How to make a wooden house for a rat? - briefly
Cut a compact wooden box with smooth edges, secure the panels with non‑toxic glue or small nails, and attach a removable roof for easy cleaning; dimensions of 15 cm × 15 cm × 20 cm suit most pet rats. Include a layer of soft bedding, a chewable tunnel, and a small opening for ventilation and entry.
How to make a wooden house for a rat? - in detail
A wooden shelter for a small rodent must combine safety, ventilation, and ease of cleaning.
Begin with material selection. Choose untreated, non‑toxic softwood such as pine or spruce. Avoid pressure‑treated timber that contains chemicals harmful to the animal. Sand all surfaces to remove splinters and seal with a food‑grade, water‑based finish; let cure completely before assembly.
Next, determine dimensions. A minimum interior space of 15 cm × 15 cm × 15 cm provides enough room for movement and nesting. Allow a slightly larger exterior to accommodate wall thickness and a removable lid.
Proceed to construction steps:
- Cut four vertical posts to the desired height; cut two horizontal beams for the front and back, and two for the sides.
- Assemble a rectangular frame using wood glue and stainless‑steel screws; reinforce corners with small brackets.
- Attach a floor panel of 1 cm thickness; drill several 4 mm holes for drainage, spacing them evenly.
- Construct a roof panel that overhangs the walls by at least 2 cm to prevent rain runoff. Secure with hinges for easy access.
- Install a ventilation slot on each side wall, measuring 2 cm × 5 cm; cover openings with fine mesh to block escape.
- Add a removable interior platform made of the same wood, positioned 5 cm above the floor to create a dry area.
- Fit a small entrance tunnel of 2 cm diameter, leading to a snug opening no larger than 2.5 cm to discourage predators.
Final checks: verify that all joints are tight, no protruding nails remain, and the interior is free of dust. Place bedding material such as shredded paper or wood shavings, and provide a water bottle and food dish that fit within the enclosure without touching the walls.
Regular maintenance includes weekly cleaning of the floor, inspection of the mesh for wear, and re‑application of the finish every six months to preserve wood integrity.
«A well‑crafted wooden enclosure supports the health and activity of a pet rodent».