As a rat owner it is up to you to provide your rats with the most appropriate environment possible. It is the first step towards maintaining health and well being. Your rats environment consists of its housing, accessories, bedding, litter, toys, play and free roam area, as well as the room(s) and areas where the rats will be kept. Take the time to evaluate, research, and plan your rat’s environment within your household. With proper environment there is a good chance that you will experience less behavior problems and respiratory issues. Some of the environmental factor that can cause problems are crowded cages, improper bedding and/or litter, unmonitored high and low room temperatures, lack of stimulation in the environment, stress inducing noise, poor cage hygiene, and inappropriate housing. This section of the care guide will address these, and other environmental issues.