ANIMAL INFORMATION SHEET
Common Name – Norway Rat/ Brown Rat
Scientific Name – Rattus norvegicus
Order – Rodentia Family – Muridae
“Linguini”
Care, feeding and handling guidelines are researched and outlined by the Association of Zoo and Aquariums, United States Fish and Wildlife and the United States Department of Agriculture.
General Information:
Size: up to 28cm in length and weighing around 150-500g (males typically get larger than females)
Lifespan: up to 2 years (wild); 2-3 years (captivity)
Habitat: Grassy, woodland areas; typically found in urban areas
Wild Diet: Omnivore scavengers
Diet: Their diet should include rice/grain based pellet supplemented with eggs, fresh fruit (excluding citrus) and fresh vegetables
Indigenous Habitat: Norway rats are very adaptable and are found on every continent accept Antarctica. They are native to the bushy, forested areas of China but have hitched a ride with humans to spread around the world—anywhere humans can be found, Norway rats are sure to be found. They are predominantly nocturnal animals resting during the day in a safe, secluded area and becoming active at night.
Home Habitat: Norway rats are prone to respiratory infections and need to be housed in enclosures that give the animal proper ventilation. A large wire cage with plastic platforms are preferred; this allows for ample ventilation, surfaces that are easily cleaned, and area for the animal to climb. The enclosure should also provide areas for the animal to hide and sleep in. Examples of this include machine washable hammocks and chew safe huts/hide-aways. These animals urinate frequently so it is important to have plastic platforms instead of wood platforms and that the cage is wiped down and cage “furniture” is washed at least weekly. If using a cage that requires bedding, a paper based bedding is to be used over aspen and pine bedding. Aspen and pine bedding can irritate this animal’s respiratory tract. If possible, Norway rats should be housed in same gender pairs; if that is not possible extra socialization will be necessary for enrichment.
- “Linguini” was rescued from a reptile feeder colony; a lung sound called “fine crackles” were heard and it was discovered he had pneumonia. After an antibiotic treatment he is now fit, fun and healthy. “Linguini” loves to be held, cuddled and hanging out with volunteers at the rescue. He would love to become a part of your family.
Recommended max time for handling: 2-3 hours, longer if animal seems comfortable
Temperature Range: 60o F – 85o F
Transport: Small carrier with bars for ventilation, a hide-a-way, shredded paper or paper based bedding and access to a water bottle.
Restraint: Can become accustomed to being held and handled if shown love and respect! behaviors such as feeding the animal through the bars of the cage can cause undesirable behaviors such as biting fingers through the cage bars.
Handling: Norway rats can be very affectionate, fun pets if handled regularly and shown proper care and affection.
Signs of Stress: Back arched, hair on back sticking up
Vocalization: Can make clicking noises with their teeth, called bruxing, when content or to sooth themselves and can make high pitched squeaking noises when distressed.
Interesting facts: The Norway rat is one of the most widespread and abundant mammalian species, second only to humans. Their sight is limited but they have a strong sense of smell, touch, and taste. They are strong swimmers and can play in shallow water as enrichment as long as there is a very accessible exit.
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