You know Chris I wondered if I'd have problems with feeding off rats as I have had them in the past as pets (pre-snake days). At first it was a bit odd but then I made some decisions that make me feel fine about it. Just my mindset of course, so don't take it as gospel LOL.


The breeding colony rats each have names, they live very well in the best way I know how to not only let them breed well but also to thrive as animals in my care. I'm not doing it the most cost effective way but it's still reasonable that way and I found the balance of what works for me and for my colony breeders. I also won't be feeding off my good breeders as they age out. They will just go hang out and retire. That may seem silly but it's my own little thank you for their contribution to my snake's well being.

The feeders also are kept as best I can...no overcrowding and tons of good eats and clean bedding. Stuff to play in (tubes etc). I can't give them a long life but I can know that I provided them a good life while they existed. For me that makes it okay as I know rats live pretty tough wild so these captive feeder rats have a pretty fine life albeit a short one. They however are never given a name or handled more than necessary (they all get a once a week physical checkover when I do my population count). I know that their ending in a snake's tub will be extremely fast and clean so they won't suffer unduly.

For me, Chris, I know what I can do for the rats and what for my morals I feel is right so that helps not feel badly. I also always remember I'm a meat eater to and sometimes I doubt the pig that provided our porkchops for tonight was treated half as decent as my breeder/feeder rat colony.

Hope this helps a bit.