Don't use cotton or rags because threads can get wrapped around the rat's legs. It is also best not to use ink in the rat's cage. Rodent blocks are recommended. Debbie Ducommun, president of The Rat Fan Club, has also devised a homemade rat diet, which is perfect, but you have to go to a lot of trouble to do it. A rat can get very sick without the proper nutrition.
Rats love human food.
But stay away from things that are too fatty or salty, and junk food is worse for rats than it is for you. Table scraps should only be given to your rat as a treat, not as a regular diet. The best wheel for a rat is called the Wodent Wheel. Once you have chosen your pet, it is time to look for the proper habitat. Both wire cages and aquariums are suitable for rats, but there are several terms that may sway you in either direction.