Optimal cage size for two rats

Factors Influencing Optimal Cage Size

Rat Welfare Considerations

Behavioral Needs

Rats require a living space that supports their innate social structure, curiosity, and physical activity. When housing a pair, the enclosure must allow continuous visual and tactile contact while providing separate zones for retreat and interaction.

Key behavioral requirements include:

Social contact: Direct line‑of‑sight and ability to move freely between each other’s areas prevent stress and promote bonding.
Exploration: Sufficient floor area encourages foraging, digging, and manipulation of objects, reducing stereotypic pacing.
Climbing and vertical movement: Platforms, ramps, and sturdy tubes satisfy the need to ascend and descend, mimicking natural arboreal behavior.
Nesting and burrowing: A quiet corner with soft bedding enables construction of nests, essential for rest and thermoregulation.
Chewing: Durable chewable materials such as untreated wood or safe cardboard prevent dental overgrowth and satisfy gnawing instincts.

A practical guideline is to allocate at least 0.5 square feet (≈0.05 m²) of uninterrupted floor space per rat, supplemented by vertical structures that add equivalent usable area. This baseline supports the listed behaviors without crowding, while larger enclosures further enhance enrichment potential and reduce aggression.

Health Benefits

Adequate enclosure dimensions for a pair of rats directly affect their physiological condition. Sufficient floor space permits natural locomotion, which sustains cardiovascular function and prevents obesity. Proper ventilation within a spacious cage reduces accumulation of ammonia, lowering the risk of respiratory infections.

Decreased stress hormones resulting from reduced crowding
Lower incidence of tracheal and pulmonary disease due to improved air quality
Enhanced musculoskeletal development through unrestricted climbing and running
Strengthened immune response associated with regular exercise and reduced aggression
Stable social hierarchy that minimizes fighting-related injuries

Space that allows each animal to retreat to a private area supports grooming and rest, essential processes for skin integrity and wound healing. Unconstrained movement also encourages exploration of enrichment items, which stimulates neural pathways and promotes cognitive resilience.

Guidelines recommend a minimum floor area of 0.5 square feet per rat and a cage height of at least 12 inches to accommodate vertical activity. Providing multiple levels and hiding spots further distributes activity, preventing localized wear and maintaining consistent environmental conditions. Adhering to these dimensions yields measurable improvements in health metrics for two‑rat housing systems.

Minimum Space Requirements

General Guidelines for Rats

When housing a pair of rats, the enclosure must provide sufficient floor space, vertical enrichment, and secure ventilation. A minimum of 1 square foot (approximately 930 cm²) of solid floor per animal is required; therefore, a cage offering at least 2 square feet of uninterrupted floor area meets the basic spatial demand. Larger dimensions improve mobility, reduce stress, and support natural foraging behavior.

Key dimensions and features:

Floor area: ≥ 2 sq ft total, uninterrupted solid surface.
Height: ≥ 12 in (30 cm) to accommodate climbing structures.
Bar spacing: ≤ ½ in (13 mm) to prevent escape.
Ventilation: Mesh sides with adequate airflow, avoiding drafts.
Materials: Non‑toxic, chew‑resistant components; stainless steel preferred for durability.

Environmental considerations include:

Bedding: Absorbent, dust‑free substrate such as paper or aspen wood shavings; replace regularly to maintain hygiene.
Enrichment: Multiple levels, tunnels, chew toys, and hideouts to satisfy instinctual activities.
Cleaning: Removable trays and modular design simplify weekly deep cleaning and spot sanitation.

Placement guidelines:

Locate the cage away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and loud noises.
Ensure stable, level support to prevent tipping.
Provide a consistent light‑dark cycle, typically 12 hours each.

By adhering to these parameters, caretakers create a safe, stimulating environment that supports the physical health and behavioral wellbeing of two rats.

Specifics for Two Rats

When housing a pair of rats, the enclosure must provide enough floor space for independent movement, social interaction, and enrichment placement. Research indicates that a minimum of 0.5 square feet (≈ 0.05 m²) per animal prevents crowding; therefore, a cage offering at least 1 square foot (≈ 0.09 m²) of unobstructed floor area satisfies basic spatial requirements. Height should allow vertical climbing and nesting; a minimum interior clearance of 12 inches (≈ 30 cm) accommodates standard multi‑level platforms and tubes.

Key dimensions and features:

Floor area: ≥ 1 sq ft total, measured as usable floor without bars or compartments.
Vertical clearance: ≥ 12 in, enabling stacked accessories and climbing structures.
Bar spacing: ≤ ½ in (≈ 1.3 cm) to prevent escape while allowing ventilation.
Material: Solid‑core plastic or stainless steel; both resist gnawing and simplify sanitation.
Cleaning access: Removable trays or doors that open without dismantling the entire cage.

Social dynamics demand separate zones for individual resting and shared activity. Provide at least two nesting boxes, each occupying roughly 10 % of the total floor area, and position them on opposite sides to reduce territorial disputes. Include a minimum of three enrichment items—such as tunnels, chew blocks, and climbing ladders—distributed throughout the enclosure to encourage exploration and exercise.

Ventilation must be continuous but not drafty; positioning the cage away from direct airflow prevents respiratory irritation while maintaining air exchange. Regular maintenance, involving weekly full‑cage cleaning and daily spot cleaning, preserves hygiene and reduces odor accumulation.

In summary, a cage meeting the specified floor area, height, bar spacing, material durability, and enrichment distribution creates an environment where two rats can thrive without compromising health or behavior.

Calculating the Right Cage Size

Understanding Volume and Floor Space

Cubic Inches and Square Inches

When determining an enclosure for a pair of rats, both floor area and internal volume must meet minimum standards to support health, activity, and waste management.

A floor space of at least 600 sq in (≈3.9 ft²) provides sufficient room for nesting, foraging, and exercise. Larger areas reduce competition and allow placement of enrichment items without overcrowding. A volume of 1,200 cu in (≈20 cu ft) or more ensures adequate air circulation and space for vertical structures such as climbing platforms and hammocks.

Recommended dimensions

Floor area: 600 – 1,200 sq in (3.9 – 8.3 ft²)
Internal volume: 1,200 – 2,400 cu in (20 – 40 cu ft)

These ranges assume standard cage height of 12 in; increasing height expands usable volume without altering floor footprint. Adjustments may be necessary for specific breeds, activity levels, or the inclusion of additional accessories.

The Importance of Height

Rats instinctively explore vertically; a cage that lacks sufficient height restricts climbing, perching, and nesting behaviors that are essential for physical health and mental stimulation.

In the wild, rats navigate multi‑level environments, using elevated platforms to survey surroundings and escape predators. Replicating this three‑dimensional space indoors encourages natural locomotion, reduces repetitive movements, and prevents obesity.

For a pair of adult rats, a minimum internal height of 30 cm (12 in) should accompany a floor area of 80 × 50 cm (31 × 20 in). Increasing height beyond this baseline yields diminishing returns; however, adding a second tier or a climbing structure that reaches 45–60 cm (18–24 in) maximizes usable volume without compromising stability.

Benefits of adequate vertical space include:

Enhanced muscle development through climbing and jumping.
Decreased stress markers associated with confinement.
Greater opportunity for environmental enrichment placement.
Improved airflow and waste separation when platforms are used.

Formulas and Calculators

Common Calculation Methods

Determining the appropriate dimensions for a cage that houses a pair of laboratory rats relies on several quantitative approaches. Each method translates the biological needs of the animals into measurable space requirements, allowing consistent application across facilities.

Floor‑area calculation: Multiply the recommended minimum floor space per individual (commonly 0.2 m²) by two, then add a safety margin of 10 %. The result yields the total horizontal area that should be provided.
Volume‑based estimate: Compute the cubic capacity by multiplying the floor area obtained above by a minimum height of 0.3 m. This ensures adequate air volume and vertical enrichment opportunities.
Allometric scaling: Apply the formula V = k · W^0.75, where V is the required cage volume, W is the combined body mass of the rats, and k is a species‑specific constant (approximately 0.5 for rodents). The output offers a mass‑adjusted volume target.
Enrichment factor: Add 15 % to the floor area for each additional enrichment element (e.g., tunnels, nesting material). This adjustment accounts for the extra space needed to maintain functional use of the accessories.

When the calculated dimensions are implemented, the cage meets the essential spatial standards while allowing flexibility for behavioral enrichment and proper ventilation. Regular verification against these metrics ensures that the enclosure remains suitable as the animals mature or as experimental conditions evolve.

Online Resources

Online resources provide the most current data for determining appropriate enclosure dimensions for a pair of rats. Peer‑reviewed articles hosted on platforms such as PubMed and Google Scholar detail experimental measurements of rat activity space, allowing precise calculations of floor area and height requirements. University extension websites (e.g., Cornell University, University of California Davis) publish species‑specific housing guidelines derived from laboratory standards and field observations.

Specialized pet‑care portals—Rodent Welfare, The Rat Fan Club, and the ASPCA’s rat care page—offer downloadable checklists that include minimum square footage, recommended cage height, and enrichment placement. Interactive tools on these sites let users input weight and activity level to generate customized size recommendations.

Community forums and discussion boards (e.g., Reddit’s r/Rats, RatForums.com) contain real‑world reports from experienced owners, including photographs of compliant cages and links to supplier catalogs. These threads often reference manufacturer specifications for modular cages, allowing direct comparison of product dimensions against scientific benchmarks.

Video tutorials on platforms such as YouTube, produced by veterinary professionals and certified animal behaviorists, demonstrate cage assembly, space utilization, and safety checks. Closed captions and timestamps facilitate quick reference to sections covering cage size calculations.

A concise list of reliable sources:

PubMed and Google Scholar for peer‑reviewed studies on rat spatial needs.
University extension pages (Cornell, UC Davis) for evidence‑based housing standards.
ASPCA and Rodent Welfare websites for official minimum size guidelines.
Reddit r/Rats and RatForums.com for community‑verified cage layouts.
YouTube channels of veterinary schools for visual demonstrations of proper enclosure setup.

Consulting these resources ensures that cage dimensions meet both scientific recommendations and practical considerations for two rats.

Features of an Ideal Rat Cage

Cage Dimensions and Layout

Horizontal vs. Vertical Space

When housing a pair of rats, the balance between floor area and cage height determines comfort, activity levels, and health outcomes.

Rats are ground‑dwelling foragers; they spend the majority of their time moving laterally, climbing, and exploring. Sufficient horizontal space allows multiple individuals to establish separate territories, reduces competition for resources, and supports natural foraging behavior. A floor surface of at least 0.8 m² per pair provides enough room for nesting, feeding stations, and exercise wheels without crowding.

Vertical space contributes to enrichment but should complement, not replace, floor area. Rats readily climb, so a cage height of 45–60 cm enables the placement of multiple levels, tunnels, and climbing structures. Elevated platforms increase the total usable area, effectively adding 30–40 % of floor space when properly arranged.

Key considerations for allocating horizontal versus vertical space:

Floor area: Prioritize a spacious base; ensure unobstructed pathways between food, water, and nesting zones.
Height utilization: Install sturdy platforms, hammocks, and ladders; avoid excessive height that forces rats to spend time inactive.
Enrichment distribution: Spread toys and shelters across both levels to encourage movement and prevent dominance of a single area.
Safety: Secure all vertical elements to prevent collapse; maintain a clear line of sight to monitor behavior.

Optimizing both dimensions creates an environment where rats can exhibit natural locomotion, social interaction, and exploratory behavior, leading to improved welfare and reduced stress.

Levels and Platforms

When housing a pair of rats, the vertical dimension of the cage contributes significantly to overall welfare. Incorporating multiple levels and platforms maximizes usable space without enlarging the floor footprint, allowing the animals to exhibit natural climbing and nesting behaviors.

Key considerations for installing levels and platforms:

Platform size: Each platform should measure at least 12 × 12 inches (30 × 30 cm) to accommodate two adult rats comfortably. Larger platforms reduce crowding during simultaneous use.
Clearance between levels: Minimum vertical gap of 6 inches (15 cm) prevents interference with climbing and ensures safe passage. Higher gaps, up to 12 inches (30 cm), support more vigorous activity.
Material strength: Use stainless steel or reinforced acrylic that can bear a combined weight of 2 kg (4.4 lb) per level. Reinforced mesh flooring beneath platforms adds stability.
Attachment method: Secure platforms with lock‑in brackets or heavy‑duty bolts to the cage frame. Avoid snap‑fit connections that may loosen under repeated use.
Accessibility: Provide removable ladders or ramps with a slope of 30–45 degrees to facilitate movement between levels. Ensure ramps are wide enough (minimum 2 inches or 5 cm) for two rats to pass simultaneously.

A typical configuration for two rats includes a base level with a solid floor, one or two elevated platforms, and a ramp linking each tier. This arrangement yields an effective floor area increase of 30–40 % compared with a single‑level enclosure, supporting exercise, exploration, and territorial needs while maintaining a compact cage footprint.

Material and Construction

Wire Spacing

Wire spacing directly affects the health and safety of a pair of rats sharing an enclosure. Gaps wider than 1 cm allow escape, while gaps narrower than 0.5 cm impede airflow and increase humidity, fostering respiratory problems. The ideal spacing balances containment, ventilation, and chewing resistance.

Key parameters for wire mesh:

Maximum aperture: 0.8 cm (approximately ⅓ inch) prevents the animals from slipping through while permitting adequate airflow.
Material thickness: 0.8–1 mm stainless steel or coated steel resists gnawing and reduces rust formation.
Bar orientation: Horizontal bars spaced at 0.6 cm and vertical bars at 0.8 cm provide structural stability and minimize stress points.
Surface finish: Smooth, rounded edges eliminate injury risk during climbing or nesting.

Properly selected wire spacing also simplifies cleaning; larger openings allow quick removal of droppings and bedding without disturbing the cage structure. When configuring a dual‑rat enclosure, verify that all side panels, the front door, and the top vent conform to the same aperture standards to maintain a uniform environment throughout the habitat.

Durability and Safety

Choosing a cage that balances longevity with protection is essential when housing a pair of rats. Durable construction reduces the need for frequent replacement, while safety features prevent injury and escape.

Material durability

Stainless steel: resists corrosion, withstands chewing, easy to sanitize.
High‑density polyethylene: lightweight, impact‑resistant, tolerates repeated cleaning cycles.
Powder‑coated metal: offers rust protection, maintains structural integrity under heavy use.
Tempered glass: provides visibility, but requires reinforced framing to avoid breakage.

Safety considerations

Reinforced bars or solid walls prevent gnawing and breaches.
Rounded edges eliminate pinch points and reduce the risk of cuts.
Secure locking mechanisms stop accidental openings during handling.
Adequate ventilation maintains air quality without compromising structural strength.
Non‑porous surfaces inhibit bacterial growth and simplify disinfection.

A cage that combines corrosion‑resistant metal frames with chew‑proof panels, secure latches, and smooth interior surfaces delivers both long‑term durability and a safe environment for two rats. Regular inspection of joints, hinges, and mesh ensures that the enclosure remains robust and hazard‑free throughout its service life.

Enrichment and Accessories

Hiding Spots and Tunnels

Providing adequate concealment and passageways is a non‑negotiable element of a well‑designed enclosure for a pair of rats. Rats are naturally nocturnal and highly territorial; without secure hideaways they experience chronic stress, which can manifest as aggression, reduced grooming, and diminished immune function.

Multiple hideouts distributed throughout the cage prevent competition for a single refuge.
Tunnels should connect at least two separate areas, allowing movement without exposure.
Each hideout must be large enough for a rat to turn fully, typically a minimum internal diameter of 4 cm.
Tunnels should have a clearance of at least 2 cm on each side to accommodate adult body width.
Entry points must be smooth‑edged to avoid injury.

Strategic placement of these structures preserves the cage’s spatial balance. Position one hideout in a corner, another on the opposite side, and a third at mid‑height to satisfy vertical exploration. Tunnels should intersect hideouts at right angles, creating a network that encourages natural foraging routes while maintaining clear sight lines for observation.

Materials such as untreated wood, solid PVC, or high‑density polyethylene provide durability and ease of cleaning. Avoid porous substrates that retain urine or become breeding grounds for pathogens. All components must be securely attached to the cage frame to prevent accidental dislodgement during vigorous play. Regular inspection for wear, sharp edges, or chew damage ensures continued safety and functionality.

Chews and Toys

Chews and toys are essential components of a suitable living environment for a pair of rats. Proper selection and placement of these items influence the animals’ physical health, dental integrity, and behavioral enrichment within the space allocated for them.

Hard, natural materials such as untreated wood blocks, mineral chews, and sisal rope serve as effective dental wear tools. Items must be large enough to prevent accidental ingestion of fragments yet small enough to fit comfortably in the enclosure’s corners and shelving. Materials that splinter or contain toxic additives are unsuitable; only products certified as rodent‑safe should be used.

Interactive toys include tunnels, climbing ladders, hammocks, and puzzle feeders. Each should be anchored securely to avoid collapse when two rats explore simultaneously. Vertical elements maximize usable space, allowing the animals to move throughout the cage without overcrowding the floor area. Toys that encourage foraging or problem solving promote natural exploratory behavior and reduce stereotypic activity.

A balanced enrichment program supplies multiple chews and toys, rotating them weekly to maintain novelty. Items must be inspected daily for wear, broken pieces, or contamination and replaced promptly. Cleaning schedules should align with cage maintenance routines, ensuring that all enrichment objects remain hygienic without disrupting the rats’ routine.

Food and Water Provisions

Providing adequate nutrition and hydration is essential when housing a pair of rats in a confined environment. The size of the enclosure influences the placement of feeding devices, the frequency of cleaning, and the animals’ ability to access resources without competition.

A secure, tip‑proof water bottle should be mounted on the cage wall at a height reachable by both rodents. The bottle must hold at least 150 ml to accommodate daily consumption and reduce the need for refilling. Position the dispenser away from the primary nesting area to prevent contamination.

Food should be offered in a solid, chew‑resistant container that limits spillage. Recommended practices include:

Provide a balanced rodent pellet mix formulated for adult rats, delivering approximately 15 g per animal per day.
Supplement with fresh vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots) and a limited amount of fruit, refreshed every 24 hours.
Place the feeding container on the far side of the cage from the water source to encourage movement throughout the space.

Regular maintenance ensures that food and water remain uncontaminated. Empty and clean the water bottle and food container at least once daily, and inspect for signs of mold or spoilage. Replace bedding and perform a thorough cage cleaning weekly to maintain hygiene and prevent disease.

Sourcing and Maintaining Your Cage

Where to Purchase

Pet Stores vs. Online Retailers

Choosing an appropriate enclosure for a pair of rats directly affects health, activity levels, and social behavior. The cage must provide at least 2 ft² of floor space per animal, a minimum of 4 ft² total, with a height of 12‑18 inches to accommodate climbing and nesting structures.

Pet stores allow physical examination of cages before purchase. Staff can demonstrate door mechanisms, material durability, and ventilation. However, inventory usually consists of a few standard models, often limited to the 4‑ft² range. Stocked cages may lack modular extensions, restricting future upgrades as the rats mature.

Online retailers list a broader spectrum of dimensions, including expandable systems that exceed the 4‑ft² baseline. Product pages typically include exact measurements, material certifications, and customer reviews that reference long‑term use. Shipping adds cost and potential for damage; reliable vendors offer free returns and protective packaging to mitigate risk.

Key comparison factors:

Size precision: In‑store models provide tactile verification; online listings deliver exact numeric data and custom‑size options.
Price: Bulk online discounts often lower unit cost; brick‑and‑mortar pricing includes overhead and limited promotions.
Availability: Physical stores guarantee immediate pickup; e‑commerce may require days to weeks for delivery.
After‑sale support: Retail chains offer on‑site assistance and warranty processing; online sellers rely on email or phone service, sometimes with longer response times.

For owners prioritizing immediate assessment and hands‑on support, pet shops remain practical. Those seeking maximum size flexibility, detailed specifications, and potentially lower costs should consider reputable online platforms, ensuring the selected cage meets or exceeds the 4 ft² minimum floor area and appropriate height.

DIY Options

A suitable enclosure for a pair of rats must provide enough floor space for movement, climbing, and nesting while allowing easy cleaning and ventilation. Research indicates that each adult rat requires at least 0.5 sq ft of floor area; therefore, a combined minimum of 1 sq ft is recommended, with larger dimensions improving welfare.

When constructing a cage from scratch, prioritize sturdy frames, secure mesh, and modular components that can be adjusted as the animals grow. The following DIY options meet these criteria:

Plywood base with wire side panels – Cut a 24 × 18 in. plywood sheet for the floor; attach 1‑inch galvanized wire mesh to a wooden frame using staples or zip ties. Ensure the mesh openings are no larger than ½ in. to prevent escape.
PVC pipe frame with acrylic panels – Assemble a rectangular skeleton from ½‑inch PVC pipes; connect clear acrylic sheets for walls and a removable top. The transparent material simplifies observation and reduces the need for additional lighting.
Repurposed plastic storage bin – Select a bin measuring at least 30 × 20 in. with a lid; replace one side with a breathable mesh panel. Reinforce corners with metal brackets to prevent sagging under the weight of bedding and accessories.
Modular wooden crates – Build a series of interlocking wooden crates (e.g., 12 × 12 in. each) that can be stacked or arranged side‑by‑side. Use a combination of solid wood and mesh walls to balance privacy and airflow.

Additional considerations for all designs:

Install a solid base layer of chew‑resistant material (e.g., hardboard) beneath bedding to protect the floor.
Incorporate a detachable shelf or platform at a height of 8–10 in. to encourage climbing.
Provide a sealed tunnel or hideout made from PVC or cardboard to satisfy natural burrowing behavior.
Use a hinged top or side panel for quick access during cleaning and health checks.

By following these construction guidelines, a custom enclosure can meet size recommendations, support enrichment, and remain cost‑effective.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Daily Spot Cleaning

Daily spot cleaning is a non‑negotiable element of maintaining a cage that houses a pair of rats. The practice removes fresh waste, prevents odor buildup, and reduces the risk of bacterial growth in the confined environment.

In a limited‑space enclosure, waste accumulates quickly on the floor, feeding area, and water bottle rim. Daily removal of droppings, spilled food, and damp bedding preserves air quality and protects the animals’ respiratory health.

Effective spot cleaning follows a consistent routine:

Remove all visible droppings and food crumbs from the floor and feeding platform.
Replace soiled bedding patches with fresh material, leaving untouched sections intact.
Wipe the water bottle mouth and food dish rims with a damp cloth.
Inspect hideouts and tunnels for moisture or fecal deposits; clean as needed.
Dispose of waste in a sealed container to avoid cross‑contamination.

The size of the enclosure influences the workload. A compact cage concentrates activity zones, making daily attention to those spots critical. Larger cages distribute activity, yet high‑traffic areas—such as the feeding corner and central floor—still require daily scrutiny to maintain optimal hygiene.

Consistent spot cleaning sustains a healthy microenvironment, supports the well‑being of the rats, and complements the overall design of an appropriate living space for two rodents.

Weekly Deep Cleaning

Weekly deep cleaning of a dual‑rat enclosure directly supports the space requirements that promote healthy behavior and growth. Maintaining a clean environment prevents odor buildup, reduces the risk of respiratory issues, and preserves the structural integrity of the cage material.

A systematic cleaning routine should include:

Removal of all items (bedding, toys, food dishes) and placement in a designated sanitation area.
Disassembly of cage components to expose hidden corners and joints.
Scrubbing of interior surfaces with a mild, ammonia‑free detergent, followed by a thorough rinse with warm water.
Application of a diluted, pet‑safe disinfectant to all surfaces; allow the recommended contact time before rinsing again.
Inspection of structural elements for wear, cracks, or loose fittings; replace or repair as needed.
Reassembly with fresh, absorbent bedding and sanitized accessories, ensuring that the floor space meets the recommended minimum of 0.5 sq ft per rat.

Conducting this procedure on a weekly basis sustains optimal living conditions, minimizes pathogen proliferation, and extends the functional lifespan of the enclosure.

Odor Control

Effective odor management is a prerequisite for the health and comfort of a pair of laboratory or pet rats. The amount of air exchanged relative to the cage interior directly influences the concentration of volatile compounds produced by urine, feces, and bedding. A cage that provides sufficient volume per animal reduces the buildup of these compounds, allowing natural ventilation to dilute and remove odors.

Key factors that determine odor control include:

Ventilation rate – aim for at least 15 air changes per hour; install mesh panels or perforated walls to facilitate passive airflow.
Bedding selection – use highly absorbent materials such as paper-based or wood shavings with low dust; replace bedding at least twice weekly.
Absorbent inserts – place a layer of granulated charcoal or zeolite beneath the bedding to capture ammonia and other gases.
Cleaning schedule – remove soiled bedding and spot‑clean urine stains daily; perform a full cage change weekly.
Temperature and humidity – maintain ambient temperature between 20‑24 °C and relative humidity below 60 % to inhibit bacterial proliferation that accelerates odor formation.

Choosing a cage that supplies roughly 1,000 cm³ of floor space per rat, combined with the ventilation and maintenance practices listed above, creates an environment where odor levels remain low without compromising the animals’ enrichment needs.