[LT_2022]

Instead of the pouch, try using a small box to carry the rats around. A shipping box that is just going to be recycled, maybe a plastic storage container you have lying around, extra large Kritter Keeper, etc. A lid is a plus to keep the rats contained. Cut out some holes to allow for air flow if needed. Once they're more used to you and being handled, you can slowly introduce them to the pouch.

Can you can set up a rat play pen in the same room as the cage? It doesn't have to be huge. You can buy small animal playpens or DIY one. There are lots of DIY rat play pen ideas online.

 

[LT_2022]

That's a good idea, maybe I'll try that! Let just hope they don't jump out of the cage while trying to wrangle them into it lol! I was also thinking of maybe rolling their cage into the room right next to the space where they are so they could free roam the entire room, do you think this is a good idea?

Put some treats into the box so they'll be distracted from trying to jump out of the box. A box will high sides will work. If the rats aren't hand friendly, use a smaller box to scoop them out of the cage and into the box with the high sides so you can then carry them wherever.

No reason why you can't roll the cage to a different room for play time. Just be sure to rat-proof the room. Plug up any cracks, close off floor and low-to-the-floor vents or block them with something heavy, etc. If the room can't be rat-proofed well, set up a play pen that you can easily take down and put away after play time.