Owning rats is an incredibly rewarding experience—they’re intelligent, playful, and social creatures. But as much as you love them, you know they need the right space to thrive. One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make as a rat owner is choosing the best rat cage for your pets, especially when you’re housing three of them. It’s essential to find a cage that offers enough room, security, and comfort to make sure all your rats can coexist happily without getting stressed or cramped.
So, how do you pick the best cage for 3 rats? Well, let me tell you—it’s not just about getting the biggest one you can find. After housing multiple rats myself, I’ve learned a thing or two about what works and what doesn’t. Let’s break it down!
Why Does the Right Cage Matter?
Rats are active and curious animals. They need a cage that gives them enough space to move around, explore, and play, especially if you’re keeping more than one. A cage that’s too small will leave them feeling stressed and cramped, potentially leading to fights and behavioral problems. If you’re housing three rats together, it’s even more critical to have a cage that provides enough room for them to share and plenty of enrichment to keep them occupied.
I know the challenge of finding a perfect balance—keeping them safe, happy, and giving them space to express their natural behaviors. Trust me, it makes a huge difference in their happiness and overall health.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Cage for 3 Rats
1. Space and Size:
Rats need room to roam. A cage that is too small will only create problems. For 3 rats, you should aim for a minimum of 2 cubic feet per rat. That means your cage should be at least 6 cubic feet in total for three rats.
- Ideal Dimensions: A cage should ideally be 36 inches long x 24 inches wide x 36 inches high (or roughly 90 x 60 x 90 cm). But bigger is always better, especially for social animals like rats who need room to move.
2. Bar Spacing:
Rats are small, agile creatures, and they can squeeze through surprisingly narrow gaps. To keep them safe, the spacing between the bars should be no more than ½ inch. If the bars are too far apart, your rats could escape, or worse, get stuck.
- Pro Tip: Measure the gap between bars before purchasing to ensure it’s small enough to keep your rats secure.
3. Material and Durability:
Rats are notorious for chewing, and you’ll want a cage that’s made of sturdy, chew-resistant material. Most rat cages are made from metal or wire, which are excellent because they’re strong and easy to clean.
- Material Options:
- Powder-coated steel is a great option because it’s durable, rust-resistant, and chew-proof.
- Stainless steel is another fantastic choice if you’re willing to invest a bit more.
4. Levels and Platforms:
Rats love to climb and explore, so look for a cage with multiple levels or platforms. These give your rats more space to roam and help prevent fights over territory. Additionally, platforms should be made of materials that are easy to clean and not too slippery (to avoid accidents).
- Bonus Tip: Make sure the platforms have enough height between them for rats to jump, but not so high that they risk injuring themselves if they fall.
5. Ventilation and Airflow:
Proper airflow is crucial for rats, especially since they are prone to respiratory issues. Look for a cage with enough open space between the bars or mesh to ensure proper ventilation, but not so open that it leaves them vulnerable to drafts.
- Pro Tip: Avoid cages with solid walls or floors, as they can trap moisture and lead to unhealthy conditions for your rats.
6. Accessibility and Ease of Cleaning:
You’ll need to clean your rat’s cage regularly, so make sure the cage is easy to access. Ideally, the cage should have large doors or removable trays for simple maintenance. This will make cleaning their bedding, food dishes, and water bottles a breeze.
- Pro Tip: Consider a cage with a removable base or tray for easier cleaning, especially if you use bedding that can be messy.
Top 3 Best Cages for 3 Rats
Now that you know what to look for, let me share my top recommendations based on personal experience and feedback from other rat owners. These cages provide enough room, are easy to clean, and are designed to keep your rats happy and healthy.
1. MidWest Homes for Pets Rat Cage (Critter Nation)
Why it’s great: If you’re looking for a spacious, durable, and easily accessible cage for your three rats, the Critter Nation Cage from MidWest Homes is a fantastic choice. It provides ample space with multiple levels, ramps, and wide doors for easy access. It’s perfect for up to 3 rats and even larger groups.
- Size: 36” L x 24” W x 39” H
- Materials: Powder-coated steel
- Features:
- Two spacious levels for climbing and exploration.
- Easy-to-remove trays for hassle-free cleaning.
- Large doors for easy access and interaction.
- Highly durable, chew-proof, and rust-resistant.
Pros:
- Ample space for multiple rats.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- Multiple levels and ramps for climbing.
Cons:
- On the pricier side.
2. Ferplast Rat Cage (Cage Rabbit 100)
Why it’s great: The Ferplast Cage Rabbit 100 is another great option. It’s designed for smaller animals like rats and provides a spacious environment with a sturdy build. The cage comes with a deep plastic base that helps reduce mess, making it a great choice for keeping your rats comfortable and your space clean.
- Size: 39.5” L x 20” W x 21.5” H
- Materials: Wire and plastic
- Features:
- Spacious with a large base and several levels.
- Easy access with wide doors.
- Sturdy and chew-resistant.
- Includes shelves and ramps for added climbing space.
Pros:
- Affordable.
- Easy to assemble.
- Deep base for less mess.
Cons:
- A bit shorter than some larger models, so make sure it’s tall enough for your rats to climb comfortably.
3. Living World Deluxe Habitat
Why it’s great: The Living World Deluxe Habitat is a great starter cage for owners with three rats. It’s easy to assemble, provides plenty of space for your rats, and includes everything you need for a functional habitat. With a large door for easy access and plenty of room to add accessories, this is an ideal choice for a smaller group of rats.
- Size: 36” L x 18” W x 20” H
- Materials: Metal and plastic
- Features:
- Deep plastic base to hold bedding and reduce mess.
- Large front door for easy access and cleaning.
- Includes a water bottle and food dish, which saves you time.
Pros:
- Affordable and easy to set up.
- Comes with useful accessories.
- Comfortable space for smaller groups of rats.
Cons:
- A bit on the smaller side if you plan on adding more rats in the future.
How to Set Up Your Cage for 3 Rats
Once you’ve selected the perfect cage for your trio, it’s time to set it up! Here’s how to create a rat-friendly environment that promotes their health and happiness:
- Add Bedding: Rats need soft bedding to burrow in, like recycled paper bedding or aspen wood shavings. Avoid cedar or pine, as the oils can be harmful to rats.
- Install Platforms: Set up multiple levels and platforms for your rats to climb, jump, and explore. Ensure they’re not too slippery.
- Provide Toys: Rats love toys that stimulate their minds. Consider adding tunnels, chew toys, and exercise wheels.
- Set Up Food and Water: Place food and water dishes in an easily accessible location. Make sure the water bottle is secure and working properly.
- Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly change bedding, clean food dishes, and wipe down the cage to keep it fresh and hygienic.
Make Sure You Choose the Right Cage: Use the RAT Cage Calculator!
Not sure if the cage you’re considering is the right size for 3 rats? Don’t worry! Our RAT Cage Calculator is here to help you choose the perfect cage for your furry friends. It’s an easy-to-use tool that will guide you in selecting the optimal cage size based on your rats’ needs. Whether you’re a new rat parent or a seasoned pro, this calculator is a must-have resource. Simply visit RAT Cage Calculator to get started and ensure you’re giving your rats the best home possible!
Conclusion
Choosing the right cage for your 3 rats is key to their well-being. The best cages offer ample space, durability, and easy access for cleaning, while also providing opportunities for your rats to explore and socialize. From spacious multi-level designs to deep plastic bases that reduce mess, there are plenty of options to choose from, whether you’re on a budget or willing to splurge on a top-tier cage.
And to ensure you’re selecting the right cage size for your rats, don’t forget to check out the RAT Cage Calculator. This easy tool will help you calculate the perfect dimensions and cage style, so you’re making the best decision for your rats’ happiness. Happy rat parenting!