Hey all,

I have looked at a ton of the post in here and breeding rats is something I never thought I would do but it seems it may be better than buying F/T at this point.

I have a few questions if you would not mind answering them.

1.) I have 10 boas now and plan on breeding for the first time this fall, I am buying about 4 different rat sizes all the time from pups to large to feed them all. Is breeding rats a money and time saver with 10 snakes or in your opinion is it still better to order F/T? Also the ten snakes will probably be 15-20 next year at this time

2.) How bad is the smell? My snake room is in our basement and I have room to set up a rat rack with tubs, I am just wondering if my house will smell from this or if I clean 2-3 times a week if the smell will not be noticeable.

3.) Where do you get breeders to start your colonies? Do you just go to petsmart and ask for 1.2 rats or is there another way to do it?

4.) what is the best diet for a colony? I have plenty of horse/farm feed stores around my house so bedding and stuff is not a problem, I also have 4 dogs and I read that some high protein senior dog food could work.

Thanks for taking any time you have on this and it is much appreciated.