Fancy Rat & Mouse Day

A Celebration of Whiskers, Wits, and Wiggling Tails

Fancy Rat & Mouse Day, observed annually on November 12th, is a day to recognize the often-overlooked world of rats and mice as beloved pets rather than mere pests. Forget what you know from cartoons and horror movies; these clever, adorable little animals make wonderful, low-maintenance pets, complete with unique personalities, affectionate natures, and even a dash of elegance.

So, on this fine day, let’s ditch the stereotypes and give some love to the fancy in Fancy Rat & Mouse!

So, What Exactly Is a Fancy Rat or Mouse?

In the pet world, “fancy” simply means selectively bred for domestication, appearance, or temperament, and it’s more common than one might think. Fancy rats and mice are the descendants of wild rodents but have been raised for generations to be gentler, friendlier, and even better-looking than their wild cousins. The British even have the National Fancy Rat Society, which dates back to 1976!

Fancy rats come in various colors, patterns, and coat types, from sleek and shiny to fuzzy and curly. They can be as unique as a designer handbag, with varieties like the Dumbo rat, named for its large, side-set ears, or the Rex rat, known for its curly fur and whiskers.

Fancy mice are also a diverse bunch, with colors ranging from classic white to rich browns and even piebald patterns. Both fancy rats and mice boast intelligence, adaptability, and friendliness, making them surprisingly great pets.

The History of Fancy Rats and Mice

The practice of keeping rats as pets goes back centuries. However, the real roots of fancy rats lie in Victorian England. In the 1800s, “rat catchers” would often keep and breed unusually colored or particularly docile rats. One famed rat catcher, Jack Black, became known for his collection of unique rats. He even supplied Queen Victoria with a fancy rat—making it possibly the most royal rodent in history!

Fancy mice have a similarly storied background. Ancient Egyptians domesticated mice, and in Japan and China, mice were selectively bred centuries ago for their unique coat colors. By the early 20th century, fancy rats and mice had their own clubs, breeding standards, and even their own “fancy” shows, where they could strut their tiny stuff on stage.

Why Are Rats and Mice Such Great Pets?

Rats and mice are not only cute; they’re smart. Fancy rats can learn tricks, come when called, and even navigate mazes. They’re affectionate, social, and quick to bond with their human companions. Plus, they’re famously curious. Just leave a fancy rat alone with a puzzle, and you might come back to find it solved (or nibbled, but hey, that’s still effort).

Fancy rats, in particular, are known for their personalities—they’re social, love snuggling, and often form tight bonds with their owners. Mice, while smaller and a bit more independent, are equally entertaining to watch. Their social hierarchy, habits of gathering treats, and even their occasional squabbles are fun to observe. Both rats and mice are relatively low-maintenance, making them great pets for apartment dwellers or anyone looking for a compact companion.

Common Myths About Rats and Mice

1. Myth: Rats and Mice are Dirty
   Reality: Fancy rats and mice are surprisingly clean! They groom themselves multiple times a day and can be taught to use specific areas for bathroom needs.

2. Myth: They’re Too Fragile for Handling
   Reality: While you should always be gentle, fancy rats and mice enjoy being handled and interacting with humans. They’re surprisingly hardy little creatures and adapt well to gentle human touch.

3. Myth: Rats and Mice are Just Small Pests
   Reality: Fancy rats and mice are worlds apart from their wild counterparts. Selective breeding has made them more docile, friendly, and yes, even fancy!

How to Celebrate Fancy Rat & Mouse Day

1. Spoil Your Rodents: If you already have a fancy rat or mouse, today is the day to give them an extra treat or new toy. Rats especially enjoy puzzle toys, while mice love a good climbing apparatus.

2. Learn Some Tricks Together: Fancy rats, in particular, can learn a variety of tricks, from navigating mazes to jumping through hoops. Take a few minutes to train them—it’s a great bonding exercise and mentally stimulating for them.

3. Consider Adopting One (or Two!): Rats are very social and thrive with at least one buddy, so if you’re considering a pet rat, get ready for double the fun. If you don’t own a fancy rat or mouse, today’s the perfect day to explore the option.

4. Share Some Fun Facts: Raise awareness by sharing pictures or facts about fancy rats and mice. Many people still don’t realize how sweet and affectionate these animals can be.

5. Host a Tiny Tea Party: Yes, this might be taking it to the extreme, but why not set up a tiny tea party with little treats for your fancy pets? With a few friends, it could be the most adorable Fancy Rat & Mouse Day ever celebrated.

Fun Facts About Fancy Rats and Mice

• Rats laugh when tickled! (Though it’s an ultrasonic sound, so you’d need special equipment to hear it.)
• Rats have incredible memories and can remember paths, people, and even faces.
• Fancy rats and mice can actually bond with other pets in the household, though it’s always important to be cautious and introduce them slowly.
• Rats are actually great swimmers, and some enjoy a little supervised splash in a shallow bowl of water. (Mice, on the other hand, prefer dry land.)
• Some rats “wag” their tails when they’re excited, kind of like a dog!

A Quick Guide to Fancy Rat and Mouse Ownership

If you’re considering adding a fancy rat or mouse to your family, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Housing: Rats need a multi-level cage with enough space to move around and play, while mice enjoy plenty of nooks and crannies for exploring.
• Diet: They thrive on a balanced diet of grains, fruits, vegetables, and occasional treats like nuts or a tiny piece of cheese.
• Enrichment: Fancy rats and mice are smart animals that need mental stimulation. Toys, chew items, and interaction with their humans are essential.

Fancy Rat & Mouse Day is the perfect excuse to give these little animals the appreciation they deserve. They might be small, but they bring big joy and plenty of amusement into the lives of those who welcome them. Whether you’re already a proud parent to a fancy rat or mouse or you’re just fascinated by these whiskered wonders, November 12th is a day to celebrate their tiny paws, curious minds, and undeniable charm.

So, the next time someone wrinkles their nose at the thought of a pet rat or mouse, just remind them that fancy isn’t just about fashion—it’s a lifestyle that includes even the smallest among us!

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