File :-(, x, )
Anonymous
Hi, /an/, I need some help in convincing my parents to let me get a rat or two.

So, my first and biggest prevention is that our family has two cats. Now, in the past I have had two hamsters, and they both died of old age and Wet Tail. But that was when I hadn't realized how much I liked rats. Anyways, when I put them in the ball and let them run around, my cats used to run away from them, but I'm guessing they were just afraid of the ball and not my hamsters.

My second priority is that my family has decided that we might be getting a dog soon. We have not decided on a breed yet, but the main reason my dad prevents me from getting one is that he always says 'we have to get a dog first.' I keep telling him that I have taken care of my pets by myself in the past, and that my rats will depend on me and me only.

So, /an/, any more ideas on helping me? And I'm not a troll. (even though you'll probably think I am after posting that)

Pic related, of rats from a shop that is in my town.
>> Anonymous
I don't own rats or have a family to respond to in pet matters. What I would suggest, though, is: google pet rats. There's tons of info on the matter, pros and cons. Opinions from people who have pet rats. Put together a solid and sound argument based on your research and present it to your parents. If they're rational and sensible people they are likely to accept your reasons.
Show them that you're willing to care and take responsibility for your pets, and you will clean after them and feed them properly.
>> Anonymous
Tell your parents that you'll keep them away from the dog? It's not hard, it's not like they'll be running around willy nilly. They'll live in a cage, and when you play with them, you'll play with them in your bedroom or whatever.

You should always get two, not one. They are very social and unless you plan on spending every moment with it, it needs company.
>> Anonymous
Rats are small, they don't stink (provided you clean the cage at least once a week), they don't bite, they are smarter than cats, and they are easy to care for. If the cage is out of the cats' reach and they aren't allowed into your room, they won't even notice the rats. The dog has nothing to do with the rats whatsoever so I don't understand what the fuck your dad is talking about.
>> Anonymous
first: I suggest a female greyhound (make sure you get one that likes cats) they are loveable and will stay out of the way when need be - they like to be lazy, but loved.

Second: I have sevral cats and two rats - as long as you don't make the cage easily accessible for the cat (meaning leaving the cage opened) then they coexist quite well. My rat used to have what we called the "fightin' corner", where he an one of our cats used to swat at each other - they never hurt each other, but it was funny as hell to watch - he would ignore the cats and they him unless he was in this corner.

Also: rats are not as dirty as people believe, but they can get bad sometimes. Just be sure to clean the cage (and the rat as well) at least weekly (the rat monthly, depending on how messy it is) and everything will be fine.
>> Anonymous
I love rats, and yes, rats can live in a household with other pets fine. The other animals can even learn to tolerate them outside of the cage. However, let your dad get the dog first. Help take care of it, and allow them to see that you understand responsibility. Also, it would be more respectful to let your father get the pet he wants before you do, and may earn you more respect in turn.