I wasn't sure how to state my title. Basically I'm wondering how long can you safely thaw a rat for before it is no longer safe to feed? I'm currently feeding my BP small rats and I generally set them out for a few hours, make sure they're thawed and feed her, but occasionally I have forgotten them (because I get busy with kids or what not) and they sit out for much long. I understand that summer time is different because of the heat, but here in Wisconsin, it isn't that warm yet.

Also, if I put a rat that has sat out too long into her cage will she just eat it or know its bad by smell?

Thanks for any advice.