If you’re wondering how many rats can live in a 30 cm × 30 cm × 30 cm cage, the quick answer is: none. This cage is far too small for even a single rat.
Rats are active, intelligent animals that need plenty of space to move, explore, and socialize. A cage measuring 30x30x30 cm may look cute or compact, but it’s not suitable for the physical or mental health of any rat, not even temporarily.
Why 30x30x30 cm Is Too Small
Let’s break it down with simple math:
- Width: 30 cm
- Depth: 30 cm
- Height: 30 cm
Volume = 30 × 30 × 30 = 27,000 cubic centimeters (0.027 cubic meters)
Each rat needs at least 60,000 cubic centimeters (or 0.06 cubic meters) of cage volume—more if you want them to be comfortable and happy. That means a 30x30x30 cage doesn’t even provide enough space for half a rat, by minimum standards.
Minimum Space Required Per Rat
To help you understand the proper requirements, here’s a quick table:
| Number of Rats | Minimum Cage Volume | Recommended Dimensions (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 60,000 cm³ | 80×50×50 |
| 2 | 120,000 cm³ | 80×50×80 |
| 3 | 180,000 cm³ | 100×60×80 |
Clearly, a 30×30×30 cm cage doesn’t come close to meeting the space requirements for even one rat.
Why Size Matters for Rats
Cramped cages can cause serious problems for rats, including:
- Stress and anxiety
- Aggression or fighting
- Obesity due to lack of movement
- Muscle and joint problems
- Depression and behavioral issues
Even if you’re using a 30x30x30 cm cage for travel or temporary holding, it should be limited to only a few minutes. Rats need space to stretch, climb, and play.
What Cage Size Should You Aim For?
If you’re serious about giving your rats a good life, go much bigger.
Here’s what to aim for:
- Minimum for 1 rat: 60,000 cm³ (e.g. 80×50×50 cm)
- Minimum for 2 rats: 120,000 cm³ (e.g. 80×50×80 cm)
- More than 2 rats: Add 30,000–60,000 cm³ per additional rat
Also, vertical space matters. Rats love to climb, so multi-level cages with ramps, hammocks, and platforms offer a more enriching environment.
Use a Cage Size Calculator
Want to be 100% sure your cage is the right size? Don’t guess. Use this easy tool to Calculate their Rat Cage Size Requirements based on your actual dimensions and number of rats.
It only takes a minute and helps you avoid costly or harmful mistakes when choosing a cage.
Conclusion
A 30×30×30 cm cage is not suitable for rats—no matter how small or temporary the space is.
Rats need room to move, climb, and explore. Anything less than 60,000 cm³ is below minimum standards and risks their health and well-being.
If you already have a 30 cm cage, consider repurposing it for food storage, travel supplies, or accessories—not as a living space.
To find the ideal cage size, use the Rat Cage Calculator and make sure your pets have the space they deserve to thrive.
Better space means better lives—for both you and your rats.