How should a rat’s cage be disinfected? - briefly
Remove the rat, discard all bedding, scrub the cage with hot, detergent‑filled water, rinse, then soak all surfaces in a 10 % bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) for 10 minutes, rinse again and let dry completely before re‑introducing the animal.
How should a rat’s cage be disinfected? - in detail
A thorough sanitation routine begins with emptying the enclosure. Remove all bedding, food, water bottles, toys, and any removable parts. Place these items in a separate container for cleaning or disposal.
Next, scrub the interior surfaces with warm water and a non‑abrasive sponge. Use a mild detergent to eliminate organic residue. Rinse thoroughly until no soap suds remain; residual detergent can interfere with the disinfectant.
Apply a proven disinfectant. Acceptable options include:
- Diluted chlorine bleach (5 % sodium hypochlorite) at a 1 % solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water).
- Quaternary ammonium compounds formulated for animal facilities, used at the manufacturer’s recommended concentration.
- Enzymatic cleaners with a registered disinfectant claim, applied according to label instructions.
Ensure the solution contacts every surface—walls, floor, corners, and any equipment that cannot be removed. Maintain the contact time specified on the product label, typically 5–10 minutes for bleach and 2–5 minutes for quaternary compounds.
After the required exposure, rinse the cage with clean water to remove chemical residues. Use a hose or faucet with sufficient flow to flush all crevices. Verify that no disinfectant odor remains.
Dry the enclosure completely before reassembly. Air‑dry for at least 30 minutes or use a clean, lint‑free cloth to accelerate the process. Moisture encourages bacterial growth and can damage plastic components.
Reinstall cleaned accessories, replace bedding with fresh material, and refill water bottles and feeders. Conduct the full cleaning cycle at least once per week for breeding colonies, and after any illness outbreak or mortality event.
Personal protective equipment—gloves, goggles, and a lab coat—must be worn throughout the procedure. Work in a well‑ventilated area to prevent inhalation of fumes. Dispose of contaminated waste according to local regulations.