A Tooey Update

Question
Hi Sandra!
I'm writing to update you on Tooey (and new mom Kim) in Ohio. First of all, thank you so much for your great advice and ESPECIALLY for your very wonderful, Very informative website. I was so excited to get ALL the info I needed in one spot. Your quick response to my email was also absolutely wonderful!

OK so here's what's going on. Tooey is in a huge 40 gallon breeder tank with a double screen top. I read all that you said about tanks versus cages and I decided that if I clean the tank everyday and let him out everyday than it may work out. Right now I had the tank already, but I am working on the funds to get a cage, although it'll probably be a little bit. Right now I am saving up for the vet visit which will take place in a couple of weeks. Not that he seems sick at all, but I thought because he's a rescue, and my first rat, it'd be a good idea to get him checked out.

Tooey is adorable and it took me two days before I realized that I am head over heels in love with him! I will admit that I am still too nervous to pick him up, but I pet him to sleep on a daily basis. I went ahead and followed your diet and he just loves it! He really does eat all the components so I know he's getting a completely balanced diet. I give him grapes or carrots and other veggies from the list everyday.

I cut up fleece blankets and put in two "litterboxes" that he uses most of the time *lol*    He loves his little Kleenex boxes the best even though I gave him larger spacious boxes to use. I did put a big plastic wheel in for him a couple of days ago, but so far he show's no interest in it. That's OK though, he can do whatever his little heart desires!  I was pretty sad when I realized their short lifespan and I don't know how old Tooey is because he's a rescue, but he's guaranteed a happy comfortable life with me, no matter how long or short.
On a more personal note, I'm about a half hour south of Cleveland, but will eventually be moving to NC. My mom just got a house up in Spruce Pine so I imagine I'll be heading there sometime in the next couple years or so :) Oh and you're right about the weather, especially lately...total yuck!
Thanks again for all your help!
Kim & Tooey in Ohio

Answer
I grew up in Youngstown.  You must be close to Youngstown if your south of Cleveland, unless my geography stinks.  I slept alot in high school.


The big breeder tank will be ok for now. Its pretty big.

If you send me a photo of Tooey I can try to guess his age for you.
Is his fur real soft?  

Dont be scared to pick him up.  Let your hand lay flat and let him come to you. Make sure you have a safe place to put him once you get him out of the tank in case he does get away.  I still use cardboard walls around my rat room just to keep the old boys from going under the hermit crab tanks and going for the power cords etc.... they are so used to the cardboard they dont even bother trying to get under it etc...

Saving money for the vet is more important the a cage, I agree.  He should be ok in the tank as long as you keep the urine scent down which I am sure you will.  If you find a place where he pees most, that is the only place you need to scoop and replace daily. Saves time and trouble for sure.