What should line a rat cage with? - briefly
Use a safe, absorbent material such as paper bedding, shredded paper, or aspen shavings; avoid cedar, pine, or scented products that can harm rodents. Ensure the liner is changed regularly to maintain hygiene.
What should line a rat cage with? - in detail
Choosing an appropriate substrate for a rat enclosure is essential for health, comfort, and hygiene. The material must absorb moisture, control odor, be safe if ingested, and allow easy cleaning.
Absorbent, low‑dust options include:
- Paper‑based bedding (e.g., shredded paper, paper pellets). Highly absorbent, minimal dust, non‑toxic if chewed.
- Aspen shavings. Soft, low‑resin, low‑dust alternative to pine or cedar, which contain harmful oils.
- Coconut fiber (coir). Good moisture retention, biodegradable, low dust; avoid if rats tend to over‑gnaw the fibers.
- Hemp bedding. Excellent absorbency, natural antimicrobial properties, minimal dust.
Unsuitable choices:
- Pine or cedar shavings. Contain aromatic oils that can irritate respiratory tracts and damage kidneys.
- Corncob bedding. High dust, low absorbency, can cause respiratory issues.
- Litter designed for cats (clumping clay). Can cause gastrointestinal blockage if ingested.
Maintenance guidelines:
- Replace the entire substrate weekly, or more frequently if moisture or odor accumulates.
- Spot‑clean daily: remove soiled sections, replace with fresh material.
- Use a liner of heavy‑duty plastic or a reusable tray beneath the bedding to protect the cage base and simplify disposal.
Safety considerations:
- Ensure the bedding is free of chemicals, pesticides, or strong fragrances.
- Verify that the material does not splinter or produce sharp edges that could injure delicate paws.
- Provide a dry nesting area separate from the main substrate if the chosen material retains excessive moisture.
By selecting a low‑dust, absorbent, non‑toxic substrate and adhering to regular cleaning routines, the enclosure remains comfortable, odor‑controlled, and safe for the rodents.