Where do pet rats live? - briefly
Pet rats are kept in secure indoor cages that include bedding, hiding spots, and enrichment items. The enclosure should be spacious enough for movement and cleaned regularly to maintain health.
Where do pet rats live? - in detail
Pet rats thrive in enclosed habitats that mimic their natural burrowing environment while providing safety and hygiene. A suitable enclosure typically consists of a wire or solid-bottom cage measuring at least 24 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches high for a single adult; larger spaces are required for groups to prevent stress and aggression. The interior should contain a thick layer of absorbent bedding—such as paper pulp, aspen shavings, or coconut fiber—approximately two to three inches deep to allow digging and nesting.
Ventilation is essential; wire cages offer airflow but must be covered with a secure mesh to prevent escapes, whereas solid-bottom enclosures need drilled ventilation holes and a mesh lid. Temperature should remain within 65–75 °F (18–24 °C) with relative humidity between 40% and 60% to avoid respiratory issues. Direct sunlight and drafts are detrimental, so the cage should be placed on a stable surface away from windows, heating vents, and loud appliances.
Enrichment items improve welfare and include:
- Nesting material (cotton squares, shredded tissue) for building nests.
- Climbing structures (plastic tunnels, wooden branches) to encourage exercise.
- Chewable objects (untreated wood blocks, cardboard) to maintain dental health.
- Hideaways (small huts or PVC tubes) for privacy.
Cleaning protocols dictate weekly removal of soiled bedding, thorough washing of cage components with mild, unscented detergent, and replacement of fresh substrate. Daily spot cleaning removes waste and food remnants to control odor and bacterial growth.
Supplementary considerations involve positioning the habitat in a low-traffic area to reduce stress, ensuring the cage is secure against predators (cats, dogs, birds of prey), and providing a balanced diet in a separate feeder to keep food from contaminating the bedding. By adhering to these specifications, owners create a stable, comfortable setting that supports the physical and psychological health of their rats.