There seems to always be those few questions that are asked over and over. Instead of answering them different times, I decided to post them.
Is it okay to have only one rat? I always say one is never good. No matter how much time you play with them, they need the interaction with another rat. Having a same sexed play mate for each rat won't cost you anymore then having one. Rats need a friend; they can become sick and depressed with out one.
How many rats can I have without it becoming a problem? That is really your own answer. There is no set number that you should, or should not have. However, keep in mind how much space you have ,how many cages, and how much time you can spend with each one. Even though rats need a friend, they don't want it to be over crowded. And to keep a rat happy they should get about an hour of play time with their owner. Even if its just sitting on the shoulder while you clean, or do homework. If you can't give that much time to each rat, you should only have two or three. They are cute and its fun to get new and different ones, but keep the rats happiness in mind.
Which is better to have, a boy or girl? Once again, this is a no right answer question. Both males and females are sweet, playful and loving pets. However, males get bigger than females do,and are often more tamed and calm as they get older. Females are smaller and often stay a bit more on the playful side. So, if you want to know which one is right for you, play around with each sex until you find the right one.
Also, always feel free to ask any rat questions. I do not post all of them up here,and never, ever give a name.