How to Make Your Own Rat Habitat

Pet rats are not for everyone, but they can be surprisingly fun and easy to get along with. Once you have made the decision to have a pet rat, it is time to begin setting up their home. Rat habitats are similar to those of mice, ferrets, guinea pigs and rabbits, so even though they are an uncommon pet, it is not hard to find the materials and tools you need to provide them a happy home environment.

Things You'll Need

  • Cage
  • Plastic litter tray
  • Wood shavings or shredded newspaper
  • Cardboard or plastic nest box or hammock
  • Paper towels or straw
  • Gravity-feed water bottle
  • Food dish
  • Play items
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose the largest size cage you can accommodate in your space. Make sure you have at least two cubic feet per rat if you have multiple pets. Choose a cage that's bars are close enough together that your pet will not be able to escape.

    • 2

      Place a small litter tray at the bottom of the cage. Include wood shavings or shredded newspaper so the rat can use it for its waste needs. Make sure to clean it every few days to prevent bad smells and hygiene problems within the cage.

    • 3

      Put a nest box or hammock in the cage for the rat to sleep in. Include materials such as shredded newspaper, paper towels or straw for the rat to sleep on.

    • 4

      Add a gravity-feed water bottle to the cage and make sure it is filled regularly with clean and fresh water. Place a small food dish in the cage to keep the rat's food in.

    • 5

      Decorate the cage with fun items for the rat to play with. Include tunnels, spinning wheels, tubes, ropes, swings or ladders. Your rat will appreciate the extra effort you have taken to make its habitat fun.