How to treat a rat's cage? - briefly
Clean the enclosure daily, discarding soiled bedding and wiping bars and floor with warm water and mild soap, then rinse and apply a diluted bleach solution to disinfect. Replace bedding weekly and inspect for damage to prevent health issues.
How to treat a rat's cage? - in detail
Proper care of a rodent enclosure begins with regular cleaning. Remove all bedding, food, and water dishes before wiping the interior with a mild, non‑toxic detergent. Rinse thoroughly to eliminate soap residue, then dry the cage completely before adding fresh substrate.
Maintain a weekly schedule:
- Spot‑clean daily – discard soiled bedding, check for droppings, and replace water.
- Deep clean weekly – empty the cage, scrub bars and corners, and disinfect with a rodent‑safe solution such as diluted hydrogen peroxide (1 % concentration).
- Replace bedding bi‑weekly – use absorbent, dust‑free material like paper‑based or aspen shavings; avoid pine or cedar, which release harmful oils.
Ventilation is essential. Ensure airflow by keeping bar spacing appropriate and avoiding blockage of openings. Inspect the cage for rust, sharp edges, or loose fittings before each refill; replace damaged parts immediately.
Enrichment items—tunnels, chew toys, climbing structures—should be sanitized regularly. Soak them in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for 10 minutes, rinse, and dry before re‑introduction.
Monitor humidity and temperature. Ideal conditions for laboratory‑grade rats are 20–26 °C and 30–70 % relative humidity. Use a thermometer and hygrometer to verify stability; adjust heating or ventilation as needed.
Finally, document each cleaning session, noting dates, products used, and any observations of wear or health concerns. This record supports consistent hygiene and early detection of problems.