What should be lined in a rat cage? - briefly
Use a non‑aromatic, absorbent bedding such as shredded paper, aspen shavings, or commercially prepared cellulose pellets; avoid cedar or pine because their oils can harm respiratory health. Ensure the material is dust‑free and changed regularly to maintain hygiene.
What should be lined in a rat cage? - in detail
Lining a rat enclosure is essential for health, hygiene, and comfort. The floor material must absorb moisture, control odor, resist chewing, and allow easy cleaning.
Absorbent bedding options include:
- Aspen wood shavings: low aromatic oils, moderate dust, good absorbency.
- Paper‑based products (e.g., shredded paper, pellets): minimal dust, high absorbency, biodegradable.
- Hemp bedding: natural fibers, low dust, excellent odor control.
- Corncob granules: coarse texture, high absorbency, low cost.
Each of these should be changed completely every one to two weeks, with spot cleaning performed daily to remove wet or soiled sections.
For a barrier against gnawing, consider a removable tray lined with:
- Heavy‑duty plastic sheet: waterproof, chew‑resistant, easy to sanitize.
- Stainless‑steel pan: non‑porous, durable, compatible with autoclave sterilization.
If a wire mesh floor is used, place a thin layer of non‑abrasive liner (e.g., parchment paper) beneath the bedding to prevent foot injuries and reduce debris accumulation.
Key considerations when selecting a liner:
- Dust level: low‑dust materials minimize respiratory irritation.
- Chemical safety: avoid cedar, pine, or scented products that contain volatile oils.
- Moisture management: high‑absorbency substrates reduce the need for frequent full‑cage changes.
- Chew resistance: metal or thick plastic liners protect the cage structure and prevent ingestion of loose particles.
Sanitation protocol:
- Remove all bedding and accessories.
- Wash the cage with mild detergent, rinse thoroughly.
- Disinfect with a diluted bleach solution (1 % sodium hypochlorite) or an approved laboratory disinfectant; allow contact time as specified.
- Rinse and dry completely before adding fresh liner and bedding.
Enrichment items such as tunnels, hideouts, and chew blocks should be placed on top of the bedding, not beneath it, to maintain the integrity of the liner and ensure easy removal for cleaning.
In summary, a combination of low‑dust, highly absorbent bedding, a chew‑proof removable tray, and a strict cleaning schedule provides optimal conditions for laboratory or pet rats.