My Journey as a Breeder: Reflections on Six Years of Growth and Learning

I have been breeding rats for six years. Upon reflection, I am filled with a sense of pride and gratitude for the incredible experiences and knowledge I have gained throughout my journey so far.

When I first began breeding rats, I was driven by a deep love for these intelligent and affectionate creatures, but I had little understanding of the intricacies of genetics and the responsibilities that come with shaping future generations.

Over the years, I have immersed myself in the world of rat breeding, eagerly absorbing information from experienced breeders, attending shows and building relationships, and delving into the scientific literature on genetics. This pursuit of knowledge has been transformative, not only for my breeding practices but also for my personal growth as a responsible and ethical breeder.

One of the most significant lessons I have learned is the importance of selective breeding. In the early days, (I mean, prior to research into ethical practices and sourcing foundations from a solid line), it was tempting to breed any two rats that caught my eye, but I knew, with common sense the spontaneity of that idea could have dire consequences, so I put my sensible (and patient) head back on, realising that this approach was shortsighted. By researching, talking to other breeders and learning the genetic backgrounds of others’ breeding stock, I understood they were selecting breeding pairs based on desirable traits such as health, temperament, and conformity to breed standards, and so, I took a deep breath, put my big girl pants on and contacted Ann Storey (Rivendell Stud), who was able to provide me with some lovely foundation rats. I am very grateful for those, as they were good breeders, excellent mothers and eased me into the world of breeding rats, problem free. The Coppers that I had from Ann afterwards too, (then known as Russian Lilac Agouti) were some of the best rats I have ever had, with temperaments second to none. 

Another crucial aspect of my growth as a breeder has been the development of a keen eye for identifying and addressing potential health concerns. Through regular health checks, maintaining meticulous records, and staying informed about common rat health issues, I have become adept at recognising early signs of illness and taking proactive steps to ensure the wellbeing of my rats. This not only benefits the individual rats in my care but also helps to strengthen the overall health and vitality of my breeding lines.

Perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey has been the opportunity to work with and learn from other, well-versed, knowledgeable & dedicated breeders. By engaging with the rat fancy, I have gained invaluable insights into best practices, valuable breeding information and essential information into genetics and the genes of the rats I am breeding. This collaborative spirit has not only enriched my own breeding program but has also allowed me to contribute to the collective knowledge and growth of the rat fancy as a whole.

Looking back on the past six years, I am amazed by how far I have come as a breeder. From those early days of wide-eyed enthusiasm to the present, where I feel confident in my abilities to make sound breeding decisions based on a deeper understanding of background information and a commitment to ethical practices, I have grown in ways I never could have imagined. The joy of seeing healthy, well-tempered rats that are the result of careful breeding and nurturing is truly unparalleled.

As I continue on this path, I am excited to embrace new challenges and opportunities for learning. I am committed to staying at the forefront of any genetic developments and to sharing my knowledge with others who share my passion for these remarkable animals. The journey of a rat breeder is one of continuous growth, and I am grateful for every step of the way.

To aspiring rat breeders, I offer this advice: never stop learning, always prioritise the wellbeing of your rats, and embrace the power of collaboration. The world of breeding and being involved in the rat fancy is a fascinating and rewarding one, and with dedication, compassion, and a thirst for knowledge, you too can make a positive impact on the lives of these incredible creatures.

-Sam Swash

About My Rats

I primarily keep my rats as beloved pets, with only a select few participating in my breeding plans. When breeding, I carefully choose healthy, good-natured rats from well-established lines to minimise potential genetic issues. However, I acknowledge the inherent unpredictability when outcrossing for at least the first couple of generations.

My main objective in breeding is to enhance and create Russian Blue varieties, while ensuring the rats are suitable as pets, with a focus on improving their temperament, health, and overall fitness.

I do not breed to meet the demand for kittens, resulting in a waiting period for availability.

From birth, I socialise all kittens through regular handling. I strongly oppose culling healthy animals and ensure that my rats are only placed in homes where they can enjoy a full and high-quality life. I like to maintain contact with the new owners throughout the rats' lives to monitor their progress, gather information about my breeding lines, and provide support and guidance.

If any rats cannot remain in their new home, I operate a ‘no questions asked’ policy and require that they either be returned to me or rehomed with my approval.

For mating, I allow the selected buck and doe to spend a single night together, when the doe is in heat, allowing them to maintain their position within their respective home groups immediately after mating is successful.

My does are mated with the aim for them to give birth between 6 and 10 months of age, with most having only one litter. I only consider a second litter under appropriate circumstances and if the mating is justified. My mothers give birth in a low-level barred cage equipped with ample nesting material. Once the kittens open their eyes, I introduce accessories for climbing and exploration. Around 3½ weeks, when the kittens become skilled climbers, I move the family to a larger cage. At 5½ weeks old, I separate the buck kittens from their mother and sisters to prevent pregnancies.

I gradually separate the mother from her daughters by increasing the time she spends with her usual group, ensuring the doe kittens are fully independent by the time they and their brothers are ready for new homes at around 8 weeks, after completing their kitten moult.

I feed my rats a mix based on the Shunamite diet recipe, which can be homemade or purchased ready-made from RatRations, Ratcessories or HeartRatHammocks.

The diet consists of a base of horse conditioning mix & rabbit food (55-60% by volume), supplemented with proteins (5-10%), processed cereals (20%), dried vegetables, herbs, and seeds (15%). I regularly provide fresh vegetables and occasional fruits. I give my kittens additional high-protein meals to support their growth.

I house my rats within my home, in a dedicated rat-room, in same-sex groups in spacious cages (SRS95) with a substrate of shredded cardboard (Green Mile) mixed with high-quality wood shavings (Pure Flake Extra).

I use recycled paper pellets in litter trays, and bedding consists of shredded soft paper & hay. I add some straw for extra warmth in the winter months. I equip the cages with a variety of furnishings and enrichment items and often change the layout of the accessories in the cage to challenge the rats to keep them stimulated and physically fit.