How can you make a two‑story hammock for a rat?

Question

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How can you make a two‑story hammock for a rat? - briefly
Build a stable base and mount two parallel anchor points about 5‑7 cm apart, then stretch a small piece of breathable fabric between them to create the lower hammock. Add a second, higher anchor set and a second fabric layer, securing it with the same method to form an upper level that the rat can climb to.

How can you make a two‑story hammock for a rat? - in detail
To build a functional, two‑level hanging lounge for a laboratory rat, follow these stages.
Materials

Two lengths of sturdy, lightweight fabric (e.g., nylon or canvas), each 30 cm × 30 cm.
Four thin wooden dowels, 15 cm long, 0.5 cm diameter.
Two short metal brackets with screw holes.
Small eye bolts (3 mm) and matching nuts.
Fine nylon cord, 1 mm thickness, 1 m total length.
Small non‑toxic adhesive (e.g., silicone sealant).
Drill with 2 mm bit, screwdriver, scissors.

Construction steps

Base platform

Fold one fabric piece in half, stitch or glue the edges to form a square pouch.
Insert two dowels parallel to each other, spaced 20 cm apart, and secure with adhesive.
Attach eye bolts to each dowel end, leaving a 5 mm gap for the cord.

Upper platform

Repeat the pouch creation with the second fabric piece.
Insert the remaining two dowels similarly, but position them 10 cm above the base platform when suspended.
Install eye bolts on these dowels as well.

Connecting the levels

Thread the nylon cord through the lower eye bolts, forming a rectangular loop.
Tie a secure knot (double fisherman’s knot) at each corner.
Thread the same cord through the upper eye bolts, creating a second rectangular loop directly above the first.
Adjust cord length so the upper platform hangs 10 cm above the lower one, providing enough clearance for the rat to climb.

Mounting

Secure the metal brackets to a stable overhead structure (e.g., cage top or sturdy frame) using screws.
Hang the assembled hammock by attaching the cord loops to the brackets with small carabiners or additional eye bolts.
Verify that the entire assembly can support at least 100 g without sagging.

Finishing touches

Place a thin layer of shredded paper or nesting material on each platform.
Ensure no loose threads or sharp edges remain.
Test stability by gently applying pressure to each level before introducing the animal.

Maintenance

Inspect cords weekly for fraying; replace as needed.
Wash fabric platforms with mild soap and rinse thoroughly every two weeks.
Re‑secure brackets after any cage relocation.

The resulting two‑tier hanging system offers a compact, safe climbing and resting area suitable for a small rodent, encouraging natural exploratory behavior while occupying minimal cage space.