Rats don't require large amounts of housing space but they often do better in pairs or groups. They like to climb and play, so a tall cage with horizontal bars works best. Aquariums are okay for rats, but with inadequate ventilation the cage will need to be cleaned more often. Try to avoid cages with wire bottoms due to possible foot problems. Make sure the wire openings are small and tight. Rats can get through some tight spaces. Rats eat just about anything, so provide them with a quality pelleted or block food as their food base. Also provide small amounts of quality vegetables, fruits, seeds, dog food or biscuits, whole wheat breads and nuts. Rats love to play so provide the cage with toys and furniture, particularly those safe and strong enough for large birds or ferrets; like hammocks, chew toys, ladders, ropes, and platforms. Paper tubes, paper sacks, and boxes make simple toys.