In order to try and create a balanced sampling of typical feeder rodent conditions in the United States, we have all had to look at quite a few photographs, good and bad. For some reason, this particular image haunts me - something about the excited rat jumping up on the wire next to the red water valve and the phrase, “. . . no shavings - it is a wash down system, straight into the sewer!”.

I know, we aren’t supposed to make the issue personal, but the image of that rat will remain with me long after this campaign is over.

The photo was originally found on Kingsnake.com, and not posted by the alleged owner of the cage system, so we cannot say with any certainty who is responsible for the multiple problems:

* rats housed on bare wire floor
* overcrowding of animals in cage
* unsanitary conditions

* wire of cage either rusted or dirty
* bottom pan filled with fecal material and puddles of urine or water (possible evidence of dried urine - pale rings)
* cage as shown unable to be properly sanitized