Fancy rats, also known as pet rats, are incredibly intelligent, social, and curious animals that thrive in environments where they have plenty of space to explore, climb, and play. If you’re looking for the best cage for your fancy rats, you’ll need something that provides both comfort and functionality. After spending time with different cages for my own rats, I’ve rounded up the top picks for fancy rat cages that provide ample space, durability, and ease of maintenance.
Choosing the right cage for your fancy rats is an important decision, as it directly impacts their health and happiness. Let’s dive into some of the best cages available, keeping in mind the space, safety, and comfort that your fancy rats deserve.
What Makes a Good Fancy Rat Cage?
Before we dive into the top cages, here are some key factors to consider when choosing the best cage for your fancy rats:
1. Space and Size
Rats need ample space to climb, explore, and nest. The more space you can provide, the better. For fancy rats, aim for at least 2 cubic feet of space per rat. For two rats, look for a cage with at least 4 cubic feet of total space, and for more rats, you’ll need a larger cage. Multi-level cages are ideal as they give rats both vertical and horizontal space.
2. Bar Spacing
Bar spacing should be no wider than ½ inch to prevent your rats from escaping or getting stuck. This is especially important for young or smaller rats, who are very good at squeezing through larger gaps.
3. Durability
Fancy rats are known for their chewing habits. A cage made from chew-resistant materials like powder-coated steel is ideal. You’ll want something sturdy enough to stand up to their natural instincts.
4. Ventilation
Proper airflow is essential for your rats’ respiratory health. Look for cages with mesh wire sides to ensure good ventilation, which prevents odors and promotes a fresh, healthy environment.
5. Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning your rats’ cage is essential for their health. Look for cages with removable trays, large doors, and easy access points to make cleaning a hassle-free experience. Rats can be messy, so the easier it is to clean their cage, the better.
Best Fancy Rat Cages
1. Critter Nation 2-Level Cage (MidWest Homes for Pets)
Why it’s great:
The Critter Nation 2-Level Cage is one of the most highly recommended rat cages available. It provides plenty of space, is made from chew-resistant materials, and is designed with multiple levels to encourage climbing and exploration. The powder-coated steel ensures it’s durable and long-lasting, while the removable trays make cleaning incredibly easy.
- Dimensions: 36” L x 24” W x 39” H
- Materials: Powder-coated steel, chew-resistant
- Features:
- Two spacious levels with ramps.
- Large front doors for easy access.
- Removable trays for easy cleaning.
- Small bar spacing (½ inch) to prevent escapes.
Pros:
- Spacious design with plenty of room for climbing and exploration.
- Durable construction that will stand up to your rats’ chewing habits.
- Easy to clean with large doors and removable trays.
Cons:
- Slightly on the pricier side compared to other cages.
- Assembly can be time-consuming.
Why it’s great for fancy rats:
The Critter Nation 2-Level Cage is ideal for fancy rats, offering them tons of space to roam, climb, and nest. Its durable construction and ease of cleaning make it a long-term investment that will keep your rats comfortable for years.
2. Savic Royal Suite XL
Why it’s great:
The Savic Royal Suite XL is a massive cage with multiple levels and plenty of space for fancy rats to climb and explore. It features sturdy construction and a deep plastic base to help contain bedding, preventing messes. The large front door makes it easy to access and interact with your rats.
- Dimensions: 95 x 56 x 90 cm (L x W x H)
- Materials: Metal wire with a plastic base
- Features:
- Multiple levels with ramps for climbing.
- Large front door for easy access.
- Deep plastic base to contain bedding.
- Safe bar spacing (½ inch).
Pros:
- Spacious, offering plenty of room for climbing and play.
- Deep base that contains bedding and mess.
- Easy to access and clean with a large front door.
Cons:
- The cage is quite large, so it may take up significant space in your home.
- The ramps can be slippery for rats, so additional accessories may be needed.
Why it’s great for fancy rats:
The Savic Royal Suite XL is perfect for fancy rats that love to climb. It’s spacious, durable, and easy to clean, making it ideal for both rats and their owners. It offers more than enough space for your rats to stay active and happy.
3. Yaheetech 3-Story Rat Cage
Why it’s great:
The Yaheetech 3-Story Cage is a budget-friendly option that still offers plenty of space for your fancy rats. This cage features three levels with ramps for climbing, and its removable tray makes cleaning easier. It’s affordable and spacious enough for a pair or a small group of rats.
- Dimensions: 31.5” L x 20.5” W x 51” H
- Materials: Powder-coated steel frame, plastic tray
- Features:
- Three levels with ramps.
- Removable tray for easy cleaning.
- Sturdy construction with secure latches.
- Affordable price point.
Pros:
- Affordable and spacious for two or three rats.
- Easy to clean with a removable tray.
- Sturdy construction that will last.
Cons:
- Not as durable as more expensive cages.
- May not be large enough for larger groups of rats or those who need a lot of climbing space.
Why it’s great for fancy rats:
The Yaheetech 3-Story Cage is an excellent budget-friendly option for fancy rats. It provides plenty of space and a multi-level design, which is perfect for keeping your rats active and comfortable.
4. Ferplast Furet Plus Cage
Why it’s great:
The Ferplast Furet Plus is a large and spacious cage that works well for fancy rats. It offers multiple levels and ramps for climbing, and its deep plastic base helps to contain bedding and waste. The cage is easy to clean, and its sturdy construction ensures that it will last.
- Dimensions: 78 x 51 x 88 cm (L x W x H)
- Materials: Metal wire with a plastic base
- Features:
- Multiple levels and ramps for climbing.
- Deep plastic base to contain bedding.
- Large front door for easy access.
- Removable tray for cleaning.
Pros:
- Very spacious for fancy rats, offering ample climbing space.
- Sturdy and durable construction.
- Easy to clean with large doors and a removable tray.
Cons:
- It may be too large for smaller spaces.
- Some users report that assembly can be tricky.
Why it’s great for fancy rats:
The Ferplast Furet Plus is ideal for fancy rats who love to climb. It provides plenty of space and is built to last. The multiple levels and ramps give rats plenty of room to explore and stay active.
5. Pet Planet Rat and Ferret Cage
Why it’s great:
The Pet Planet Rat and Ferret Cage is a spacious, multi-level cage that offers plenty of room for fancy rats. It features a deep plastic base for bedding, multiple levels with ramps for climbing, and a large front door for easy access and cleaning.
- Dimensions: 76 x 51 x 105 cm (L x W x H)
- Materials: Metal frame with plastic tray
- Features:
- Multiple levels with ramps for climbing.
- Deep plastic base to contain bedding.
- Large front door for easy access.
- Removable tray for easy cleaning.
Pros:
- Spacious and ideal for multiple fancy rats.
- Durable and sturdy construction.
- Easy to clean with a large front door and removable tray.
Cons:
- The cage is large, so it may not be suitable for smaller spaces.
- Some users report that assembly can take some time.
Why it’s great for fancy rats:
The Pet Planet Rat and Ferret Cage offers a generous amount of space for fancy rats. It’s sturdy, durable, and perfect for rats that need room to climb and explore.
Conclusion: Best Fancy Rat Cage
When choosing a cage for your fancy rats, you’ll want to make sure it provides ample space, is easy to clean, and keeps your rats safe and secure. Here’s a quick breakdown of the best cages for fancy rats:
- Best Overall: Critter Nation 2-Level Cage – Spacious, durable, and perfect for active fancy rats.
- Best for Climbing: Savic Royal Suite XL – Ideal for fancy rats who love to climb and explore.
- Best for Budget-Friendly Option: Yaheetech 3-Story Cage – Affordable and spacious with plenty of climbing opportunities.
- Best for Durability and Size: Ferplast Furet Plus – Sturdy and spacious, perfect for multiple fancy rats.
And if you’re ever unsure whether the cage you’re considering is the right size, don’t forget to use the RAT Cage Calculator. It’s a handy tool that can help you determine the best cage size based on the number of rats you have, ensuring they get the perfect home. Simply visit RAT Cage Calculator to find the ideal cage for your fancy rats!