How do you make a cage for a rat yourself at home?

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How do you make a cage for a rat yourself at home? - briefly
Build a sturdy enclosure from wire mesh or a plastic storage box, cutting ventilation holes, securing a lockable lid, and fitting a solid bottom with bedding, a water bottle, and chew toys. Ensure all edges are smoothed and the cage is large enough for the rat to explore and exercise safely.

How do you make a cage for a rat yourself at home? - in detail
Building a functional rat enclosure at home requires careful selection of materials, precise measurements, and secure assembly. Follow these steps to create a safe, durable habitat.

Gather materials

Solid‑core plywood or melamine board, ¾‑inch thickness, for the floor and walls.
Wire mesh with ½‑inch openings and a ¼‑inch gauge for ventilation panels.
Stainless‑steel or coated nails and screws, at least 1‑inch long.
Corner brackets, L‑shaped, for reinforcing joints.
Non‑toxic silicone sealant for sealing gaps.
Hinged acrylic or plexiglass panel for a front door, if desired.

Determine dimensions

Minimum floor space: 24 in × 18 in per rat; add 12 in × 12 in for each additional animal.
Height: 12 in minimum, 15 in preferred for climbing.
Mark dimensions on the board, cut with a fine‑tooth saw, sand edges smooth.

Construct the base

Cut a rectangular base to the measured size.
Drill four ¼‑inch holes in each corner for ventilation; cover with mesh secured by staples.

Assemble side walls

Cut four panels matching the base’s perimeter and height.
Attach each panel to the base using corner brackets and screws, ensuring a right‑angle fit.
Reinforce each joint with an additional bracket on the interior.

Install ventilation

Cut a 6‑inch‑wide strip on the upper half of each side wall.
Secure wire mesh over the opening with staples or small nails, leaving no gaps.

Create a secure door

Cut an opening on one side, 8 in × 6 in.
Attach a hinged acrylic panel with stainless‑steel hinges; add a latch that cannot be opened by a rat.
Apply silicone sealant around the frame to prevent escape.

Add interior accessories

Place a chew‑proof wooden platform, a water bottle with a metal spout, and a food dish.
Provide nesting material in a corner, secured with a small wire cage to prevent scattering.

Finalize safety checks

Inspect all seams for gaps larger than ¼ inch.
Test door latch repeatedly to confirm it remains closed under pressure.
Verify that all hardware is rust‑free and securely fastened.

The completed structure offers adequate space, ventilation, and protection from predators. Regular cleaning involves removing the door panel, washing the floor with mild soap, and rinsing thoroughly. Replace worn mesh or damaged wood promptly to maintain a healthy environment.