Why is choosing the best pet rat cage so important?
The cage is where your rats will spend most of their time. They’ll eat, sleep, play, explore, drink water, urinate, defecate and build nests while inside their cage.
Your rats’ cage is the one purchase you usually only make once. So, make it count. I like to think of it as a palace rather than a cage. Afterall, it’s a place of refuge where your rats feel comfortable and protected.
I want to acknowledge there are a few people who decide to allow their pet rats free range all the time. I don’t recommend this, but if you want to let your rats free roam 100% of the time, make sure to create a room that’s safe for pet rats.
What size pet rat cage should I buy?
The answer to this question is the larger the better. Some experts say you should have 2.5 cubic feet per rat. However, I’d prefer to see at least 5 cubic feet per rat.
Cage bar spacing
Pet rat bar spacing is particularly important. For rats 6 months or younger, it’s necessary to get a cage with narrower bar spacing. Some cages (such as the Rat Manor) have 3/8” bar spacing, which is great. The absolute maximum bar spacing for babies is ½”.
For adults, bar spacing should be no greater than 1”.
Many cages made for other types of animals often have wider bar spacing than is safe for rats. If the bar spacing is so far apart that your rats can squeeze through, there are multiple dangers. For one thing, your rats could escape. If they get out in a room that isn’t rat proofed they could get hurt. Another thing that can happen with spacing that’s too wide, is your rats can attempt to squeeze through the bars. They can end up stuck halfway….which also could result in injury. It’s especially scary to think of this happening when you’re not around to get them unstuck.
Bar Orientation
Cages can come with either horizontal or vertical bars. I prefer horizontal because I think it’s easier for them to climb.
What to avoid when selecting your pet rats’ cage:
- Any wood parts. Wood cannot be washed clean and liquids (including urine) will soak into it.
- Any sharp edges on which the rats can injure themselves
- Aquariums – Glass enclosures don’t allow air to flow freely. This can result in increased risk for respiratory disease due to urine and feces being allowed to remain inside a tank with no air flow.
- Any wire mesh on the flooring of the cage unless you cover it completely. If you were to allow your rat to walk regularly on uncovered wire mesh, your rat could develop bumblefoot. Bumblefoot is a bacterial infection and inflammatory reaction that occurs on the bottom of rat feet, which is often not easy to resolve.
- Tall cages that are one level vertically with only ledges rather than actual floors to each level. If your rat was on a top “shelf” they could fall to the bottom of the cage. This can cause internal bleeding and other types of injuries. Rats can and do fall.
Which pet rat cage should I buy for babies?
If you are getting babies, you can start with a smaller cage, such as the Rat Manor. It can comfortably house 2-3 babies until they’re around 6 months old. When your babies become adults, buy a larger cage for them. Keep the Rat Manor (or any smaller cage), though. The Rat Manor is collapsible so it can store easily. It can come in handy when short-term housing is needed. I’ve had my Rat Manor for 16 years and I still use it several times a year.
Your Rat Manor (or any other small cage not in use) can help when you need:
- to quarantine a new rat before introductions are made with your current rat(s)
- a hospital cage (If your cage is a Rat Manor or any 2 story smaller cage, you can block off access between the floors so it’s only one level)
- to temporarily move your rats to another room (such as when you have house guests or are remodeling)
- to house your rats when you’re cleaning their big cage
Which cage is good for both babies and adults?
One of the best cages for adults is the Double Critter Nation. At 31.5 cubic feet, it can comfortably house around 6 rats. And 2 rats would be in heaven in this cage. Critter Nation cages have full-sized double doors. When opened, there’s no center bar obstructing you from being able to fit your whole body into the cage making it easy to clean and decorate. There’s a storage area beneath the cage and the whole thing is on wheels that lock. In addition, there’s a locking ramp (for the two-story Critter Nation which is useful when you want to separate your pet rats. This cage is considered by many to be the “gold standard” for pet rat cages.
The only thing I don’t like about the Critter Nation cages, is it would be safer if, instead of the high ledges halfway up each level, these were actual full-length floors. Particularly when your rats age, they can easily from higher surfaces. This can result in internal bleeding, broken bones, etc.
If you need to start a little smaller for adults. You can buy a single story Critter Nation. Later, you can easily add on a second level.
If you’re choosing other cages than the ones mentioned above, click here for a detailed cage comparison chart:
Take your time and consider carefully what will work best for you and your rats. You’ll be happy you looked into all the options so you can make the best, most informed choice.
Updated 4/25/23
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Hi! I’m planning on getting 2 females rats in the future. Do you know the size of the average female rat as I’m trying to find a good cage thanks! Also if you find any good cages please let me know!
Hi Kirsty,
That’s great you’re taking the time out to research the best cage for your future rats. You’ll be happy you took out the time to figure this out….and so will your rats! :)
When you’re deciding on which cages are best for your future girls, you’ll want to keep in mind whether you’re getting babies or adults. (My above article goes over this in detail…) For example, if you’re getting babies, do you want to start with a smaller cage? Or do you prefer to buy a larger cage that will be approriate for all ages of rats? If you prefer to buy a cage for all ages (and sizes) of rats, you’ll need to make sure the bar spacing is no more than 1/2″.
Also as mentioned above, 5 cubic feet of cage space per rat is a good size for your rats. To determine the cubic feet of a cage, use this formula: Length in inches divided by 12 x Width in inches divided by 12 x Height in inches divided by 12. This will give you the cubic feet of the cage.
This cage, which comes in 3 sizes, is available at very inexpensive prices. In the reviews, some people say they’ve found it difficult to assemble. Most reviewers, however, say it’s not that difficult and that it’s great for their rats.
Please note, there are many cages available that would be suitable for your future rats. The above is just one example I found on Amazon. Just keep in mind the bar spacing that’s appropriate for your rats’ ages and then get a cage as large as you possibly can. (Other guidelines for choosing the best cage are in included my article above.)
Let me know if you need any clarification or if you have any further questions.
I’m excited for you! You’re going to love having pet rats.
Best Wishes,
Jasmine | About Pet Rats
PS – Please note that the above link is an affiliate link. This means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps pay for my website costs and for my time.
Hello!
Im looking into getting my first pet rats, and i was wondering if this cage would be good in your opinion? https://www.amazon.com/3-Tiers-Foldable-Habitate-Chewproof-Chinchilla/dp/B00HX1182I/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8&th=1
people have mentioned in the reviews that the tray at the bottoms comes out too easily and has gaps sometimes, so i’d plan to get some way to close those gaps. Most of the other reviews seem good. my plan is to get two baby female rats, and I’m a teenager with no job at the moment so im on a tightish budget. I also would like to know if having a deep tray would be good for baby rats?
Best wishes,
Valentino
Hi Valentino,
In my opinion, that cage is a little too small. I like to see a minimum of 5 cubic feet per adult rat. The one you found is only 5.3 cubic feet.* I know you said you’re getting babies, but it would be great to find a cage that would work for them long-term.
I like this cage better. It’s a lot larger, but not that much more expensive than the one you found. It still has the ½” bar spacing. It comes in 3 sizes. Make sure to click on each of the sizes to see which one you like best. (Some of the sizes are taller and some are wider.) You can see what dimensions will fit best in your living space.
The only thing I don’t like about these cages is they don’t have actual floors but instead have just a platform on one side of the cage for each level. I would worry about a rat falling off a platform, especially when they get older (when they’re more prone to falling). However, you can find ways to fill in the rest of the floor for each level. You could make something yourself or buy some metal shelves that would fit inside the cage.
To answer your question about whether a deep tray is okay for baby rats, I cover the surfaces of all floors and ramps to protect their feet. So I don’t ever even use the trays. They’re still great to have under the cage since you can shake out the cloth coverings and let any debris fall through into the tray when you’re getting ready to clean the cage.
I’m so glad you commented on this page. I see I need to update my cage comparison chart to reflect what’s currently available and the current pricing.
Let me know if you have any further questions or need any clarification on what I’ve written here.
I’m excited for you getting new baby rats. You’re going to have so much fun with them. It’s great you’re doing your research before getting your new babies.
Best Wishes to You & Your Future Rats,
Jasmine | About Pet Rats
PS – Please note that the above links are affiliate links. This means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps pay for my website costs and for my time.
Hi! I’m loving this info page, I needed this. I currently have two dumbo rats both around 1 years old, but one of mine is still very small for his age and is creative about escaping. I didn’t know at the time but I currently have a wood cage and I need to get rid of it for the obvious reasons but wire cages scare me because I think my small rat can find a way out. I’m not sure what to get to avoid this problem. Do you mind helping me find a cage for them that can prevent escapes?
Hi Kylee,
I’d love to help you find a cage for your rats. It sounds like your rats (especially your smaller one) need narrow bar spacing.
I just now did a little research and found this cage that I think looks really good. The only thing I don’t like about it is it has platforms on the inside rather than full-width floors. You could easily remedy this, though, by buying some additional ledges (or making some yourself) that would stretch all the way across. You also won’t need the wooden perches, of course. I want to add that zip ties come in super handy anytime you find a larger crack between bars on the edges of the cage.
I’m going to email you directly as well as answer your comment here. Feel free to respond anyway that’s most convenient for you. Let me know if you have questions or need any further help. I’m always happy to assist in any way I can.
I really appreciate your asking your question….I’m now seeing some updates I want to make to my recommended cages pdf document.
It’s so great to hear from someone who’s taking the time to research and figure out what’s best for your rats!
Best Wishes to You & Your Rats,
Jasmine | About Pet Rats
P.S. The above is an affiliate link. If you purchase a product through this link I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps maintain About Pet Rats. I only share products and supplies I think are fabulous for pet rats. Thank you for your support!
Hi there! This is great info for someone just looking at getting a few ratties!
I noticed that several of the cages mentioned seem to have the bottom tray BELOW the wire grill. Won’t the grill potentially lead to bumblefoot? Or is the expectation that one would just load it with bedding?
You mention having full floors rather than just platforms due to fall danger. However the Critter Nation and the out-of-stock Prevue seem to have a platform on each of the two “boxes”. Am I missing something?
Hi Carlos,
Thanks for asking your excellent questions!
Most cages do have the tray beneath the grill. You’re right, it can cause bumblefoot if your rats stand directly on the wire for repeated, extended periods. I always cover my cage floor bottoms with fleece blankets. Below that, I use pee pads—if my rats don’t chew on the pee pads. (Pee pads are toxic if they chew on them.) If your rats are chewers, use plain newsprint instead.
Here’s a page on my website that goes over how I recommend using bedding and litter.
That’s an excellent point you make about the high levels of the cages that have just a platform halfway up to divide each story in half. Those definitely are not ideal. You may have missed what I wrote above. (It’s right underneath the picture of the Double Critter Nation) I wrote: The only thing I don’t like about the Critter Nation cages, is it would be safer if, instead of the high ledges halfway up each level, these were actual full-length floors.
The cage that ha the floor/level spacing that I prefer most is the KINGBO 3-Tier Ferret Cage with 3 Front Doors.
Let me know if you have any additional questions or if you need any clarification. I’m excited for you that you’re looking into getting pet rats. You’re going to love them!
Jasmine | About Pet Rats
I have been looking into getting rats and I’m wondering if this cage is any goodhttps://www.chewy.com/aivituvin-air38-5-level-wooden-small/dp/577670?utm_source=google-product&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=18806583592&utm_content=Aivituvin&utm_term=&gclid=CjwKCAiAxP2eBhBiEiwA5puhNeAP0WRjKtyYakSfhqI3KoH_fnA30vlATkZ4GkiagJbIqGfKizdJKxoCtUQQAvD_BwE
Hi Arie,
The reason I would not buy that cage is because it’s made of wood. Your rats would be highly likely to chew on it. Besides chewing, a huge problem with a cage made of wood is that it’s impossible to clean. Over time, urine and other matter would soak into the wood. The odor from urine build-up is very unhealthy and can result in respiratory disease.
The other thing I don’t like about that cage is there aren’t multiple stories or floors in it. I prefer that any tall/vertical space be divided up into multiple floors. The reason for this is if your rat were to fall from high up in the cage, it wouldn’t fall all the way to the bottom which would be dangerous and could cause injury.
I looked at a few other cages currently available. One thing that would be helpful to know is if you’re getting super young rats or older rats. Starting at around 8-9 months, bigger bar spacing is okay. Before that you’ll want to get around ½” bar spacing so they don’t slip through the bars
.
Here are a few cages I’ve found that look good:
For younger rats (8wks – around 9 months):
7/16″ bar spacing (37″L x 23 1/8″W x 63 3/8″H including stand. Height of cage without stand: 45”) Prevue Pet Products 484 Deluxe Critter Cage $323.97
Note: This cage is more expensive, but it is a larger cage and you’ll be able to use it continuously without needing to switch to a different cage when babies grow up.
.4” bar spacing, (23″ × 17″ × 39): KINGBO 3-Tier Ferret Cage with 3 Front Doors, $149.99
Note: Not as big as cage above, but is much less expensive.
For 9 mos or older/larger rats:
7/8” bar spacing (31 x 20 x 54) Yaheetech 2-Story Removable Ramp & Platform Small Pet Cage $136.98
Note: Very good price for size, but it’s definitely for 9 months and older due to bar spacing.
One thing you can do is buy a smaller cage for when they’re babies and then keep that smaller cage when you buy a bigger cage when your rats are older. It’s often handy to have a second smaller cage for if they need to temporarily be housed in a different area of the house or you need to separate your rats for a period of time.
Thank you for asking your excellent question. You’ve helped me see I really need to revise this page! (I’ll add it to my ever-growing list of things I want to do to improve my website.)
That’s great you’re doing your research before getting your pet rats. So many people don’t plan ahead. Sounds like you’re going to be a great rat parent!
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Jasmine | About Pet Rats
Please note, the above contains affiliate links. This means I earn a very small commission at no extra cost to you when you use one of the links to make a purchase. I really appreciate your support—it helps cover the costs of this website and my time.
Hello thanks for the response I ultimately decided on a cage you recommend in another comment https://www.chewy.com/prevue-pet-products-feisty-ferret/dp/133474?
It wasn’t available on Amazon but I found it on chewy I’m planning on modifying it a little for younger rats thanks so much for the response and all of this helpfull information
Glad you found a cage that you’re happy with. Have a wonderful time with your new rats when you get them!
Jasmine
No. That wouldn’t be great. It’s wood, and urine will soak into it. It doesn’t allow for proper cleaning and also there aren’t full floors to protect your rat if it fell from the top. Really dangerous for rats.
Hi! I’m going to be getting three male rats soon, and I’m not sure what cage to get. So far, I’m leaning towards a Double Critter Nation cage. Would that be an appropriate rat cage? Can younger rats live in a big cage? Also, how big should a travel cage be (I plan on getting one big cage for their home, and a smaller cage or transport carrier for car rides or traveling.)
Also, I just wanted to say that your blog is amazing! Thank you so much for all your helpful information on rats!
Hi There!
The Double Critter Nation cage should be fine for 3 baby male rats. In fact, I think it will be more than fine—-exceptional would be a better description.
As for a travel cage, I have found cat carriers to work exceptionally well. After they become adults (and are a larger size) I also really like this collapsible cage/carrier.
Have you seen my article On the Road with Rats? It was written pre-COVID so it may need a few updates, but I think you might find it helpful.
I’m so glad you’re finding my blog useful. That makes me so happy to hear that it’s helping you.
Feel free to ask more questions any time. I’m always here for you and your rats. I’m so excited to hear you’re getting 3 boys!
Jasmine | About Pet Rats
Hi I’m researching to get rats in the summer, I was just wondering if the cage I have my eye on is good to use? (https://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/furet-plus-rat-cage?istCompanyId=7255ccad-a1fc-4729-af31-478f79e5071c&istFeedId=643142ca-4bc2-459f-88c5-ba9630b42bbb&istItemId=itxmxxtqi&istBid=t#)
Hi Ann,
Thanks for your important question! First of all, I need to let you know how impressed I am that you’re doing your research before actually getting your rats.
The cage you’re looking at would be okay if you’re planning on getting it as a “starter” cage…..with the understanding you’d be getting a larger one later. It would work out fine as a starter cage especially if you’re planning on getting babies. Once they become adults, however, the cage would be a little small. It would be a good one to hang on to for later on, though, since you could use it for quarantining new or sick rats. You could also use it for temporary housing while cleaning their larger cage or use it for if you need to keep them in a different room such as if you had house guests.
For me, an ideal cage would include:
1) At least 2 separate floors. Each floor would be partitioned off for the full length and width of the cage with just a small opening large enough for a ramp to go up or down to the adjacent floor. The cage you are looking at only has a ledge in one corner. Rats can easily fall from a ledge—-although they’re agile, some rats are prone to falling even when they’re babies. When they fall they can get injured.
2) Large front doors. (See below for links to examples.) The door on the side of the cage at which you’re looking is a little small. It’s great that it also has the large door on top. However, you’d want to be careful if you used that particular door to lift your rats out of the cage: Coming from above could make you seem like a predator swooping in to pick them up with your “talons”. Moving slowly and talking with them while you gently scoop them up would make it easier for your rats if you were picking them up from the top door of this cage.
I looked at the other cages on the site you provided and didn’t see any that were that great. I see that you’re in the UK, so I took a peek at the options available on the UK Amazon site:
This cage looks great but it’s not currently available. I like this cage because it has the full floor (rather than just a corner platform) and I really like the large front doors that open in either direction from the center. (This makes it super easy to clean and it’s easier to get your rats out from this size of door as well.)
I like this cage but it’s got big bowls that are more appropriate for birds or ferrets. They wouldn’t cause a problem, though, and you wouldn’t have to use them. Two other drawbacks to this particular cage would be you’d want to cover the floors and the ramps of the cage. This would be easy to do, however. The reason you’d want to cover them is because your rats’ feet could get caught and they could possibly twist their ankle. There’s also the potential for rats to get a disease called “bumblefoot” from having their feet on bare metal bars. It’s always a good idea to cover cage floors and ramps anyways so this isn’t a big drawback.
I also like this cage but the bar spacing is too wide for babies or small females. So, this type of cage could definitely be one you could get later on if you’re planning on getting babies and using a smaller cage in the beginning.
I hope you find my response helpful. Don’t hesitate to let me know if you need any clarification or if you have any other questions. Feel free to send any other links to cages you’re considering in the future, too.
Again, I’m very impressed you’re planning ahead and researching which cage to buy!
Take Care,
Jasmine | About Pet Rats
Hi that was so helpful! I’ve finally narrowed it down to the second cage (https://www.amazon.co.uk/LITTLE-FRIENDS-Triple-Chinchilla-Ferret/dp/B00GO0K80W/ref=pd_sbs_2?pd_rd_w=Z8PNA&pf_rd_p=07da8879-85f6-456f-911c-215915448007&pf_rd_r=T5AZH0CD7H8G4SC485Q7&pd_rd_r=c85deb28-b3e6-4c97-82df-ea9089895907&pd_rd_wg=9nYOT&pd_rd_i=B00GO0K80W&psc=1) because I wanted to get one that was higher up or could go on some drawers as I have cats and in the unlikely situation they would get it I want to make sure it would be hard for them to reach the rats. I just wanted to check if it would be too big for babies (bar spacing, size, etc) and if it was, is there anything that I could get to put on it or something? (As I would like to buy a smaller cage and move to a bigger one as my babies get older but sadly I don’t have the money for it unless I find a good deal).
Thanks again for answering all my questions, as I can tell it could be annoying.
Hi Ann,
I’m so glad my response to you was helpful. The cage you’re selecting looks great. From what I can tell, the bar spacing seems like it would be safe for babies. I think the only thing I’d be careful of is the doors that open for the food bowls. It looks like there’s a gap on the left side of these doors. However, as long as the gap isn’t wider than the bar spacing, it shouldn’t be a problem. You could always cover over this gap while your rats are still babies if it is larger than the bar spacing.
Just to clarify, this cage is large enough for adult rats so you wouldn’t need to buy a new one if you start with this one. (Or maybe you’re planning on starting with a smaller one first?)
I’m hoping you’ve already read my post about having rats and cats living in the same home.
Again, it’s fantastic you’re planning ahead so well. It’s never a bother to answer questions. It makes me happy to be able to help!
I look forward to hearing about your rats in the future and don’t hesitate to let me know any additional questions any time.
Jasmine