Solstice Rats

Rat Care

On this page we will talk about how we house, feed and care for our furry charges here at Solstice. We would wish our kittens to go to live under similar circumstances, so feel free to pick up tips or email solsticerats@hotmail.co.uk with any questions.

Housing

We each have a designated rat room in our homes, one is a garage extension and the other a spare bedroom.The majority of our rats live in Aviary type cages, Duettos, Brios and similar. We have tried many different types of cages and have found that these fit ours and the ratties needs the best. All rats are given at least 2 cubic feet space in their cages. The cage bases are lined with cardboard squares, litter trays are filled with paper based cat litter and shredded paper is used in beds, baskets and wherever they decide nests are needed! Sawdust, shavings or any wood or clay based products are never used as these can irritate rats respiritory systems.

Cages all have fabric hammocks for sleeping, shelves to give more floor space and exercise oportunities, baskets and igloos for nest building and tubes for hiding and play. We change the cage layouts regularly to give the maximum stimulation to our rats. All the rats get at least an hour free range time every day, thats play time out of the cage.

Feeding

Our rats are fed on a dry mix called the Shunamite diet which consists of rabbit food, dog kibble, cereals and dry pasta. A sample, a copy of this diet and how to make it up will be supplied with all kitten adoptions and can also be supplied via email on request. We also feed fresh veg, curly kale is very good, and small amounts of fish and cooked chicken as treats. My boys also love a nice spag bol!