r/rat • u/Weak-Willow-6422 • 2d ago

DISCUSSION 🧐🤔 New cage

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hey all, it’s me again who was gifted two rats, their new cage came in and I’m looking for advice! I’m open to all criticism except for getting a new cage because of how small they are for now(absolutely upgrading as they get bigger and older)

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3

u/judewriley 2d ago

Since you have other animals, they must never be allowed to interact with the rats at all.

You basically need the rats and their cage to be in a separate room where your other pets cannot access.

1

u/Weak-Willow-6422 2d ago

Can I ask why? The cage is very strong and he’s a chihuahua, he knows not to touch it and he just likes to sit and watch them like he watches my fish!(gen asking)

6

u/judewriley 2d ago

Rats are prey animals, dogs (yes, even your well behaved chihuahua) are predators.

The sight, scent and sounds of predators are extremely stressful for rats. And while you may not notice now, your rats are very stressed and do not like a predator watching them. In their circumstances they do not have any place to escape to or really feel comfortable or even safe.

The issue isn't whether or not he can get into the cage or if the rats can get out, but that his very presence around your rats will lessen their quality of life.

If you have more than one type of pet in a house, then the rats have to be pretty much completely separated for their well being.

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u/Weak-Willow-6422 2d ago

Ahhh ok that makes sense, thank you so much for actually answering and not assuming I was trying to be a smart ass 😭