Ventilation 


It is important to have good ventilation in the room where you decide to keep you rats. Their droppings and urine give off ammonia. Even with the most absorbent litter there is still a build up which can lead to breathing difficulties. Rats are already prone to respiratory problems so it is important that you get a good air purifier which will draw in the smell of ammonia. Expect to pay about £30 - £40 for a good one. Of course good hygiene is also important and their litter and bedding areas must be changed on a daily basis


Temperature Control


In the summer months our rats can overheat in the same way that we can. They regulate temperature by their tail and feet. It is important to keep the cage out of direct sunlight, and always make sure they have fresh, cold water in their bottle.


You can give rats an extra bowl of water in which they can paddle their feet. They will sometimes just sit in it, but it will prevent them getting heat exhaustion. We put ice-cubes in the water so that the water will remain cool. Prepare for a messy cage though! We also give them frozen peas - they suck on them like an ice-lolly. It also helps if you have good ventilation and a fan near the cage helps to cool their body temperature down. Make sure it isn't too draughty and your rats have somewhere to hide away.

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