What Kind of Cage Do Pet Rats Need?

Although they are touted as being affectionate and sociable animals that can be carried around on your shoulder, pet rats generally live in cages. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of many factors when choosing a cage for your pet rat.

  1. Wire Cages

    • Wire cages offer the most options, many consisting of second and third levels. Powder-coated wire is a superior choice to galvanized wire, which can corrode over time after exposure to urine. Solid floors and solid shelves are preferable, as rats can get their feet stuck in wire flooring and be seriously injured.

    Aquariums

    • Aquariums are not as drafty as wire cages but they do have less air circulation, which can make the tanks too warm and humid. Because aquariums do not have multiple levels for rats to get up and away from their litter, they must be cleaned more often. The lack of levels also means less exercise for your rat, unless your rat enjoys using an exercise wheel.

    Size

    • In general, house no more than two rats per 15 to 20 gallon tank or a wire cage of roughly the same size, although this can vary with the number of levels and floor space in a wire cage.

    Accessories

    • Cages should have plenty of room for a feeding dish, a sleeping box, play pieces and an exercise wheel.

    Ease Of Cleaning

    • Rat cages should be sterilized on a regular basis, so be sure to look at a cage closely before purchase to determine whether it will be easy to disinfect and rinse.

    Wood Cage Warning

    • Never use a cage made of wood for your rat, as urine will soak into the wood and cause ammonia to build up that could make your rat sick. Additionally, rats may chew the wood and the splinters could cause injury.