Both mice and rats are very cute pets.They have different needs.If you're looking for a more active and clean pet, choose a rat.If you are on a budget and want a pet that requires little to no handling, a mouse is the best option.
Step 1: You should choose the right pet for your schedule.
Rats and mice are nocturnal animals and are likely to be sleeping during the day.They like to play and make noise at night so it's important to keep this in mind when considering a pet.
Step 2: If you want a low maintenance pet, you need to adopt a mouse.
If you want to exercise your mouse, you can leave it in its cage.Rats need more attention and will often need to be let out of their cage to play.Get a mouse if you don't want this commitment.
Step 3: You can pick the cage size for your pet.
It's important to consider how a rat or mouse cage might fit in your home.Rats have larger cages than mice.Both mice and rats should have cages where they can be seen from the front, so as to minimize stress.Rats and mice need to be housed with other rodents.Pick your cage size and adopt at least two pets when choosing between rodents.Male mice should not be housed with other mice because of their aggressive nature.There is a minimum cage size for 2 adult rats.There is a minimum cage size for 2 mice.
Step 4: If you want a cleaner pet, choose a rat.
You will have to clean up after pets.Rats tend to be cleaner than mice in terms of smell and droppings.Rats and mice can be toilet trained.Female mice are less smelly than their male counterparts.Rats and mice defecate in a corner of their cage.You will need to clean this daily.Rat cages need to be washed once a week.Every 3-4 weeks, the mice cages need to be washed.Don't disturb their cage unless absolutely necessary, as this can stress them out.
Step 5: If you can't afford a mouse, pick a different one.
Rats and mice are good pets for people on a budget.Rats are more expensive as they require larger cages and more food.
Step 6: If you want more of a commitment, buy a mouse.
Rats live a bit longer than mice.If you'd like less of a responsibility in regards to how long your pet will live for, mice could be a good option for you.Rats and mice both live for 3-4 years.Rats and mice need to be cared for for the duration of their lives.
Step 7: If you want a human-loving pet, choose a rat.
If you prefer a curious and intelligent animal, rats are a great choice.They love to be held and can learn basic tricks.Rats should be able to play outside of their cage.If the space is filled with toys, it can be quite entertaining for you and your pet.
Step 8: If you like a more independent pet, choose a mouse.
The mice are more independent than the rats.If you prefer watching your animals play with them, they are a good option.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.
Step 9: If you have kids, consider getting a pet rat.
Pet mice are small and fragile.They are difficult to own if you have children, as they don't respond as well to human touch, making them more likely to bite.A pet rat may be more stimulating for children.
Step 10: If you have other family pets, you should consider choosing a rat.
Rats and mice can make good friends with other family pets, and these relationships can be enjoyable to watch.Mice are a bit too fragile for this and are usually seen as a snack.Rats are good with dogs and cats.Rats should always be supervised when interacting with other family pets.