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M

McBeelah

Guest
I have recently taken in 3 female rats from a friend of mine who has checked himself into a recovery house.

He loves his rats but some of the stuff about their care really bothers me, and every time I try to talk to him about it he gets super defensive and treats me like I dont know anything about rats.

I love rats but I dont want to keep them. I have enough pets. I will have to give them back at some point.

So here is what bothers me:

Glass tank with two duct tape covered, chewed up plastic bins for other levels.
Filthy with pee and droppings(he got mad when I scrubbed everything clean because he says they like their own smell) I'm talking serious stank here.
Only toys are chewed up plastic containers, including mini yogurt containers which he uses as a treat.
Old bits of human food all over the cage going bad.

And now my newest issue is one appears to have a tiny, twisted, partially severed nail or tip of a finger on a front paw. I cant afford a vet trip so asked him what he wanted me to do. He said its most likely from her and her sisters scrapping, and to keep her warm and steam her. Pretty sure steam is only used in certain treatments that are respiratory related. Not for an injured toe.

Any advice would be greatly helpful. In helping the injured rat and to dealing with their owner before I have to give them back.

I have currently put all the plastic crap aside and got a wire cage addition for another level, as well as got them a salt lick and some wood and alfalfa chew tunnels. also made them a towel stuffed condo out of a cardboard box.
 
Can you get a pic of the toe? Is it inflamed or swollen?

I'm so sorry about the situation you and the rats are in...it sounds terribly neglectful and dangerous to their health. What bedding did they have them on?
 
Glad they are with you.
Just so you know, rats don't get salt licks, and towels can be dangerous as toes can get caught in the loops - fleece or cotton baby blankets would be better
 
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