A little reason to celebrate
American Fancy Rat & Mouse Day
Animal ยท November 12
A day for fancy rats and mice, the domesticated rodents kept as companions, and the people who care for them.
American Fancy Rat & Mouse Day falls on Thursday, November 12, 2026. That is 16 days away.
Fancy rats and fancy mice are domesticated rodents bred as pets. The word fancy comes from the hobby of keeping and breeding animals for particular looks, and these small animals come in a wide range of coat colors and markings.
Pet rats tend to surprise people. They are social, curious and often happy to ride on a shoulder or come when called by name. Many owners say a rat has more personality than they expected from something that fits in two hands. Rats usually do best with at least one companion of their own kind, since they live in groups and groom one another.
Mice are smaller, quicker and a little more reserved. They spend much of their time exploring, nesting and running on wheels, and they are most active in the evening and at night. Watching a mouse build a nest out of shredded paper is quietly absorbing.
People who keep these animals mark the day by giving them extra attention: a new cardboard tunnel, a fresh pile of nesting material, a few minutes of supervised play outside the cage. Others share photos and stories, which helps a rodent with a bad reputation look more like what it is to its owner, a small, clever companion.
Both rats and mice have teeth that keep growing throughout their lives, so they need safe things to chew. An empty cardboard tube makes a fine gift.
Ways to celebrate
- Give a pet rat or mouse a new cardboard box to explore.
- Add fresh nesting material and watch the rebuilding begin.
- Share a photo of your rat or mouse with friends.
- Read about the different coat colors and markings fancy breeds come in.
- Ask a local rescue whether they need donated cardboard or supplies.
Dates
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Thursday, November 12 |
| 2027 | Friday, November 12 |
| 2028 | Sunday, November 12 |
| 2029 | Monday, November 12 |
| 2030 | Tuesday, November 12 |
All national days on November 12
Also on November 12
Categories: Animal days