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Rat cage selection guide – dimensions, bar spacing & safe design
A good rat cage is more than just "big enough." Rats are clever climbers who create routes, like to rest high up, and enjoy sleeping together. This selection guide page explains what you really need to consider: floor space, height with safe routes, bar spacing (important for young/smaller rats), and a design that works in practice. We'll link you directly to the appropriate categories, so you can choose the right components right away.
Choose a cage that suits your group and decor. Browse rat cages and combine them with cage accessories .
Rats create 3D "routes." Build stably with platforms and ladders , and tunnels and pipes .
Peace in the group = choice. Combine hammocks , cabins , and soft sleeping areas .
1) Size & layout: what works in practice?
Rats primarily need space to move around and multiple levels with secure connections. When choosing a cage, ensure sufficient floor space, good ventilation, and a layout that you can customize with routes and rest areas.
- More rats = more space (and especially: more rest and escape areas).
- Work with zones : eating/drinking, sleeping, playing/foraging and toilet area.
- Practical : A cage that is easy to keep clean works best in the long run.
Tip: Start with the cage and then add the appropriate components step by step. Start here: Rat Cages .
2) Bar spacing: especially important for young/smaller rats
The correct bar spacing prevents escape and unsafe situations. Young rats and smaller rats generally require a finer bar spacing than adults. Therefore, always check the product specifications and tailor your choice to your group.
- Young rats / small rats : choose a cage with finer bars.
- Adult rats : more options, but safety and routes remain paramount.
- In doubt? It's better to choose safe (more comfortable) than "just a tad too loose."
3) Safe design: routes, safety nets and stability
A rat cage is ideal if you think about routes . Rats love to climb, but falling can happen. Therefore, create "stopovers" and safety nets with hammocks, platforms, and bridges. Secure everything you hang up and check it regularly.
- Routes : plateau → tunnel → plateau (not one long jump).
- Safety net : hammocks under higher routes.
- Stable : no wobbly ladders or loose platforms.
Shop directly: Platforms & ladders · Tunnels & tubes · Cage accessories
4) Sleeping places: more options = more peace and quiet
Rats like to sleep together, but they also like to be able to alternate. Therefore, we recommend more sleeping places than rats . Combine soft (hammock/basket) with shelter (house/tunnel), and add nesting material that's gentle on sensitive airways.
- Hammocks for high and sheltered sleeping.
- Houses for permanent resting places.
- Soft zones (cushions/baskets) for comfort.
View: Rat hammocks · Rat houses · Nesting material, cushions & baskets
Maintenance: how to keep a rat cage practical
Checklist: Rat cage that “works”
Before you order or redecorate, go through this list:
✔ Sufficient floor space + multiple levels
✔ Bar spacing appropriate for your rats (especially for young/small rats)
✔ At least 2–3 routes (plateaus/tunnels) without “major pitfalls”
✔ Multiple sleeping places (hammock + house + soft zone)
✔ Separate toilet/fixed toilet corner
✔ Something to do daily: foraging, climbing, demolishing (safely)
Safety warnings
- Check suspension points and ropes regularly for wear and tear (safety + escape prevention).
- Avoid long, steep routes without stopping (falls happen faster than you think).
- Use only rat-safe materials (no sharp edges, no peeling coatings).
- When in doubt about the bar spacing, choose a safer (finer) option and check the product specifications.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Rat Cages
What's more important: height or floor space?
Both, but start with sufficient floor space and then make height safe with routes. Rats love to climb, but above all, they need stable movement.
How many sleeping places do I need?
Better to have more than just rats. Choice brings peace: hammocks + houses + soft areas work best.
What helps against odor?
A fixed toilet corner with a toilet and absorbent floor, plus low-dust floor covering and a fixed cleaning routine.
Where do I start shopping?
Start with Rat Cages and add hammocks, houses, tunnels and platforms.
Why buy rat cages and furnishings from DRD Rodent Shop®?
✔ Specialist since 2011
✔ Ordered before 5 PM = shipped the same day
✔ Delivered from our own stock
✔ Smartly selected range for well-being & safety
