of heartache as well as your rats life.