Showing Rats is not unlike showing other animals. The Rat Society of America (RSA) is like the American Kennel Club (AKC) and The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) as they set standards, rule over the affiliate clubs and sanction shows. There are 3 affiliate clubs to the RSA in the vicinity of Ohio, NIRO (Northern Illinois Rat Organization, RFGL (Rat Fanciers of the Great Lakes) and M. Each affiliate club has a code of ethics they require their members sign and adhere to.

Each rat shown in the RSA must be registered with the NARR (North American Rat Registry.) This is a registry focusing on record keeping and breeder responsibility.

To keep each rat entered or present at the show healthy, there are strict guidelines and quarantines prior and after each show required by the RSA. It is CRUCIAL that each person showing follow these rules perfectly to protect other rats not only at the shows but back at home. 1 sick rat could affect every rat at the show and lack of strict quarantine could take the disease back to everyone's rattery at home. Normally, "Elisa Panels" are required prior to entering the show grounds. An "Elisa Panel" is a blood test that will show several diseases prone to rats such as SDA, Sendai and KRV.

Each Rat at the show is judged on its own Health, Temperament and Type. Show boxes are normally outlined prior to the show and sometimes are available for rent. Each box looks alike as not to prejudice the judge to the knowledge of what rattery entered what rat. There are several classes offered during the show.