Fancy rat

The fancy rat is a domesticated brown rat (Rattus norvegicus), which is the most common type of pet rat. The name fancy rat derives from the idea of animal fancy (promotion of domesticated animals) or the phrase "to fancy" (to like, or appreciate).

Fancy rats have their origins as the targets for blood sport in 18th- and 19th-century Europe. Specially bred as pets since then, fancy rats now come in a wide variety of colors and coat types and are bred and raised by several rat enthusiast groups around the world. Fancy rats are commonly sold as pets in stores and by breeders.