What should you line the bottom of a rat cage with? - briefly
Use a clean, absorbent, non‑toxic substrate such as paper‑based bedding or aspen shavings. Avoid aromatic woods like cedar or pine, which can irritate respiratory systems.
What should you line the bottom of a rat cage with? - in detail
A suitable substrate for the floor of a rat enclosure must be absorbent, low‑dust, non‑toxic, and safe for chewing. The most widely recommended materials include:
-
Paper‑based bedding (e.g., recycled newspaper, paper pellets, or plain white paper).
Absorbs moisture efficiently, produces minimal dust, and is safe if gnawed. -
Aspen shavings.
Hard‑wood product free of aromatic oils, low in dust, and provides a natural texture. -
Corncob bedding.
Highly absorbent, moderate dust level, and inexpensive; however, some rats may develop allergies. -
Hemp or flax fibers.
Excellent moisture wicking, low dust, and biodegradable; cost is higher than paper.
Materials to avoid:
- Pine or spruce shavings – contain phenolic compounds that can irritate the respiratory system.
- Cedar shavings – release volatile oils harmful to rodent lungs.
- Silica‑based cat litter – abrasive and can cause gastrointestinal blockage if ingested.
Layering technique
- Place a thin sheet of plain newspaper or a reusable liner directly on the cage base.
- Add a 1–2 inch (2.5–5 cm) depth of the chosen bedding on top of the liner.
- Ensure the bedding remains dry; replace or spot‑clean when soiled to prevent ammonia buildup.
Maintenance considerations
- Change the entire substrate every 1–2 weeks, depending on humidity and waste volume.
- Spot‑clean daily: remove droppings, wet spots, and soiled areas.
- Monitor for excessive dust; if observed, switch to a lower‑dust alternative such as paper pellets.
- Verify that the bedding does not contain added fragrances or chemicals.
Alternative floor designs
- Mesh floor with a detachable tray – allows easy removal of waste and reduces bedding usage; requires a thin layer of bedding for comfort.
- Solid plastic base with a reusable pad – suitable for breeding colonies; the pad can be washed and reused, minimizing waste.
Selecting the appropriate material and maintaining a clean, dry environment promotes respiratory health, reduces the risk of dermatitis, and encourages natural digging behavior.