The most cost efficient thing to do is raise your own. However, you need space and time. Space for the racks and time to clean, feed and care for the rats. They are more work than snakes. They also smell. So, I would not suggest keeping them in the house.
The next best thing is to buy frozen. I've heard good things about Big Cheese Rodent Factory. They pack their rodents in vacuum sealed bags, which helps prevent freezer burn and prolongs shelf life. It would also help you with the perception of frozen rats near food. I have not ordered from them before, but will probably do so on my next rodent order. The only thing I don't like about them is you have to call, no on-line ordering system.
Reply With Quote