When you bring home baby rats, there’s no doubt you’ll be filled with excitement. They’re cute, curious, and, like all young animals, full of energy. However, caring for baby rats means setting up a home that’s specifically designed to meet their needs. Choosing the best cage for baby rats is essential, as they need a space that supports their growing size, activity level, and health.
I’ve been in your shoes—bringing home tiny baby rats and worrying about how to give them the best start in life. It’s not just about the cage size; it’s about providing an environment that’s secure, comfortable, and stimulating for them. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what to look for when picking the perfect cage for your baby rats, along with my top recommendations.
Why the Right Cage Matters for Baby Rats
Baby rats have different needs than adult rats. They’re small, delicate, and still developing their instincts and coordination. That’s why their cage should offer:
- Enough Space: Baby rats are active and need room to explore and develop their muscles.
- Safety: With their small size, they can easily escape from bars that are too wide. You’ll need a cage that keeps them securely inside.
- Comfort: You want to make sure they feel safe and at ease. A cage with soft bedding and plenty of places to nest will help them grow up healthy.
- Ventilation: Rats are prone to respiratory issues, so airflow is key for their health.
Getting the right cage isn’t just about meeting their needs in the present; it’s about giving them a good foundation for when they grow into adults.
Key Features to Look for in a Baby Rat Cage
1. Small Bar Spacing:
Baby rats are small, and they can escape through bars that are too wide. When selecting a cage for them, look for one with bars that are spaced no more than ½ inch apart to prevent escape or injury.
- Tip: Double-check the spacing, as some cages are designed for larger animals and may not be safe for babies.
2. Space to Move:
Baby rats are energetic and curious, and they need room to explore and stretch their little legs. While they won’t require as much space as adults, they still need a cage that’s large enough to accommodate their natural behavior.
- Recommended Size: For baby rats, you should aim for at least 2 cubic feet per rat. This means a cage that’s around 24 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 24 inches high is a good starting point for a few babies.
3. Multiple Levels and Ramps:
Baby rats love to climb and jump, and adding multiple levels with ramps will give them the space to exercise and develop their coordination. Make sure the platforms and ramps are sturdy but also have textured surfaces to prevent slipping.
- Tip: As they grow, they’ll need more space for climbing and exploring, so consider a cage that can expand or accommodate more accessories.
4. Safety and Chew Resistance:
Rats, even babies, love to chew. Their teeth grow constantly, and they’ll chew on bars, plastic, or anything they can get their teeth on. You’ll want a cage made from chew-proof materials, like powder-coated steel, to ensure their home lasts and stays safe.
- Tip: Avoid cages with thin plastic or poor-quality materials that baby rats could chew through easily.
5. Easy Access and Cleaning:
You’ll be cleaning the cage often, so make sure it’s easy to access. Cages with large front doors or removable trays make cleaning much simpler. Baby rats are also more likely to make messes as they explore, so you want a cage that’s easy to maintain.
- Tip: A cage with a removable base tray or plastic bottom will help keep cleaning to a minimum.
Top 3 Best Cages for Baby Rats
Now that you know what to look for, I’ll share my top picks for cages that I recommend for baby rats based on my own experiences and insights. These cages provide enough space, are safe, and offer an environment that promotes healthy growth.
1. MidWest Homes for Pets Critter Nation
Why it’s great: The Critter Nation Cage from MidWest Homes for Pets is one of the best choices for both baby and adult rats. It’s designed to provide a spacious, multi-level environment that’s perfect for energetic baby rats. The wide, easy-to-open doors make it simple to access your rats, while the sturdy construction ensures they stay safe inside.
- Size: 36” L x 24” W x 39” H
- Materials: Powder-coated steel
- Features:
- Two spacious levels with ramps for climbing.
- Removable trays for easy cleaning.
- Wide doors that make it easy to interact with and access your rats.
Pros:
- Spacious with multiple levels for climbing.
- Easy to clean with removable trays.
- Durable, chew-proof design.
Cons:
- Might be a bit larger than necessary for just baby rats, but it will accommodate them as they grow.
2. Ferplast Rat Cage (Cage Rabbit 100)
Why it’s great: The Ferplast Cage Rabbit 100 is a fantastic option for baby rats because it provides a cozy but spacious space that encourages them to climb and explore. The deep plastic base is great for containing bedding and minimizing mess, and the wire mesh is designed to keep baby rats safe with narrow bar spacing.
- Size: 39.5” L x 20” W x 21.5” H
- Materials: Wire and plastic
- Features:
- Deep base that holds bedding well.
- Large front door for easy access.
- Includes platforms and ramps for climbing.
Pros:
- Affordable and easy to set up.
- Safe with small bar spacing.
- Good for baby rats but large enough to grow with them.
Cons:
- Slightly smaller than some options for older rats.
3. Living World Deluxe Habitat
Why it’s great: The Living World Deluxe Habitat is another great choice for baby rats. It’s compact, easy to set up, and has everything you need for your little ones. The large front door and deep plastic base make cleaning easy, and the included accessories like the water bottle and food dish save you time when setting up.
- Size: 36” L x 18” W x 20” H
- Materials: Metal and plastic
- Features:
- Easy-to-assemble and secure with small bar spacing.
- Includes accessories like a water bottle and food dish.
- Spacious base for bedding and exploration.
Pros:
- Simple to assemble and set up.
- Affordable.
- Includes accessories to get you started.
Cons:
- Not as tall as some larger cages, which means less climbing space.
How to Set Up Your Baby Rat Cage
Once you’ve chosen the perfect cage for your baby rats, it’s time to create an environment they’ll love. Here’s how to set it up:
- Bedding: Use soft bedding like paper-based bedding or aspen wood shavings. Avoid cedar or pine, as their oils can harm rats. Fill the base with enough bedding to allow for burrowing and nesting.
- Platforms and Ramps: Add platforms or shelves that are low enough for baby rats to climb, but not too high to cause injury if they fall. Ensure ramps have textured surfaces for grip.
- Toys and Enrichment: Baby rats need lots of stimulation. Add tunnels, chew toys, and small boxes for them to explore. An exercise wheel (with a solid surface) is great for their physical development.
- Water and Food: Place food and water dishes in easy-to-reach spots. A water bottle is ideal to keep them hydrated without making a mess.
- Cleanliness: Change the bedding regularly and clean the cage often to maintain a healthy environment.
Want to Know if the Cage is the Right Size? Try the RAT Cage Calculator!
Not sure if the cage you’ve chosen is the right size for your baby rats? The RAT Cage Calculator is here to help! This easy-to-use tool helps you determine the exact amount of space your rats need as they grow. It takes all the guesswork out of selecting a cage, ensuring that your babies have the perfect home. Just head over to RAT Cage Calculator and make sure your cage is perfect for your little ones!
Conclusion
Choosing the best cage for your baby rats is crucial for their development and well-being. The right cage offers space to explore, safety from escape, and plenty of room to grow. Whether you opt for a spacious multi-level cage like the Critter Nation, a compact option like the Ferplast Cage Rabbit, or the all-in-one Living World Deluxe Habitat, the key is to provide an enriching environment.
And remember, if you’re ever in doubt about whether your cage is the right size, don’t forget to use the RAT Cage Calculator. It’s the best way to ensure your rats are getting the perfect home for a happy and healthy life. Happy rat parenting!