So as I order rats online for the first time, I'm coming to terms with the costs. Ideally, I want to make this batch of rats last as long as it is safe.

It's recommended to offer food every week by many sources. Others say every 10 days. Some say 2-3 weeks is okay.

This is in the case of appropriate food sizes, not so big that they're full for weeks. My BP is on small rats and I don't expect him to move up in size as he's a male.

I know BPs can go months without food when on strike, but it's not a question of if they can survive a certain amount of time without food; I want him to be healthy.

What do you guys think? How often do you offer? What's a safe amount of time to make sure the rats last if possible?

Just to clarify, my noodle is more important to me than saving money and I'll feed him as often as necessary for him to thrive.