How to make a cardboard house for rats? - briefly
Cut a sturdy cardboard box into four panels, join them with non‑toxic glue or tape to create a tunnel‑shaped enclosure, add a small opening for entry, and line the interior with soft bedding. Apply a waterproof coating to the exterior and position the house in a quiet corner, cleaning it regularly.
How to make a cardboard house for rats? - in detail
A functional cardboard shelter for laboratory or pet rats can be assembled with readily available supplies and a few precise steps.
Select sturdy, corrugated cardboard without glossy coating. Cut four panels: two side walls, a front, and a back. Dimensions of 12 cm × 15 cm for the sides and 12 cm × 20 cm for the front and back provide ample space for an adult rat. Add a floor panel of 12 cm × 20 cm; reinforce edges with packing tape to prevent tearing.
Create a roof by cutting a 12 cm × 20 cm piece and folding a 2‑cm flap along each long side. Attach the flap to the side walls with tape, forming a hinged lid that can be opened for cleaning.
Drill or punch two 1‑cm holes near the top of the front wall for ventilation. Insert short PVC tubes (5 cm long, 1 cm diameter) to maintain airflow while preventing escape.
Secure the assembled box with an additional strip of tape around the perimeter. Apply a thin layer of non‑toxic, water‑based paint or a clear sealant to the interior if the cardboard will be exposed to moisture.
Place the shelter on a solid base, such as a piece of acrylic or a thick wooden board, to protect the cardboard from droppings and humidity. Provide bedding material (paper strips or aspen shavings) inside, and add a small chewable item (e.g., untreated wood block) to satisfy gnawing behavior.
Maintenance checklist:
- Remove soiled bedding weekly; replace with fresh material.
- Inspect seams for wear; reinforce with tape as needed.
- Clean interior with mild soap solution; dry thoroughly before re‑bedding.
- Rotate the shelter every 2–3 months to prevent mold buildup.
Following these guidelines yields a durable, safe, and comfortable cardboard enclosure suitable for rat habitation.