What should you buy for a rat cage? - briefly
Buy a sturdy, solid‑bottom cage with a secure wire lid, a chew‑proof water bottle, a food dish, nesting substrate, tunnels or tubes, and a small hideout for privacy.
What should you buy for a rat cage? - in detail
A well‑equipped rat enclosure requires durable housing, appropriate substrate, reliable feeding accessories, enrichment, and maintenance tools.
Choose a cage made of stainless steel or powder‑coated metal with a secure latch and a minimum floor space of 2 sq ft per rat; wire spacing should be ½ inch or less to prevent escapes. A solid‑bottom design allows the use of safe bedding such as paper‑based or aspen shavings, which absorb moisture and limit odor. Avoid cedar, pine, or scented litters that can irritate respiratory passages.
Feeding equipment includes a heavy‑base water bottle with a stainless‑steel sipper tube, a stainless‑steel or heavy‑plastic food dish, and a small feeder for seed mixes. Provide a high‑quality rodent pellet diet supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional protein treats; store dry food in airtight containers to preserve freshness.
Enrichment items support natural behaviors. Provide at least one hideaway constructed from untreated wood or plastic, a set of chew blocks or tunnels to wear down continuously growing incisors, and climbing structures such as ladders, ropes, or hammocks. Rotate toys regularly to maintain interest.
Maintenance supplies consist of a dust‑free cleaning spray, a dedicated scrub brush, and disposable gloves. Schedule weekly spot cleaning and a full cage change every two weeks, replacing all bedding and sanitizing surfaces with a rodent‑safe disinfectant.
Essential purchase list
- Stainless‑steel or powder‑coated metal cage (minimum 2 sq ft per rat)
- Paper‑based or aspen bedding
- Heavy‑base water bottle with sipper tube
- Stainless‑steel food dish
- High‑quality pellet diet, fresh produce, protein treats
- Hideaway, chew blocks, tunnels, climbing accessories
- Airtight storage container for dry food
- Cleaning spray, scrub brush, disposable gloves
Each component contributes to a safe, hygienic, and stimulating environment, reducing stress and promoting the health of pet rats.