All my rats are kept in large community cages. They currently live in Martin's cages: 3 R-695's and 3 R-680's. Several spare cages are available for quarantine, nursery, sick leave, or simply for rats who wish to live in smaller groups. By raising my animals this way they are happy, well socialized, and never lonely.
In addition to their normal cages, my rats also have a play area. This play area is a three foot square table with a plastic wading pool set up with toys, hiding boxes, treats, and bedding with shredded paper. Co-existing groups of rats are brought out to play for hours at a time, until they tire and are returned to their cages. During this time I can play and interact with the rats in different ways, and also observe their behavior and make sure all are healthy.
Recently I switched from using bedding to towels. Each cage also has several litter boxes. Litter boxes and towles are changed out every few days, or as needed. Cages are emptied, scrubbed, and disinfected weekly.
Currently my rats are fed a diet based on Harlan Teklad lab blocks, which are available at all times. In the morning each cage receives a modified version of the "Suebee Diet" mix. They are free to munch on this mix throughout the day, but only receive a set amount in the morning. The specific amount given to each cage varies, depending on the number of rats and their ages and activity levels, since this mix can be fattening if fed in excess. In the evening they are fed a dinner of fresh produce, tofu, and yogurt. The fruits and vegetables are varied from day to day to ensure maximum nutritional benefit.
My rats have several toys, including jingle balls and hammocks. Although rats do not always take advantage of these toys, I want to ensure they are healthy and happy, including mental health and happiness. I regularly add new toys to keep my rats entertained and ensure they have plenty of stimulation. My animals are handled daily to ensure they are friendly and people-oriented. My rats are also exposed to normal house-hold noises such as vacuum cleaners, televisions, radios, and so on, further ensuring their easy transition into new homes.
I currently have three cats and a dog, each of which has been socialized and trained to accept the rats as part of the family pack, but are never allowed one-on-one contact. My rats are exposed to the scents of these animals from birth. This exposure helps my rats adjust to their new homes, where they may come across these other animals.
