Male rats tend to be larger, calmer, and less active than females, but they still need plenty of space to prevent boredom and territorial disputes. A well-chosen cage will provide comfort, enrichment, and security, ensuring your rats stay happy and healthy.
This guide covers:
- The ideal cage size for two male rats
- Best cages available on Amazon
- Key features to look for
- Common mistakes to avoid
- A free tool to check cage sizes
Minimum Cage Size for Two Male Rats
The general rule is at least 2 cubic feet of space per rat. For two male rats, you need a minimum of 4 cubic feet, but bigger is always better.
| 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 Two Male Rats 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
This is one of the best cages for two male rats. It provides plenty of space for lounging, with sturdy construction and easy cleaning access.
Pros:
✔ Spacious – More than enough room for two male rats
✔ Large double doors – Makes cleaning and handling easy
✔ Customizable layout – Add hammocks, ropes, and accessories
✔ Sturdy metal construction – Built to last
Cons:
✖ Takes up space – Ensure you have room for it
✖ Requires assembly – Can take 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 and has multiple platforms for enrichment.
Pros:
✔ Budget-friendly – Great value for a large cage
✔ Multiple levels – Allows for climbing and lounging
✔ Includes accessories – Comes with a hammock and ramps
Cons:
✖ Bar spacing may be too wide for small rats – Some owners reinforce it
✖ Doors are a bit small – Cleaning can be trickier
👉 Check it out on Amazon: Prevue Hendryx Feisty Ferret Cage
3. Yaheetech 52” 6-Level Cage (Best for Climbing Rats)
Dimensions: 31.5”L x 20.5”W x 52”H
Bar Spacing: ½ inch
Levels: Six levels with ramps
Price: Around $120
If your male rats love climbing, this cage is perfect. The six-level design keeps them entertained while providing plenty of space to stretch out.
Pros:
✔ Tall, multi-level setup – Encourages climbing and exploration
✔ Affordable – Large cage for a reasonable price
✔ Wheels for easy movement
Cons:
✖ Plastic ramps may need replacing – Can be slippery for older males
✖ Instructions can be confusing – Assembly may take extra time
👉 Check it out on Amazon: Yaheetech 6-Level Cage
4. 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 has deep pull-out trays that make cleaning easier than most cages.
Pros:
✔ Super easy to clean – Large trays slide out for quick maintenance
✔ Multi-level design – Includes platforms, ramps, and accessories
✔ Secure latches – Prevents escapes
Cons:
✖ Takes up more space – Requires room for setup
✖ Plastic trays may wear over time
👉 Check it out on Amazon: Aivituvin Large Rat Cage
What to Look for in a Cage for Male Rats
✔ Proper Bar Spacing
- Baby rats: ¼ inch spacing
- Adult rats: ½ inch spacing
✔ Multiple Hideouts
Males like to nest and rest more than females, so include hiding spots and hammocks.
✔ Easy-to-Clean Features
Look for removable trays, large doors, and wipeable surfaces.
✔ Good Ventilation
Avoid glass tanks or plastic enclosures—they trap moisture and cause breathing problems.
Common Cage Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Too Small – Anything under 4 cubic feet is not enough for two rats.
🚫 Wrong Bar Spacing – Gaps over ½ inch let rats escape or get stuck.
🚫 Glass Tanks – Poor airflow leads to respiratory problems.
🚫 No Enrichment – A cage without toys, tunnels, and platforms leads to boredom and stress.
Final Thoughts
For two male rats, the best cage option is the Midwest Critter Nation Single Unit, offering plenty of space, easy access, and durability. If you’re on a budget, the Prevue Hendryx Feisty Ferret Cage is a great alternative.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Minimum 4 cubic feet, but 9–12+ is ideal
✔ Multi-level cages help prevent obesity and boredom
✔ ½ inch bar spacing prevents escapes
✔ Easy-to-clean features will save you time and effort
💡 Not sure if a cage is big enough? Use this tool: Rat Cage Calculator