Common Questions
Your Help Center
Is all pet food the same?
With all of the different brands and selections of food for your furry critters, not all of them can be the best right? Here at Nibbled Daisies Rattery we believe in using only the highest quality food and after much research, trial, and error we have decided that Mazuri rodent breeder blend 6F is the best pellet blend blend for us. It contains just the right amounts of proteins, fats, and fibrous material to keep our mothering rats healthy and in tip top shape. We recommend this brand cut 50/50 with Rachel’s Loving Lil Hedgies Rodent Blend.
Does it really matter if I train my pet?
While not absolutely necessary to keep a pet rat happy, training exercises with your furry friend helps to develop a stronger and more trusting bond. I heavily encourage rat owners to commit to regular training with their friends not only for the enrichment and mental stimulation of the rat but also for the exciting and joyous experience it can be for you as an owner.
Why do you only sell rats in pairs?
Rats are EXTREMELY! Social creatures. They require social interaction on a level unmatched by many animals. Solitary rats, unless handled on an incredibly regular basis, ( A requirement very rarely met by a large majority of owners. ), will suffer from severe depression that is likely to bring on premature death.
Do I have to purchase two rats if I already have a colony?
A very valid question following the why must I purchase two rats is "well if rats are social creatures and require a colony or at least one friend, can I purchase a singlet if I already have an established colony?" In short, the answer is no. Rats being introduced to an already established colony must go through a two week or longer "quarantine period" in which they must only be housed with the rat they are already established with and then introduced slowly over time to who will soon be their new colony. This being said you don't want your new rat to have to wait out a stressful home change and quarantine period alone.
How important is daily enrichment for my rats?
Environmental enrichment is imperative for rats as it provides mental and physical stimulation required to avoid behavioral problems and increase an animal's long-term health and fitness levels, increasing longevity and quality of life. There are many toys available for purchase to fulfill these needs, such as puzzle toys, beaded strings, feathers, rope bridges, wicker balls and so much more.
Can I house my rats in an aquarium tank?
this question proves to be a difficult one to answer. As a general rule of thumb no. Rats produce very high amounts of ammonia in their urine and within a tank the lack of ventilation can this toxic chemical easily become built up to levels that frequently cause respiratory issues in your pet. Not to mention that most species of rats are climbing and burrowing species. It is very hard to provide an environment within a tank that promotes these activities. The exceptions to these stipulations include a home where the rats bedding is changed daily if not twice daily with the ability to create an environment able to provide the necessary space and utensils to satiate these needs. An example of this includes adding a cage topper to top of a tank adding the extra space and abilities needed.
What is the recommended amount of "out of cage time"
We personally recommend interacting with your rattie friends at least two to three hours a day. This is not always achievable but is a good baseline standard to try to achieve.
Can my rat use an exercise wheel?
Though rats can use exercise wheels to help satiate boredom and daily exercise they are not something we would recommend. We have found that general consensus among the rat community shows rats typically show very little interest in them and they are required to be ATLEAST 16" wide. Rats tails are an extension of their spine, therefore, they must have the ability to keep them straight while running to avoid spinal issues.
Is it okay for my pet to have free range of my home?
While allowing your little buddy free roam of the house can be extremely enriching for them, you must also be aware of the dangers involved. They like to chew and are probably significantly better than you at games of hide and seek. Loose electrical cords not only pose a threat to your friend but also pose the risk of damage to expensive electrical equipment.