How much does a pet rat cost?
How much does a pet rat cost?
$5 – $70 per rat
$10 – $15 per rat (pet store)
$20 – $140 per pair
Average pet rat cost
A pet rat costs $5 to $70 depending on where you buy it, the breed, and the rat's age and coloring. Most pet owners pay $10 to $15 for a standard fancy rat from a pet store, while rare breeds from specialty breeders can cost significantly more. Adopting from a shelter or rescue is often free or under $10.
| Source | Average cost per rat |
|---|---|
| Pet store (PetSmart, Petco) | $10 – $15 |
| Private breeder (standard breeds) | $15 – $40 |
| Private breeder (rare breeds) | $40 – $70 |
| Rescue or shelter adoption | $0 – $10 |
| Rehoming (Craigslist, Facebook groups) | $0 – $10 |
Keep in mind that rats are social animals and should always be kept in same-sex pairs or small groups. This means you should budget for at least two rats, bringing your initial purchase cost to roughly $20 to $140 depending on the source and breed.
Where to buy a pet rat
The place you purchase your rat from has the biggest impact on both price and health. Pet stores are the most accessible option, but breeders and rescues each offer distinct advantages worth considering.
| Source | Price range | Key advantage |
|---|---|---|
| National pet stores | $10 – $15 | Convenient, widely available |
| Reputable breeders | $15 – $70 | Healthier, well-socialized rats |
| Shelters and rescues | $0 – $10 | Low cost, supports animal welfare |
| Online rehoming | $0 – $10 | Often includes cage and supplies |
Pet stores
PetSmart sells fancy rats for $11.99 each, available in-store only. Petco offers similar pricing. Pet store rats are convenient to purchase, and both major chains participate in health guarantee programs. PetSmart's Vet Assured program, for example, screens animals for common illnesses before sale and offers a 14-day health guarantee.
The downside of pet store rats is that they may not be as well-socialized as breeder rats. They also tend to come from large-scale breeding operations, which can mean a higher risk of genetic health problems.
Private breeders
Reputable rat breeders charge $15 to $70 per rat depending on the breed, coat type, and lineage. Breeder rats are typically healthier because ethical breeders screen for respiratory issues and mammary tumors, two of the most common rat health problems. They also handle their rats from a young age, resulting in friendlier, better-socialized pets.
To find a quality breeder, look for recommendations on rat-specific forums, local rat clubs, or organizations like the American Fancy Rat and Mouse Association (AFRMA).
Shelters and rescues
Adopting a rat from a shelter or small animal rescue is the most affordable option, typically costing $0 to $10. Many rats end up in rescues because their previous owners underestimated the commitment required. These rats are often already socialized and may come with basic supplies.
Websites like Adoptapet.com and Petfinder list adoptable rats by location. Rescue organizations sometimes require an application and home check before approving an adoption.
Cost by breed and type
Pet rats come in over 40 recognized colors and markings, along with several distinct breed types. Standard fancy rats are the most affordable, while rarer varieties command higher prices from specialty breeders.
| Rat breed/type | Typical cost | Notable features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard fancy rat | $10 – $20 | Most common; smooth coat, standard ears |
| Dumbo rat | $15 – $40 | Large, round ears set lower on the head |
| Rex rat | $15 – $35 | Curly or wavy coat and whiskers |
| Hairless rat | $25 – $50 | No fur; requires extra warmth and skin care |
| Satin rat | $15 – $30 | Extra shiny, sleek coat |
| Tailless (Manx) rat | $30 – $70 | Born without a tail; rare breed |
| Blue, Siamese, or odd-eye rats | $25 – $50 | Unique colorings; higher breeder demand |
Dumbo rats are one of the most popular varieties due to their distinctive ear shape and typically docile temperament. Standard fancy rats, which you'll find at most pet stores, are the easiest to source and the least expensive.
Rats are highly social animals that can become depressed, anxious, and even physically ill when housed alone. Veterinarians and experienced rat owners strongly recommend keeping rats in same-sex pairs or small groups. Budget for at least two rats from the start.
Initial supply and setup costs
The rat itself is often the cheapest part of pet ownership. Setting up a proper habitat with bedding, food, and enrichment items typically costs $150 to $350 for the initial setup.
| Supply item | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Cage (multi-level, minimum 2' x 2' x 1') | $60 – $150 |
| Bedding (Carefresh or fleece liners) | $10 – $25 |
| Food bowl and water bottle | $5 – $15 |
| Pellet food (initial bag) | $8 – $15 |
| Hideaways and nesting boxes | $10 – $25 |
| Exercise wheel (solid surface) | $10 – $25 |
| Hammocks and climbing toys | $10 – $30 |
| Chew toys | $5 – $15 |
| Initial vet visit | $35 – $75 |
| Total initial setup | $153 – $375 |
Choosing a cage
The cage is the single biggest upfront expense. The minimum enclosure size for a single adult rat is 2 feet x 2 feet x 1 foot, but larger is always better, especially for pairs or groups. A cage measuring at least 16" x 28" x 30" with multiple levels is recommended for two rats.
Wire cages with solid floors are ideal. Avoid aquariums, which trap odors and ammonia that can cause respiratory problems. The floor should be solid metal or plastic, never wire mesh, which can injure a rat's feet.
Bedding options
Appropriate bedding materials include Carefresh paper bedding, fleece fabric liners, recycled newspaper, and shredded paper. Keep bedding 0.5 to 1 inch deep and spot-clean daily. A full bedding change is needed once or twice per week.
Never use pine or cedar shavings. These wood types contain aromatic oils that are toxic to rats and can cause serious respiratory damage.
Monthly food costs
Feeding two pet rats costs roughly $15 to $30 per month. The bulk of their diet should be high-quality pellets supplemented with fresh vegetables, occasional fruit, and small amounts of lean protein.
| Food type | Monthly cost (for two rats) |
|---|---|
| Pellet food (Oxbow or Mazuri) | $8 – $15 |
| Fresh vegetables | $5 – $10 |
| Treats and supplements | $2 – $5 |
| Total monthly food cost | $15 – $30 |
Veterinarian-recommended pellet brands include Oxbow Essentials and Mazuri Mouse & Rat Food. Avoid seed-based diets, which are high in fat and lack essential nutrients like calcium carbonate, vitamin B12, and manganese. A general feeding guideline is 5 to 10 grams of pellets per 100 grams of body weight.
Safe fresh foods for rats include apples, pears, bananas, broccoli, bok choy, celery, berries, peas, and endive. Offer vegetables every other day and fruit once a week as a treat.
Veterinary costs
Routine veterinary care for a pet rat costs $35 to $75 per vet visit, with most vets recommending exams every 6 to 12 months. Emergency or specialty care can cost significantly more, making vet expenses the most unpredictable part of rat ownership.
| Veterinary service | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Routine wellness exam | $35 – $75 |
| Respiratory infection treatment | $50 – $150 |
| Tumor removal surgery | $150 – $500 |
| Spay or neuter | $100 – $300 |
| Mite or parasite treatment | $30 – $75 |
| Emergency visit | $100 – $300+ |
You'll need an exotic animal veterinarian, as not all vets treat rats. Call ahead to confirm your local vet sees small mammals. Common health issues in pet rats include respiratory infections, mammary tumors, dental problems (overgrown teeth), skin parasites, and obesity.
Contact your veterinarian if you notice cloudy or swollen eyes, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge, overgrown teeth, drooling, bare patches in the fur, sores or lumps, weight loss, decreased appetite, diarrhea, or labored breathing.
Total ongoing monthly and annual costs
After the initial setup, maintaining two pet rats costs approximately $30 to $60 per month, or $360 to $720 per year. This includes food, bedding, toys, and routine veterinary care spread across the year.
| Ongoing expense | Monthly cost | Annual cost |
|---|---|---|
| Food (pellets, vegetables, treats) | $15 – $30 | $180 – $360 |
| Bedding | $8 – $15 | $96 – $180 |
| Toy and enrichment replacement | $3 – $10 | $36 – $120 |
| Routine vet care (averaged monthly) | $5 – $12 | $60 – $150 |
| Total ongoing costs | $31 – $67 | $372 – $810 |
Pet rats live approximately 2 years on average, with some reaching 3 years with excellent care. Over a rat's full lifespan, the total cost of ownership for a pair of rats (including the initial purchase and setup) is roughly $700 to $1,800.
Lifetime cost breakdown
Understanding the full financial commitment helps you plan ahead before bringing pet rats home. The following table outlines the estimated total cost of owning two rats over their average two-year lifespan.
| Cost category | Estimated lifetime total (2 rats, 2 years) |
|---|---|
| Purchase price | $10 – $140 |
| Initial setup (cage, supplies) | $150 – $350 |
| Food (2 years) | $360 – $720 |
| Bedding (2 years) | $192 – $360 |
| Toys and enrichment (2 years) | $72 – $240 |
| Veterinary care (2 years) | $120 – $300 |
| Total estimated lifetime cost | $904 – $2,110 |
Ways to save on pet rat costs
Pet rat ownership doesn't have to break the bank. Several strategies can help you reduce both upfront and ongoing expenses without compromising your rats' quality of life.
| Money-saving tip | Potential savings |
|---|---|
| Adopt from a rescue instead of buying from a breeder | $20 – $60 per rat |
| Buy a used cage from online marketplaces | $30 – $80 |
| Use fleece liners instead of disposable bedding | $50 – $100 per year |
| Make DIY toys from cardboard and paper | $20 – $60 per year |
| Buy pellet food in bulk | $20 – $40 per year |
- Adopt or rehome: Check local shelters, Facebook rat groups, and Craigslist for rats that need new homes. You'll often get the rat plus a cage and supplies included.
- DIY enrichment: Rats love cardboard boxes, paper towel rolls, toilet paper tubes, and shredded paper. These cost nothing and provide excellent mental stimulation.
- Fleece liners: Reusable fleece cage liners cost more upfront but save money over time compared to disposable paper bedding. Simply wash and reuse.
- Share fresh vegetables: When you're cooking, set aside small portions of rat-safe vegetables like broccoli stems, peas, or celery instead of buying them separately.
- Preventive care: Keeping the cage clean, feeding a proper diet, and monitoring weight weekly can prevent costly veterinary emergencies down the road.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pet rat cost at PetSmart?
PetSmart sells fancy rats for $11.99 each. They are available in-store only (not for online purchase) in both male and female options. PetSmart rats come with a 14-day health guarantee through the Vet Assured program.
Can you buy just one rat?
You can buy a single rat, but it's strongly discouraged. Rats are highly social animals that thrive in the company of their own species. A lone rat is more likely to develop depression, anxiety, and stress-related health problems. Always plan to keep at least two same-sex rats together.
Are pet rats expensive to maintain?
Pet rats are relatively affordable compared to dogs and cats. Monthly maintenance for two rats runs about $30 to $60, covering food, bedding, and supplies. The biggest potential expense is unexpected veterinary care, which can cost $100 to $500 for surgeries or emergency treatment.
How long do pet rats live?
Pet rats live approximately 2 years on average. Some well-cared-for rats can reach 2.5 to 3 years. Their relatively short lifespan is an important consideration before purchasing, as it means you may face end-of-life care decisions sooner than with other pets.
Is it cheaper to buy a rat from a breeder or a pet store?
Pet store rats are generally cheaper at $10 to $15, while breeder rats cost $15 to $70. However, breeder rats are often healthier and better socialized, which can mean lower veterinary bills over the rat's lifetime. The cheapest option overall is adopting from a rescue for $0 to $10.
What is the most expensive type of pet rat?
Tailless (Manx) rats and rare color varieties like Siamese or odd-eye rats tend to be the most expensive, costing $30 to $70 from specialty breeders. Hairless rats also command higher prices due to the specialized breeding required.