How do you make a carrier for rats? - briefly
Use a sturdy, ventilated container such as a small plastic or metal cage with a secure latch, line the base with soft bedding, and add a water bottle and a hideout. Ensure the dimensions permit the rat to turn around and that the carrier meets any transport regulations.
How do you make a carrier for rats? - in detail
A functional rat carrier can be assembled from readily available components, ensuring durability, ventilation, and secure containment during transport.
Materials required
- Rigid plastic or acrylic box (approximately 12 × 8 × 8 in) with a removable lid
- Fine‑mesh screen or metal wire (1/4‑inch openings) for ventilation slots
- Non‑toxic silicone sealant or hot‑glue gun
- Small hinges and latch mechanism for the lid
- Soft bedding material (paper strips or aspen shavings)
- Optional: removable tray for waste and a clip‑on water bottle
Construction steps
- Prepare the enclosure – Clean the box thoroughly; dry completely.
- Create ventilation – Cut two opposite sides to fit the mesh, leaving a 2‑inch border. Attach the screen with silicone sealant, ensuring no gaps.
- Install hinges and latch – Align the lid with the box, secure hinges on the rear edge, and attach a latch on the front side for quick opening.
- Add interior padding – Line the bottom with a thin layer of bedding; place a removable tray if desired.
- Fit the water bottle – Drill a small hole near the top, insert a clip‑on bottle, seal around the entry point with silicone.
- Test for safety – Verify that the lid closes firmly, the mesh remains taut, and no sharp edges are exposed.
Final considerations