Housing

Question
QUESTION: I was in the process of trying to de-rat my barn and feed (no killing or chemicals involved)and upset a rat nest. I tried to get the babies (1 week old at most) back to their family, but that didn't work. I brought them in and bottle raised them (2 girls) and kept them under my desk at work for feeding(!). Now they are strong and healthy, but I am worried about their happiness. I want to get a bigger cage where they can really burrow and explore. But I also think of where they came from and belong. They can't go back to the wild now, can they? I can't stomach the thought of one of the chickens or 6 cats nabbing them. I love them and want them inside with me (selfish), but know it's what is best for them that matters. They are very friendly and let me hold and pet them. I named them Rosie(piglet) and Isabella (smaller one). They don't bite at all. Should I keep them with me or set them free, far from the other animals, like in the old chicken coop up back? Its cold out.

ANSWER: Hello Greta,
this is one of those hard decisions, the rats could live on their own in the wild. You can take the rats out of the wild, but you can't take the wild out of the rats.
You say you have a lot of predators around and since you took care of them I can how stressful it would be to not know what is going to happen to your rats in the wild. If I was in your position, I would keep them and take care of them. Their life with you will be better than out in the wild.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I use wood chips for the babies bedding, is that alright? I was using the natural cotton batt when they were younger, but they seem to like the wood best. Is there anything else out there that is better for burrowing for when I get them a bigger home?

Answer
yes, generally wood chips can be too hard for burrowing and some can be really bad such as cedar and pine bedding. I always am a favorite to carefresh bedding or soft-sorbent bedding. I believed it's recycled fluffy paper that's really soft and great for burrowing. I know some people will also buy a tank or a sandbox and put regular play sand and let them burrow in that from time to time.
Rats are extremely smart creatures and if you try they can actually recognize their name and do tricks for you. :)
I think with them being with you they will get the best chance at life and will live a longer happier life. :)