The short life span is why I stopped keeping them as pets. They get sick a lot - respiratory issues, tumors, etc. Vet bills can add up. Finding a good vet comfortable with treating rats can be hard depending on where you are.
Being rodents, they're always gnawing on things to wear down constantly growing teeth. Can be destructive to your stuff if you're not careful when they're out of the cage (wires, remotes, ear buds, clothing, furniture, etc.). Hides, hammocks, and other cage furniture and toys will steadily need replacement too.
They're social animals and don't do well as solo pets. You want at the bare minimum two.
Being rodents, they're always gnawing on things to wear down constantly growing teeth. Can be destructive to your stuff if you're not careful when they're out of the cage (wires, remotes, ear buds, clothing, furniture, etc.). Hides, hammocks, and other cage furniture and toys will steadily need replacement too.
They're social animals and don't do well as solo pets. You want at the bare minimum two.