What to do if a rat is in a cage?

Question

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What to do if a rat is in a cage? - briefly
Secure the cage, gently coax the rat into a calm, contained space, and check for injury; if any health concerns appear, contact a veterinarian promptly.

What to do if a rat is in a cage? - in detail
If a rodent becomes confined within a cage, immediate and systematic action is required to ensure its safety and prevent damage to the enclosure.
First, assess the situation. Determine whether the animal is trapped in a corner, tangled in bedding, or stuck behind a door latch. Observe the rat’s behavior for signs of stress such as frantic movement, vocalizations, or attempts to escape.
Next, secure the environment. Close the cage door to prevent the animal from fleeing into the room. Wear thick gloves to protect against bites and scratches. If the rat is in a standard wire cage, keep the cage upright to maintain stability.
Proceed with removal using one of the following methods:

Hand capture

Approach slowly, keeping your hand flat and palm facing the rat.
Allow the animal to climb onto your hand voluntarily; rats often seek a stable surface.
Gently lift and place the rat into a clean, escape‑proof transport container.

Tool‑assisted extraction

Use a small, smooth plastic spoon or a soft brush to coax the rat toward an opening.
Guide the animal onto a piece of cardboard, then slide the cardboard under the rat and lift it out.

Trap release

If the rat is inside a trap placed inside the cage, open the trap carefully while wearing gloves.
Encourage the rat to exit by tapping the side of the trap or using a short straw to direct it toward the opening.

After removal, inspect the cage for damage. Check door hinges, latch mechanisms, and wire spacing for any defects that may have allowed the incident. Repair or replace compromised parts before returning the rat to its habitat.
Finally, monitor the animal for injuries. Examine paws, tail, and fur for cuts or abrasions. If any wounds are present, clean with a mild antiseptic solution and consult a veterinarian promptly.
By following these steps—assessment, containment, safe extraction, cage inspection, and health check—you can resolve the incident efficiently and minimize risk to both the rat and the caretaker.