I've been getting a lot of questions on my adoption applications recently, so I'm going to put some of my recommendations here.  If anyone has any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

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Cages

• I really don't care what adopters use, as there is a lot out there on the market for cages.  I just want the cage to be big enough for the rats (using this calculator) and have bar spacing that won't let the rats escape, which is usually around 1/2".  

• Midwest Critter Nations - these are my current favorite.  I have two double critter nations that house the majority of my breeding stock.  I love the fact that you can get to all parts of the cage, as the whole front of the cage opens up.

• Martin's Cages - these cages are the gold standard.  These cages are great and hold up forever.  I recommend 670 or larger and definitely get the powder coating.

 

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Bedding

• Again, there are so many choices out there on the market, from wood, to paper to fleece.  The big thing, DO NOT USE SOFT WOODS!  That means no pine or cedar, no matter how fantastic it smells or how much cheaper it is than aspen.

 

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Food

• My hands down favorite food is Harlan Teklad 2018, but since it is hard to get ahold of that product anymore, I am using Mazuri Rodent Breeder, as it is a quality food that I can buy in very large bags for the rattery.  I recommend a block form of food, since many rats will pick their favorite food out of a trail mix and not get a balanced diet.

• Some good brands of food include Oxbow and Mazuri.

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