How to make a cage for pet rats? - briefly
Build a wire cage with a solid, chew‑proof floor, line it with absorbent bedding, add tunnels, hideouts, and a latch that rodents cannot open. Include a water bottle and a shallow dish of fresh food on the upper level.
How to make a cage for pet rats? - in detail
Creating a functional enclosure for small rodents requires careful planning of size, materials, ventilation, and enrichment.
Begin with dimensions. A single adult rat needs at least 2 sq ft of floor space; a pair should have 4 sq ft. Height should allow climbing, with a minimum of 12 in. A rectangular base of 24 × 36 in. meets these criteria for two animals.
Select a frame. Use untreated pine or PVC pipe. Cut four vertical supports to the desired height, then attach two horizontal rails at the top and bottom to form a sturdy rectangle. Secure joints with wood glue and screws or PVC cement.
Cover the frame with a wire mesh. Choose 1/4‑inch stainless‑steel hardware cloth to prevent escape and allow airflow. Staple or zip‑tie the mesh to the frame, ensuring no gaps larger than 1 mm. Add a hinged door on one side, reinforced with a latch that rats cannot unlatch.
Prepare the floor. A solid base of ¼‑inch plywood covered with a removable tray simplifies cleaning. Line the tray with paper bedding, avoiding cedar or pine shavings that emit harmful oils.
Install accessories. Provide a solid climbing structure such as a wooden branch or plastic tube, anchored to the mesh. Add a nest box made from a small plastic container with a removable lid, placed in a quiet corner. Include a water bottle with a metal sipper and a ceramic food dish.
Maintain hygiene. Clean the enclosure weekly: replace bedding, wash the tray with mild soap, and disinfect mesh with a dilute vinegar solution. Perform a deeper cleaning monthly, inspecting for rust or worn mesh.
Safety checks. Verify that all edges are smooth, no loose wires exist, and the latch functions reliably. Replace any damaged components immediately.
By following these steps, you create a secure, spacious, and stimulating habitat that supports the health and well‑being of pet rats.