Feel the skin to make sure there are no lumps or abrasions and check to see that there are no lice or fleas. Also check that there are no lumps or bumps on his legs or feet. Listen to the rat s breathing - there should no wheezes or sneezes and no discharge around the eyes or nose. The rat should not bite. If it does bite, choose another one.
Males are larger than females.
Males also tend to be less active and placid and usually just like to hang around whilst females are usually very active. Male rats can be nuetered to allow them to be kept with females or to reduce aggressive behaviour toward other males. We recommend purchasing two rats instead of one. Make sure you purchase animals that are the same sex. Rats are social animals.