How much bedding should you put in a rat’s litter box? - briefly
Provide a layer roughly 2–3 cm (about 1 inch) deep, enough to cover the bottom and let the rats dig without spilling over the edges. This depth maintains absorbency and odor control while allowing natural burrowing behavior.
How much bedding should you put in a rat’s litter box? - in detail
The substrate should cover the bottom of the enclosure uniformly, reaching a depth of 1.5–2 inches (approximately 4–5 cm). This thickness allows the animals to dig and nest while preventing waste from contacting the cage floor.
- Material choice affects the required quantity. Absorbent, dust‑free options such as shredded paper, aspen shavings, or hemp bedding need the full 2‑inch depth to function effectively. Clay‑based or wood‑chip litters, which compress more quickly, may require a slightly greater volume to maintain the same depth after several weeks.
- Cage size determines total volume. Measure the internal floor area (length × width) and multiply by the desired depth (in inches) to calculate cubic inches, then convert to liters if preferred. For a standard 20 × 20 × 12 in (50 × 50 × 30 cm) cage, the calculation is: 20 in × 20 in × 2 in = 800 in³, equivalent to roughly 13 L of bedding.
- Layering can improve odor control. Place a thin (½‑inch) layer of an odor‑absorbing material such as activated charcoal or a paper towel underneath the main substrate. This does not change the overall depth but extends the interval between full cleanings.
Routine maintenance is essential. Replace the entire substrate every 2–4 weeks, or sooner if it becomes damp or heavily soiled. Spot‑clean clumped waste daily to preserve the integrity of the remaining bedding and to keep the depth consistent.
In summary, aim for a uniform 1.5–2‑inch layer of a suitable, low‑dust material, calculate volume based on cage dimensions, and refresh the material regularly to maintain hygiene and comfort for the rodents.