Rat Cage Size Calculator

Number of Rats	Minimum Cage Size (Cubic Feet)	Approximate Cage Dimensions (Inches)
1 Rat	2 cubic feet	18 x 18 x 18
2 Rats	4 cubic feet	24 x 24 x 18
10 Rats	20-30 cubic feet or more	48 x 48 x 36 or larger

FAQs

How big should my rat’s cage be? A suitable cage size for one rat is around 2 cubic feet (approximately 18 x 18 x 18 inches).

What size cage do 2 rats need? For two rats, you’ll want a cage that’s at least double the size, so around 4 cubic feet (approximately 24 x 24 x 18 inches).

What size cage for 2 fancy rats? Fancy rats are the same as regular pet rats, so the same cage size as mentioned above for two rats applies.

What size cage for 10 rats? For 10 rats, you’ll need a much larger cage, around 20-30 cubic feet or more (approximately 48 x 48 x 36 inches or larger).

Do rats prefer tall or wide cages? Rats typically prefer tall cages with multiple levels, as they love to climb and explore vertically. However, providing a mix of horizontal and vertical space is ideal.

What happens if a rat cage is too small? Inadequate cage space can lead to stress, aggression, and health issues in rats. They may become lethargic, less active, and exhibit behavioral problems.

Do rats like multi-level cages? Yes, rats enjoy multi-level cages because they like to climb and explore. Multi-level cages provide more space for them to move and play.

How often should you clean a rat cage with 2 rats? Cleaning a cage with two rats should be done at least once a week, including changing bedding and cleaning food and water dishes. Spot cleaning may be needed more frequently.

Is 3 rats better than 2? Having three rats can be better than two because it can reduce the likelihood of one rat feeling isolated if the others are occupied. However, it also depends on the size of the cage and your ability to provide proper care.

Can two rats live in a 20-gallon tank? A 20-gallon tank is generally too small for two rats. Rats need more space to move around, so it’s recommended to provide a larger cage or enclosure.

Do rats grow to the size of their cage? No, rats do not grow to the size of their cage. Their growth is determined by genetics and age, not by the size of their living space.

What should a floor of a rat cage be? The cage floor should be solid and not wire, as wire floors can cause foot and leg problems in rats. Cover the floor with safe bedding, such as aspen shavings or fleece liners.

Should I rearrange my rat’s cage? Occasionally rearranging the cage can provide mental stimulation for your rats. They enjoy exploring new layouts and having new things to discover.

Can rats squeeze through cage bars? Rats can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, so make sure the cage bars are spaced no wider than half an inch to prevent escapes.

How much out-of-cage time do rats need? Rats should have at least an hour of out-of-cage time every day for exercise and mental stimulation. More is even better.

Are male or female rats friendlier? Both male and female rats can be equally friendly and affectionate. It often depends on their individual personalities and how they are raised and socialized.

What bedding is best for rats? Safe bedding options for rats include aspen shavings, paper-based bedding, or fleece liners. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, as they can be harmful.

What bar spacing is best for rats? Bar spacing should be no wider than half an inch to prevent rats from escaping or getting stuck.

What do you put in the bottom of a rat cage? Line the bottom of the cage with appropriate bedding material, such as aspen shavings or fleece liners, to provide comfort and absorb waste.

What is the minimum cage size for 1 rat? The absolute minimum cage size for one rat is around 2 cubic feet (approximately 18 x 18 x 18 inches), but larger is always better for their well-being.

Can rats use hamster tubes? Rats can use hamster tubes, but it’s essential to ensure the tubes are large enough to accommodate their size and that they don’t get stuck.

Do rats like clutter in their cage? Yes, rats enjoy having things to explore and play with in their cage. Providing toys, hammocks, and hiding spots can enrich their environment.

Do rats get cage rage? “Cage rage” is not a recognized term in rat behavior. However, rats can become stressed or agitated if they don’t have enough space or stimulation in their cage.

Do rats like clean cages? Rats generally prefer clean cages, as dirty cages can lead to health issues and discomfort. Regular cleaning is essential.

How often should rats free roam? Rats should have at least an hour of free-roaming time daily to stretch their legs and interact with their environment.

How many times a day should you feed a pet rat? Providing a continuous supply of fresh food is ideal, but you can feed them 2-3 times a day with measured portions to avoid overfeeding.

How often do you clean a pet rat’s poop? Cleaning up rat droppings should be done daily or as needed to maintain a clean cage environment.

What I wish I knew before getting a rat? Before getting a rat, it’s essential to research their care needs thoroughly, be prepared for their social nature, and understand the time and commitment required for their well-being.

What is the ideal number of rats to have? The ideal number of rats to have depends on your ability to provide proper care, but having at least two rats is recommended since they are social animals.

What is the friendliest rat breed? There isn’t a specific “breed” of pet rat; they are typically domesticated Brown Rats. Friendliness can vary more based on individual personality and socialization.

Are glass tanks bad for rats? Glass tanks can lack proper ventilation and may not provide enough space for rats. Cages with better airflow are generally preferred.

What happens if you have 2 rats and one dies? If one of your rats dies, it’s essential to provide extra attention and companionship to the surviving rat, as they may become lonely and depressed.

Can a rat crawl out of a 5-gallon bucket? Rats are excellent climbers and can likely climb out of a 5-gallon bucket unless it has a secure lid.

What is the easiest rat cage to clean? Cages with removable trays or pans are typically easier to clean. Critter Nation cages are known for their ease of cleaning.

Are rats happy in a cage? Rats can be happy in a properly designed and maintained cage with plenty of stimulation, social interaction, and out-of-cage time.

What is the biggest rat ever? The largest recorded domesticated rat weighed around 2.5 pounds and was approximately 18 inches long (including the tail).

Do you put bedding in a rat cage? Yes, bedding is essential in a rat cage to provide comfort, absorb waste, and allow for natural behaviors like digging and burrowing.

What do rats like to play with? Rats enjoy toys like tunnels, hammocks, chew toys, and objects they can climb on. They also like items they can shred and nest with, such as paper.

Are rats high maintenance? Rats require regular care, including cleaning, feeding, and social interaction, but they are not considered high maintenance compared to some other pets.

Do rats get bored in their cage? Rats can get bored in an unstimulating environment. Providing toys, hiding spots, and rotating cage accessories can help prevent boredom.

Where do you put rats when cleaning a cage? You can put your rats in a secure playpen or a separate temporary cage while cleaning their primary cage.

Do rats like open spaces? Rats prefer having some open space in their cage for movement, but they also enjoy having toys, tunnels, and other enriching items to explore.

How do you calm a rat in a cage? To calm a rat, speak softly to them, offer treats, and gently interact with them. Slow movements and a calm demeanor help build trust.

Can rats walk on wire cages? Rats can walk on wire cage floors, but it’s not recommended, as it can cause foot and leg problems. Provide solid flooring or cover wire floors with safe materials.

How do you make a rat cage escape-proof? Ensure that the cage has secure latches, no gaps or loose bars, and that there are no climbing aids near the top of the cage that rats could use to escape.

Do rats prefer tall or long cages? Rats generally prefer tall cages with multiple levels for climbing and exploration, but a mix of both tall and long spaces is ideal.

How do I know if my rat is happy? A happy rat will be active, curious, have a healthy coat, eat well, and engage positively with you and other rats if they have companions.

What hours do rats sleep? Rats are crepuscular, which means they are most active during dawn and dusk, but they can sleep at various times throughout the day and night.

How do you potty train a rat? Rats can be litter-trained by placing a litter box in a consistent spot in their cage and rewarding them when they use it.

Can 2 male rats live together? Two male rats can live together harmoniously if they are properly introduced and neutered, as unneutered males may become aggressive.

Can 2 female rats live together? Female rats generally get along well and can live together in pairs or small groups without the need for neutering.

What do rats like to sleep on? Rats enjoy sleeping in hammocks, cozy bedding, or nest boxes filled with soft materials like tissue paper or fleece.

How do I bond with my rat? Bonding with rats involves spending time with them, offering treats, speaking softly, and providing gentle handling to build trust and companionship.

Do rats like dryer sheets? Dryer sheets can have chemicals that are harmful to rats, so it’s best to avoid using them in their cage.

What is the best rat group size? The ideal rat group size is at least two rats, as they are highly social animals and thrive with companionship.

How long should rats be out of their cage? Rats should have at least an hour of out-of-cage time daily, but more extended periods of playtime are beneficial for their well-being.

What should I put in a rat hole? Rats may dig holes for nesting or burrowing. You can provide nesting materials like paper towels, tissues, and safe fabrics for them to use.

How deep should rat bedding be? Rat bedding should be deep enough to allow for digging and burrowing, typically around 2-4 inches.

Can rats have toilet paper rolls? Rats can safely play with and chew on cardboard toilet paper rolls, but remove any glue or adhesive tape.

Can I put my rat in a hamster ball? Hamster balls are not suitable for rats. They can cause injury and stress. Instead, provide a secure playpen for out-of-cage time.

Do rats like dirty or clean places? Rats generally prefer clean environments. A clean cage reduces stress and promotes their overall well-being.

Do pet rats hold grudges? Rats do not hold grudges. They have short memories and quickly forgive any perceived slights.

Do rats get sad when their cage mate dies? Yes, rats can become depressed and mourn the loss of a cage mate. It’s essential to provide extra attention and consider getting a new companion.

What not to put in a rat cage? Avoid items that are toxic to rats, such as cedar or pine bedding, toxic plants, and unsafe plastics or metals.

What bedding should you not use for rats? Avoid using cedar and pine shavings, as they can release harmful aromatic compounds. Also, avoid any bedding that contains harmful chemicals.

How often do you clean a pet rat’s poop? Clean up rat droppings daily or as needed to maintain a clean and odor-free cage.

How many hours of attention do rats need? Rats benefit from daily social interaction and playtime outside the cage, at least an hour or more each day.

Should rats always have access to food? Rats can have access to food throughout the day, but monitor their intake to prevent overfeeding.

Can you leave pet rats alone for a week? Leaving rats alone for a week is not recommended. They require daily care, including food, water, and social interaction.

What is a rat’s favorite food? Rats enjoy a variety of foods, but some favorites include fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein sources like cooked chicken or eggs.

How many times a day does a rat clean itself? Rats are meticulous groomers and may clean themselves multiple times a day to maintain their hygiene.

How often do rats need to drink water? Rats should have access to clean, fresh water at all times. They will drink as needed.

Does rat pee wash out? Rat urine can often be removed from fabrics with proper cleaning methods, but it may leave a stain or odor if not addressed promptly.

Should you flush a rat down the toilet? Never flush a rat down the toilet. It’s not humane and can harm the plumbing system. Consider other disposal methods.

Should you vacuum rat poop? It’s safer to sweep or scoop up rat poop rather than vacuuming it, as vacuuming can spread allergens and potentially harmful particles.

How do you show your rat you love them? You can show love to your rats by spending time with them, providing affection, offering treats, and ensuring their overall well-being.

Do pet rats like to cuddle? Some pet rats enjoy cuddling and being close to their owners, while others may prefer less physical contact. It depends on their personality.

What do rats like to play with? Rats enjoy a variety of toys, including tunnels, hammocks, chew toys, and objects they can explore and climb on.

Are female rats better than males? Neither gender is inherently better than the other as pets. Both males and females can be wonderful companions, and their personalities can vary widely.

How much free roam should rats have? Rats should have at least an hour of free-roaming time daily, but more is better for their physical and mental health.

How often should rats be fed? Rats should be fed a balanced diet daily, with access to fresh food and water at all times.

What gender of rat is better for a pet? Both male and female rats can make excellent pets. The choice between them should be based on your preferences and the specific rats’ personalities.

What is the most aggressive rat? Aggression in rats is often related to individual temperament and socialization rather than gender or breed.

What I wish I knew before getting a rat? Before getting a rat, it’s important to understand their social nature, care requirements, and the commitment involved in providing for their well-being.

Do rats prefer water bottles or bowls? Water bottles are typically preferred for rats because they keep the water clean and prevent spills.

Can a rat live in a 40-gallon tank? A 40-gallon tank is still relatively small for rats, but it can work if you provide plenty of enrichment, levels, and out-of-cage time.

Why did my pet rat suddenly die? Sudden rat deaths can result from a variety of factors, including illness, old age, or environmental stress. It’s essential to consult a veterinarian for a necropsy to determine the cause.

Can rats tell when you’re sad? Rats are sensitive to their owners’ emotions and may react to changes in your behavior when you’re sad. They can offer comfort and companionship.

How many rats can a pair of rats have in a year? Rats can have multiple litters in a year, with each litter consisting of 6-12 pups on average. Responsible breeding is essential to prevent overpopulation.

Can rats swim up toilets? Rats are good swimmers and can potentially swim up toilets, but it’s rare. Proper plumbing and toilet maintenance can prevent this.

Should rats have a water bowl? Rats can have a water bowl, but it’s less common than using water bottles because bowls can become soiled more easily.

Can pet rats drink out of a water bowl? Yes, pet rats can drink from a water bowl, but it should be cleaned and refreshed regularly to ensure cleanliness.

How do I keep my rat cage smell-free? Regular cage cleaning, proper bedding, good ventilation, and maintaining proper hygiene practices can help keep a rat cage smelling fresh.

What is best to put on the floor of a rat cage? The floor of a rat cage should be covered with safe bedding material, such as aspen shavings or fleece liners, for comfort and hygiene.

What is the best thing to put in a rat cage? The best things to put in a rat cage include bedding, food and water dishes, toys, hammocks, tunnels, and hideaways to provide enrichment and comfort.

How much time do rats need out of their cage? Rats should have at least an hour of out-of-cage time daily, but more extended periods of playtime are beneficial for their well-being.

Do pet rats need time out of the cage? Yes, pet rats need time out of the cage for exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction with their owners.

Where is the best place to put a rat cage? Place a rat cage in a quiet, draft-free area away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. Avoid placing it in a noisy or high-traffic location.

Is there a king of rats? There is no specific “king” of rats. Rats are social animals that live in colonies with complex social hierarchies.

Why are NYC rats so big? Rats in urban areas like NYC may appear larger due to an abundance of food sources and a lack of natural predators.

How big are New York sewer rats? Sewer rats in New York City can vary in size, but they are typically not significantly larger than rats in other urban areas. Size can be influenced by factors like diet and genetics.