What items are included in a rat cage? - briefly
A standard rat enclosure includes a solid base, a wire‑mesh lid, a nesting box, a water bottle, a food dish, chew toys, and a hideaway. Additional accessories such as tunnels or an exercise wheel can be added for enrichment.
What items are included in a rat cage? - in detail
A properly equipped rat enclosure requires several essential components to support health, safety, and natural behavior.
The base of the cage should be lined with absorbent bedding such as paper strips, aspen shavings, or kiln‑dried pine. These materials provide insulation, moisture control, and a medium for nesting. Avoid cedar or aromatic woods, which release harmful oils.
A secure water dispenser, typically a stainless‑steel bottle with a sipper tube, delivers clean drinking water while preventing spills. The bottle must be inspected daily for cracks and cleaned weekly with mild detergent.
Food provision includes a sturdy, chew‑resistant bowl or dish for dry pellets and occasional fresh foods. The container should have low sides for easy access and be made of ceramic or heavy‑gauge plastic to prevent tipping.
Hideouts are critical for stress reduction. Provide at least one enclosed shelter—such as a wooden house, PVC tunnel, or fabric igloo—large enough for two rats to turn around. The interior should be lined with soft material like shredded tissue or fleece.
Chewing enrichment consists of safe, non‑toxic items: untreated wood blocks, mineral chews, cardboard tubes, and natural fibers. These satisfy the rodents’ incisor growth and encourage mental stimulation.
Vertical and horizontal enrichment includes climbing ladders, rope bridges, and platforms. Metal or acrylic structures anchored to the cage walls allow rats to explore three‑dimensional space, mirroring their natural arboreal tendencies.
Nesting material, separate from bedding, should be offered in a small, shallow dish. Examples are shredded paper, cotton pads, or untreated tissue. Rats use this to construct nests for resting and breeding.
Cleaning accessories—such as a detachable tray, scoop, and disposable gloves—facilitate regular maintenance. The tray should be removable for daily spot cleaning and deep cleaning weekly with a diluted bleach solution (1 % concentration).
Additional optional items include a sand bath for grooming, a small exercise wheel (solid‑sided, minimum 8‑inch diameter), and a chewable tunnel made of safe plastics. Each accessory must be inspected for wear and replaced promptly to avoid injury.
Collectively, these elements create an environment that meets the physiological and behavioral needs of pet rats, promoting longevity and well‑being.