What should line the bottom of a rat cage? - briefly
Use absorbent, dust‑free bedding such as shredded paper, aspen shavings, or commercially prepared rodent substrate. Avoid cedar, pine, or other aromatic woods that can cause respiratory irritation.
What should line the bottom of a rat cage? - in detail
The floor of a rat enclosure requires a material that absorbs waste, prevents injury, and allows easy cleaning. Absorbent bedding such as paper pulp, aspen shavings, or hemp provides a dry surface, reduces ammonia buildup, and is safe if ingested in small amounts. Paper‑based products are low‑dust, inexpensive, and biodegradable; they can be changed weekly without disturbing the animals. Aspen shavings are naturally low in aromatic oils, minimizing respiratory irritation, and they offer good absorbency. Hemp bedding combines high moisture‑binding capacity with a long lifespan, though it is pricier.
For laboratories or facilities where sterility is crucial, a layer of autoclaved corncob or sterile paper strips may be used. These substrates tolerate frequent autoclaving, maintain a dry environment, and minimize contamination risk. In high‑traffic cages, a thin sheet of reusable polymer mat beneath the bedding can protect the cage base from wear while still allowing bedding to rest on top. The mat should be chemically inert, non‑absorbent, and easy to disinfect.
A typical setup includes three layers:
- Base layer: non‑porous cage bottom, optionally covered with a reusable polymer mat for durability.
- Absorbent layer: 1–2 cm of chosen bedding (paper pulp, aspen, hemp, or corncob) to capture urine and feces.
- Top layer: a thin dust‑free overlay (e.g., shredded paper) to keep bedding dry and reduce particle inhalation.
Regular monitoring of moisture levels, odor, and cage condition determines the replacement schedule, typically every 5–7 days for most bedding types. Ensure that any material introduced is free of toxic chemicals, low in dust, and compatible with the cage’s cleaning protocol.