Rats may be small, but they need plenty of space to thrive. If you’re keeping three pet rats, a large, well-ventilated cage is essential. Cramped conditions can lead to stress, aggression, and health problems, so picking the right enclosure is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
This guide will cover:
- The best cage options for three rats
- Key features to look for
- Common mistakes to avoid
- A free tool to check cage sizes
Minimum Cage Size for Three Rats
The general rule is at least 2 cubic feet of space per rat. That means for three rats, you need a minimum of 6 cubic feet. However, a bigger cage is always better, especially if it has multiple levels.
| Cage Type | Dimensions (L x W x H) | Cubic Feet | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Size | 30” x 18” x 24” | 6 cu. ft. | Temporary use |
| Good Size | 36” x 24” x 36” | 12 cu. ft. | Comfortable living space |
| Ideal Size | 48” x 24” x 48” | 16+ cu. ft. | Maximum space and enrichment |
Not sure if a cage is big enough? Use this free tool: Rat Cage Calculator
Best Cages for Three Rats on Amazon
1. Midwest Critter Nation Double Unit (Best Overall)
Dimensions: 36”L x 24”W x 63”H
Bar Spacing: ½ inch
Levels: Two full levels, four ramps
Price: Around $250
This is the best cage for three or more rats. The double-level design gives plenty of vertical climbing space, and the full-width doors make cleaning easy.
Pros:
✔ Extremely spacious (perfect for multiple rats)
✔ Sturdy metal construction
✔ Large doors for easy cleaning and access
✔ Wheels for easy mobility
Cons:
✖ Expensive (but worth it for quality)
✖ Requires assembly (takes about 30 minutes)
👉 Check it out on Amazon: Midwest Critter Nation
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
Price: Around $180
This cage is affordable but spacious. It has multiple levels, good ventilation, and an easy-access front door.
Pros:
✔ Good size for three rats
✔ Includes platforms, ramps, and hammock
✔ Cheaper than similar large cages
Cons:
✖ Bar spacing is slightly wide (not great for small rats)
✖ Latches may need reinforcement
👉 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
This cage is great for active rats that love to climb. With six levels, it provides tons of vertical space.
Pros:
✔ Multi-level design keeps rats entertained
✔ Easy to move with wheels
✔ Affordable for the size
Cons:
✖ Assembly instructions can be confusing
✖ Ramps are plastic and may need replacing
👉 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 much easier than other models.
Pros:
✔ Pull-out trays for effortless cleaning
✔ Multi-level design with ramps and platforms
✔ Secure latches to prevent escapes
Cons:
✖ Plastic trays may wear down over time
✖ Requires more floor space
👉 Check it out on Amazon: Aivituvin Large Rat Cage
What to Look for in a Rat Cage
When shopping for a cage, keep these factors in mind:
✔ Bar Spacing (Prevent Escapes)
- Baby rats: ¼ inch spacing
- Adult rats: ½ inch spacing
✔ Multi-Level Design
Rats love to climb, so cages with multiple levels, ramps, and hammocks are best.
✔ Easy to Clean
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 6 cubic feet is not enough for three rats.
🚫 Wrong Bar Spacing – Gaps over ½ inch let rats escape or get stuck.
🚫 Glass Tanks – Poor airflow can lead to respiratory problems.
🚫 No Enrichment – A cage without toys, tunnels, and platforms leads to boredom and stress.
Final Thoughts
For three pet rats, the best cage option is the Midwest Critter Nation Double Unit, offering plenty of space, easy access, and durability. If you’re on a budget, the Prevue Hendryx Feisty Ferret Cage is a good alternative.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Minimum 6 cubic feet, but 12+ is ideal
✔ Multi-level cages are better for climbing and enrichment
✔ ½ inch bar spacing prevents escapes
✔ Easy-to-clean features will save you time and effort
Want to double-check if a cage is big enough? Use this tool: Rat Cage Calculator