Rat question
Training
Rats are smart enough to learn simple commands and perform many tricks. You teach a rat the same way you teach a dog, by showing the rat what you want him to do and then giving him a treat. You'll find instructions for teaching some tricks to rats in the care book Rats written by Debbie "The Rat Lady" Ducommun and sold by The Rat Fan Club.
Possible Problems
Being rodents, rats have a tendency to chew. The solution is to "rat-proof" the area where they're allowed to play, removing valuables and electrical wires. Some rats also have a tendency to urine mark, leaving small drops of urine as they walk. Males are more prone to this, although neutering will reduce the behavior. Furnishings can be protected with a throw cover.
Rats can breed as early as 5 weeks of age, and any female rat older than this who has been living with a male will probably be pregnant. A rat can also get pregnant again immediately after giving birth, so when breeding, the father should be removed before the birth.
Common Health Problems
Rats live only two to three years on average, although proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care can maximize their life span. The most common health problems in rats are respiratory and heart disease. Avoid choosing a rat who sneezes or makes noise when breathing. If your rat has these symptoms, consult a rat expert for advice. The Rat Fan Club sells a booklet called Rat Health Care that can help you identify and treat health problems. The Rat Fan Club website features a referral list of veterinarians who treat rats.