CAGES

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Ensure that each rat gets at least 2.5 cubic feet of space.

Anything less may result in territorial aggression.

Tanks and aquariums are not suitable for rats and should not be used!

Rats have sensitive respiratory systems and due to the ammonia in their urine, they need proper ventilation that tanks do not provide.

Please remember that your rats will spend the

majority of their lives in a cage. Choose wisely!

Things to consider

Hamster cages should not be used!

These cages often have tubes that look fun for rats, but growing rats can get stuck in the tubes! Hamster cages also do not provide enough room for rats.

1. Number of Rats

The number of rats you have will determine the cage - whereas the size of the cage will determine the number of rats that can live in it. How many rats do you have? How many rats do you plan on having? Consider your future wishes and plan accordingly.

2. Size

Each rat needs 2.5 cubic feet of space - but this depends on how well you utilize the space in the cage. Empty air space that cannot be accessed by your rats does not count. Fill these spaces with hammocks and shelves. Also consider the area in your home that the cage will be located. What is the maximum size cage you can use?

3. Accessibility

Examine the cage to determine the accessibility. Where are the doors located? How big are they? Can you easily access your rats? Can you hang hammocks and change their food and water with ease? How will you clean the cage? Cages that have small doors or hinder your ability to clean the cage will cause you more stress in the long run.

4. Shelves

Shelves allow your rats to fully utilize the entire cage (hammocks and toys help of course!). Avoid shelves made with grids or mesh as this can lead to bumble foot and other injuries. Cover them with cardboard, tiles, or fleece. All rat cages should have shelves unless you have an injured or elderly rat.

5. Cleaning

Some people prefer lightweight cages that aren't bulky so that they may place them into their showers for easy cleaning. If this is important to you, check the dimensions and weight of the cages that you're looking at. Of course, the smaller the cage, the less rats will be able to inhabit it.

IMPORTANT FEATURES

1. Bar Spacing Should Be 1/2 inches or less

Rats can squeeze through tight spaces, so 1/2 inches between bars is a safe amount. Some adult males can be housed in cages with 1 inch bar spacing.

2. Levels - Wire Levels Must Be Covered

Make the most of empty space by choosing cages with multiple levels. Rats like to climb and are very active. Cover any shelves made with mesh or wire as this can cause bumblefoot and other injuries.

3. Rats May Escape From Plastic Cages

Rats love to chew...and they're great at it! Consider what the cage is made out of. Cages with plastic bases are easy to escape from. For rats, it's best to purchase a cage that is metal.

4. Shelves Are Important

Rats cannot fly and therefore do not use empty air space. Shelves allow your rats to fully utilize the entire cage (hammocks and toys help of course!). Avoid shelves made with grids or mesh as this can lead to bumble foot and other injuries. Cover them with cardboard, tiles, or fleece.

5. Large Cages Should Have Wheels

Large cages can be difficult to manuever during cleanings. If you choose a large cage, it's best that it has wheels.