Performative Ethics and Preaching

Before becoming a rat breeder, I was a rat owner. I struggled to find good-quality rats locally, and it felt like all breeder pages (social media, websites, etc.) were geared more toward other breeders than prospective rat owners. Between pages of rules, impassioned posts about ethics, and highly technical discussions on genetics, I became overwhelmed. All I just wanted was to provide a loving, safe home for rats.

Now, as a breeder myself, I've spent a considerable amount of time studying what my consumers want, what works best, and what needs to be axed. I appreciate that people need practical, relevant information about the rats that they will directly care for.

While ethical breeding and responsible care are essential, I've noticed that many communications in the rat breeding space can feel performative. They signal authority or moral credibility.

This performative approach can unintentionally alienate prospective buyers. Most pet parents don’t need lectures or strict lists of rules. What they want are clear, honest answers, judgment-free guidance on care, and reassurance that they’re doing the right thing for their rats.

Unfortunately, when communications are written primarily for peer approval, the message that matters most can get lost.

Performative ethics can also create unnecessary tension within the community. Instead of fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, it promotes judgment, comparison, and gatekeeping. As a breeder who prioritizes transparency, trust, and practical care, this dynamic can feel discouraging and isolating.