Again, no Rattie expert here, but I've been told that they have very short lifespans. (Only live for a few years) .. so that itself is a very big heartache.

I've also been told that they generally don't need vet care, or check-ups.. only for emergency.

I don't know much about the diseases and such they can obtain. So, i'm interested in what those who are more knowledgable have to say as well.