Hairless rats have unique needs compared to their furred counterparts. Since they lack fur, they are more susceptible to temperature changes, abrasions, and dryness. This means that their cage must be warm, comfortable, and safe from rough surfaces that could irritate their skin.
This guide covers:
- The best cage options for a hairless rat
- Essential features to look for
- Common mistakes to avoid
- A free tool to check cage sizes
Minimum Cage Size for a Hairless Rat
The general rule for rats is at least 2 cubic feet per rat. However, hairless rats may need more space due to their preference for soft bedding and warm areas.
| Cage Type | Dimensions (L x W x H) | Cubic Feet | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Size | 24” x 12” x 24” | 4 cu. ft. | Temporary use |
| Good Size | 30” x 18” x 36” | 9 cu. ft. | Comfortable living space |
| Ideal Size | 36” x 24” x 48” | 12+ cu. ft. | Maximum space and enrichment |
💡 Not sure if a cage is big enough? Use this free tool: Rat Cage Calculator
Best Cages for a Hairless Rat on Amazon
1. Midwest Critter Nation Single Unit (Best Overall)
Dimensions: 36”L x 24”W x 39”H
Bar Spacing: ½ inch
Levels: One full platform, ramps
Price: Around $180
Hairless rats need soft surfaces, and the Critter Nation cage is ideal because it has flat platforms that can be covered with fleece liners for comfort.
Pros:
✔ Spacious – Ideal for one or more hairless rats
✔ Large double doors – Makes cleaning and handling easy
✔ Customizable layout – Add fleece bedding and soft accessories
✔ Sturdy metal construction – Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
✖ Takes up space – Ensure you have room for it
✖ Requires assembly – Takes about 30–45 minutes
👉 Check it out on Amazon: Midwest Critter Nation Single Unit
2. Prevue Hendryx Feisty Ferret Cage (Best Budget Option)
Dimensions: 31”L x 20”W x 55”H
Bar Spacing: ⅞ inch (may not be ideal for baby rats)
Levels: Two full levels, ramps
Price: Around $150
This cage is affordable yet spacious. It’s tall enough for climbing but requires soft bedding to prevent skin irritation.
Pros:
✔ Budget-friendly – Great value for a large cage
✔ Multiple levels – Allows for movement and enrichment
✔ Comes with a hammock – Perfect for hairless rats who need warmth
Cons:
✖ Bar spacing may be too wide for small rats – Reinforcement may be needed
✖ Metal ramps can be rough – Must be covered with fleece
👉 Check it out on Amazon: Prevue Hendryx Feisty Ferret Cage
3. Aivituvin Extra Large Rat Cage (Best for Easy Cleaning)
Dimensions: 36”L x 23.6”W x 50.4”H
Bar Spacing: ½ inch
Levels: Three platforms
Price: Around $200
This cage is great for hairless rats because of its pull-out trays, which make cleaning easier. Soft bedding can be placed inside without worrying about messes.
Pros:
✔ Easy to clean – Large trays slide out for maintenance
✔ Multi-level design – Perfect for enrichment
✔ Secure latches – Prevents escapes
Cons:
✖ Takes up more space – Needs a dedicated area
✖ Plastic trays may wear down over time
👉 Check it out on Amazon: Aivituvin Large Rat Cage
What to Look for in a Cage for Hairless Rats
✔ Soft Flooring & Accessories
- Use fleece liners instead of wire or plastic trays
- Avoid rough or sharp edges that can cause skin irritation
✔ Proper Bar Spacing
- Baby rats: ¼ inch spacing
- Adult rats: ½ inch spacing
✔ Temperature Control
- Hairless rats get cold easily, so ensure the cage is away from drafts
- Use hammocks, fleece blankets, and hideouts for warmth
✔ Easy-to-Clean Features
- Large doors for quick access
- Removable trays to change bedding without disturbing your rats
Common Cage Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Wire or rough surfaces – Hairless rats have delicate skin and need soft flooring
🚫 Too cold or drafty – Keep their cage in a warm room with fleece-lined hideouts
🚫 No enrichment – Hairless rats still need toys, tunnels, and hammocks
🚫 Plastic cages with poor ventilation – Can lead to humidity and skin infections
Final Thoughts
For a hairless rat, the best cage option is the Midwest Critter Nation Single Unit, as it allows for easy customization with fleece bedding. If you’re on a budget, the Prevue Hendryx Feisty Ferret Cage is a great alternative as long as ramps are covered.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Soft bedding is a must – Use fleece liners to protect delicate skin
✔ Multi-level cages provide enrichment without rough surfaces
✔ Keep the cage in a warm area to prevent chilling
✔ ½ inch bar spacing prevents escapes
✔ Easy-to-clean features save time and effort
💡 Not sure if a cage is big enough? Use this tool: Rat Cage Calculator