Fancy rat

Rare card · No. 59034

The fancy rat (Rattus norvegicus domestica) is the domesticated form of Rattus norvegicus, the brown rat, and the most common species of rat kept as a pet. The name fancy rat derives from the use of the adjective fancy for a hobby, also seen in "animal fancy", a hobby involving the appreciation, promotion, or breeding of pet or domestic animals. The offspring of wild-caught brown rats, having become docile after having been bred for many generations, fall under the fancy type. Fancy rats were originally targets for blood sport in 18th- and 19th-century Europe. Later bred as pets, they now come in a wide variety of coat colors and patterns, and are bred and raised by several rat enthusiast groups around the world. They are sold by breeders and in pet stores, and they are also often available at animal shelters. Fancy rats are quite independent, affectionate, loyal and easily trained. They are often considered more intelligent than other domesticated rodents. Healthy fancy rats typically...

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