Want to Switch to Rats

I have a 90g male bp who is currently feeding on live hopper mice and I wanted to switch him to rats within his next couple feedings. What size rat would be appropriate to start feeding him if he has been eating hopper mice since I have had him?

Thanks in advance!

He could probably handle a rat fuzzy. I think they're about the same size as a hopper mouse :)

I will be hopefully transitioning Gene from fuzzy mice, which are too small, to small rats. I think that would be the proper size for him. I just have to get a tank or tub for the rodents because even 12 rats in the tub I have is far too many. I think that if its breathing, stinking, and moving, Gene will eat it regardless of it being a mouse or rat, especially if they are similar in size.

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Originally Posted by Quacking-Terror

I will be hopefully transitioning Gene from fuzzy mice, which are too small, to small rats. I think that would be the proper size for him. I just have to get a tank or tub for the rodents because even 12 rats in the tub I have is far too many. I think that if its breathing, stinking, and moving, Gene will eat it regardless of it being a mouse or rat, especially if they are similar in size.

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Fuzzy mice to small rats is quite the size jump, my friend. Small rats are about 4.5" long (without the tail) where as fuzzy mice are tiny. Again, I'd say it would be best for you to go with fuzzy rats, because they're bigger than fuzzy mice but not huge comparatively, and then up the size when you see fit.

I would also say go with rat pups..Not quite pinkeys but with the hair on them and eyes still shut. That size will keep him satisified and get him growing good for you.

I see, Alexandra. Thanks for the tip. Gene is probably 14" long and as big around as a half dollar (I don't have a scale atm) and fuzzy mice just seem too small. I'll make sure to get something smaller on the rat scale :). Missriss, let me know how the transition goes, I'd like to know how easy or difficult it was for you.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Quacking-Terror

I see, Alexandra. Thanks for the tip. Gene is probably 14" long and as big around as a half dollar (I don't have a scale atm) and fuzzy mice just seem too small. I'll make sure to get something smaller on the rat scale :). Missriss, let me know how the transition goes, I'd like to know how easy or difficult it was for you.

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rat pups should be the right size for it

Thanks for all the good responses! Monday is his next feeding day so I think I will give rat pups a try. I'll let you know
How it goes!

Small to medium sized Fuzzies are perfect. However some dealers sell Fuzzies up to 20g which is a little big yet for a 90g BP.

@ Quacking-Terror, I would get your BP weighed before upgrading him, it sounds like he may be the correct weight, but if he is less than 500 or 600g, small rats might be too big!
Just a suggestion:gj:

"rat pups" are about the same size as adult mice. I'd get him up to 200 grams and medium sized mice before switching.

(I actually leave my BPs on "jumbo" or "retired breeder" mice until their 2nd summer, because mice are generally so much cheaper. And then I switch over to weaned/small rats for the big eaters.)