Would this cage be suitable for my two rats?

Question

http://www.ferret.com/item/ferret-nation-habitat-model-142/

I really like this cage, it seems nice, and roomy. I currently have two rats but I would like to get at least a third, maybe even a fourth.

Do you think that cage would be suitable for 2-4 rats?

It seems nice and sturdy and I like the fact that it has the little storage type area underneath it...what do y'all think?

Answer 1

The only issue with this cage, is bar spacing. You have to be careful when purchasing ferret cages for rats, because female rats & young rats of both gender can often escape from 1 inch spacing.

I prefer 1/2 bar spacing on any cages I purchase. That cage IS big enough for 3-4 rats, certainly.

I have this cage, for my 2 adult male rats (minus the wire mesh wheel. I tossed that away and got a Silent Spinner instead for safety):

http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.js...

Answer 2

Housing

Rats can be housed in a wire cage with a plastic base, a plastic rat home or a large vivarium with a well-ventilated cover. Wooden cages should not be used as rats will chew their way out! The important thing to remember is that a rat home can never be too big, as they love to explore and exercise. Multi-level cages are a good idea as they add interest for the rat. They love to hide and climb, so sisal rope, a large rat wheel and a place for them to rest above the ground are ideal. They also need a large run where they can play and exercise.

Rats are best kept indoors and careful thought should be given to where your rat’s home is situated. The temperature in the room should be constant, away from direct sunlight and draughts, and out of the reach of any other pets. A rat’s hearing is extremely sensitive so he should be situated away from loud noises.



  

  Cage Hygiene

Cages should be cleaned out on a regular basis. This is especially important in warmer weather in order to prevent flies being attracted to the cage, as this may result in an infestation of maggots. Did you know that rats can catch nasty diseases from dirty cages? So make sure you pay lots of attention to keeping your rat’s cage clean and hygienic. Here are some tips to help you:

Every day

Remove any soiled bedding from the area where your rat toilets and replace with clean bedding. Remove all stored food

Once a week

Remove all bedding. Thoroughly sweep the cage. Rinse with warm water and mild disinfectant and wait until dry. Spray inside of cage with a safe cleaning product and wait until dry. Replace with clean bedding (check for signs of mould etc. on bedding and discard if necessary)

  

  Bedding Material

Keeping your rat warm and cosy at night is very important. You also need bedding that is absorbent which makes cleaning easier for you. Untreated, un-threshed straw should not be used as it can scratch your pet. It is also recommended that you provide bedding that is dust extracted, as this reduces irritation to the eyes, nose and respiratory system.

To find out more about suitable bedding products, click here.



  

  Exercise

It is extremely important that your rat has the opportunity to exercise every day.

Exercise is essential to:

maintain high levels of fitness

maintain mental well-being

increase cardiovascular fitness

control weight levels

maintain joint mobility

maintain muscle tone

Anyway, your rat will love running around and playing with his toys!

You need to provide a large, secure run for daily exercise. This can be free-standing or attached to the cage. An idea is to use a large cardboard box and put bedding on the bottom. Put in some toilet roll tubes and, as rats also love climbing, you can hang up a piece of sisal rope. Hide a piece of apple wood for him to gnaw and you will see how much fun he can have in his own exercise yard. However, you should always keep an eye on him whilst he is in his play area.

If you provide a wheel in the cage so your rat can exercise, make sure that it is big enough for him. He must not have to bend his back whilst inside. Also ensure that it has a solid floor and not rungs as rungs can cause injuries to the feet and tail.

Although rats sleep during the day, they are really energetic and will exercise for 3-4 hours a night, and will enjoy spending the evenings with you!



  

  Accessories

Rats are naturally very active and inquisitive animals. They like to keep themselves busy and, when allowed, spend the majority of their time running around and investigating their surroundings.

Their natural instincts are to explore and socialise. It only takes a few items to create an exciting playground for your pet.

Piles of logs (natural wood – willow, beech, hazel or apple) make platforms for them to explore or rest under. Rats will chew the wood and this will help keep their teeth in trim!

Feeding time for a domestic animal is often over in minutes whereas, in the wild, feeding takes most of the day as they forage for their favourite foods. By hiding food and the occasional treat your rat will be forced to hunt for his food – this will keep him occupied for many happy hours and prevent boredom.



  

  Handling Your Rat

To ensure that your rat becomes tame and affectionate it is important that you handle it frequently and correctly. Picking up a rat incorrectly could lead to your rat being permanently frightened and may lead to it becoming aggressive.

Remember that most small animals are prey in the wild. So, if they are approached from above they will see a large shadow and become scared. They might run and hide or try to attack you.

Before attempting to handle your rat, make sure he is awake and alert or he might be scared and try to bite you. Talking to your rat makes him aware that you are close by and wanting to socialise. Always approach your rat calmly and gently.  

Answer 3

The cage looks a good size but check the space between each bar rats dont need much room to get out and check the floor as mine didnt like bars as the floor as thay got older ive 14 rats so changed them to a different cage as they get to old age and some times a big cage is hard to reach in to to clean hope this helps a little

Answer 4

The only thing I would worry about is the rats being able to fit through the bars. You should check it out at the store before buying one. I have seen these in the store before and that is plenty big for 4 rats...maybe even 5. 5 would be pushing it, but they do love company, so I'm sure they would still be happy with 5! Thanks for not keeping them in a teeny tiny cage!

Answer 5

it would be great for 3 rats i think you could probs get 4

Answer 6

i love the cage it is just enough:) you can have more than 4 in it.

Im glad you thinkin big. I lije the cage really;)