Rat Mouse — enrichment (owner-practical care, Merck Veterinary Manual pet-owner)
Source: first-hand Merck Veterinary Manual pet-owner text, saved to source_file; every claim below is a C1 byte-substring of it.
Claims
It should have enough space to allow for some exercise, as well as areas for feeding and nesting.Rats may chew through the wood, allowing them to escape.If wire shelves are used in the cage for the animals to climb on, they should be made of wire with openings no wider than ½ by ½ inch.The new powder-coated wire rat cages with solid metal shelves and plastic cat pan bottoms are the easiest to clean, and rats seem to enjoy climbing on the various levels.Holders with chew guards for the water bottle are available.Exercise Routine exercise is necessary for good health in all animals.Boschert , DVM, DACLAM , Washington University Last updated: Sept 2024 v3229967 Housing | Diet | Exercise | Temperament | For More Information | Your pet rat will need a suitable cage, a balanced diet, and the opportunity for exercise and socialization with you in order to remain in good health.Rats are extremely active and enjoy opportunities to exercise and play.Access to exercise wheels, tubes, ladders, and climbing blocks provides stimulation and is part of a balanced life.If you get an exercise wheel for your rat, it should be at least 12 to 14 inches in diameter.Wheels should be smooth inside, rather than perforated, so as not to entrap rats’ tiny toes and feet.The cage should be large enough to accommodate some of these cage toys and allow comfortable movement around them.
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Source: pdf-raw/owner-care/merck_rat_mouse.txt · https://www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets