Rat (Domesticated)

Rattus norvegicus domestica

The common domesticated rat is also sometimes referred to at the fancy rat, it is a domesticated form of the brown rat. The fancy rat is one of the most common species of rat kept as a pet, which has been gaining large popularity in the United States. The name fancy rat derives from the idea of animal fancy (the promotion of domesticated animals). Originally these rats were target of blood sport (animal fighting) in the 18th - 19th century. Later, and thankfully they were bred as pets, they now can be found in a wide variety of coat colors and patterns.

You can find the common domesticated rat sold in pet stores and breeders. Fancy rats are generally good self groomers, and are affordable compared to other small pets (this one of their biggest draws). In addition, they are quite independent, loyal, and can be easily trained. They are considered to be particularly intelligent rodents. In addition to being popular pets, they have found use in medical research. Domesticated rats are physiologically very similar to humans. When used in the medical field, they are referred to as laboratory rats.

Domesticated rats differ from their wild counterparts in many ways, but they are not removed enough to justify a distinct subspecies. The most distinct differences are apparent in the coloring. While more random color mutations may occur in the wild, they are typically a dark brown, while fancy rats may be anything from white to cinnamon to blue. Behaviorally, domesticated pet rates are much tamer than wild ones. They are more comfortable around humans and seek out their owners when roaming.