Originally posted by Kfamr

I think only newspaper with Vegitable ink (?) is okay to use.
Yep only vegetable died newspaper is safe, although almost ALL newspapers now use vegetable ink, so it shouldn't be a problem. I agree that the silent treatment and attitude is not going to do any good and will just make the situation worse. I would not suggest adopting these two rats as the female is most definitely going to be pregnant if they are housed together.

If you are going to the Humane Society, don't go alone. Take your dad with you! This is your chance to show your dad how sweet and loving ratties are. You NEED to prove him wrong! Most people will dislike rats until they meet a really social one. All it takes is one ratty to change their feelings towards all rats.

I would not suggest buying that cage. First off, it's a tank topper, meaning it sets on top of a tank. For two rats if would be OK, but they really do need something bigger. I use tank toppers for my breeders when they are together or when I am cleaning the cages. One thing that isn't good about that cage is it's galvanized wire and with a buck it can get stinky pretty fast. They soak up urine and hold the smell and there is no way of getting it out. I would suggest looking into a Martins cage, like a 680 or so, should be fine for two adults, but no more than that. Please get powder coated too, as it's much more gentle on the feet and lasts a heck of a lot longer! Another thing about the cage is it would be terribly crowded if you want to add toys. There just isn't much space in the cage for hammocks etc.

Also, the toys you picked out are a bit too small for the rats. The mini litter pan they will not use. You need a ferret sized pan, which is what I use. They need BIG toys, especially if you are getting males. They are ferret sized, so ferret sized toys are perfect for them. You will need a ferret sized igloo as well as all others are much too small for ratties. The Kritter Krawler is basically a form of torment for rats. Rats are terrified in those and it's not good on the back.

Newspaper should not be used as bedding, but more of something to play with. I use both Aspen shavings, Carefresh Ultra and Hemp as bedding, with Aspen pellets in the litter box.

If you plan on adopting both the ratties, PLEASE make sure the male is neutered BEFORE being placed with the female. It only takes one second for a male to impregnate the female, and the Humane Society should be able to neuter him before he leaves the shelter. Neutering is fairly expensive, around $100 so that is another thing you will have to save for.