How to combine two cages for rats? - briefly
Securely join the cages by aligning their openings, drilling matching holes, and fastening them with stainless‑steel brackets or zip ties to create a continuous barrier and maintain proper ventilation. Verify that the merged enclosure remains stable, offers adequate space per animal, and includes safe access points for cleaning.
How to combine two cages for rats? - in detail
When linking two rodent habitats, begin with a thorough assessment of the existing cages. Verify that both units are of the same material, size, and ventilation design; mismatched structures can create gaps that compromise safety and airflow.
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Select a connector – Choose a rigid, non‑toxic bridging piece such as a stainless‑steel or acrylic panel. The connector must be at least as tall as the cage walls to prevent the animals from escaping underneath.
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Prepare the attachment points – Remove any accessories that could obstruct the joining area (bedding, toys, food dishes). Clean the edges with a mild disinfectant, rinse, and dry completely.
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Drill matching holes – Using a drill bit sized for the chosen fasteners, create identical holes on the adjoining sides of both cages. Space the holes evenly (e.g., every 2–3 inches) to distribute load evenly.
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Secure the panels – Align the cages so the drilled holes line up. Insert stainless‑steel screws or bolts with washers, tightening them until the connection is firm but not so tight that the cage material cracks.
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Seal the seams – Apply a pet‑safe silicone sealant along the interior and exterior seams of the joint. Smooth the sealant with a gloved finger or a disposable tool, then allow it to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 24 hours).
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Test the structure – Gently push against the combined enclosure from multiple angles to confirm stability. Inspect for any loose fittings or gaps where a rat could squeeze through.
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Re‑introduce the animals – Return the rats to the enlarged space only after confirming that the combined cage is secure and that all escape routes are eliminated. Monitor behavior for the first several hours to ensure the new layout does not cause stress.
Additional considerations:
- Ventilation – Ensure that airflow is not impeded by the connector; add extra vents if necessary.
- Cleaning access – Design the joint so that both cages can still be separated for deep cleaning without dismantling the entire structure.
- Future expansion – If further enlargement is anticipated, use modular connectors that can be added without replacing existing hardware.
Following these steps creates a single, larger habitat that maintains the health, safety, and comfort standards required for laboratory or pet rats.