Creating a Better Rat Cage
So you have invested in a lovely rat cage for your furry friends, you will want to add more to their home. Your rats will get very bored in an empty cage. Some people do not realize how important it is to provide a stimulating environment, as they think the time they spend with their rat is enough, but you are not around constantly. Don’t worry there are loads of ways to make your rat’s home fun.
There is nothing cuter than a rat in a hammock and since pet rats love to cuddle up in snuggly fleece, it is a great idea to add one to their cage. These are readily available in pet stores and online and if you don’t have the money you can make your own. Just cut a square of soft fabric out of an old rag and make a hole in each corner. Then it is easy to use string to attach the hammock to the cage, enabling your rats to lounge around to their hearts’ content.Other cuddly things like the arms of an old jumper or a hood off a disused jacket will make lovely beds for your pets. It is important to regularly replace these rags, or give them a good wash.
Rats love to climb and if you have let them out already you will have seen them climbing your furniture. That is one of the reasons why wire cages are better then tanks. Young rats in particular will climb up the side of the cage and even swing along the roof having the time of their lives. Old aquarium tanks are useless for housing rodents, as they become a hot bed for bacteria. There is just not enough air flow. This can cause respiratory infections, which can be very severe.
We all like to escape from the world now and again and rats are no different. It is easy to give your rats places to hide away, such as old cereal boxes, or pieces of clothing. Maybe even an old canvas bad. Tunnels can be made out of an old jumper sleeve or bought from a pet store. Give your rats loads of bedding to play with. They will enjoy rearranging it and snuggling down at night. You should never use shavings, as the dust can cause illness and even death in rats.
A multi-level cage is something to consider, especially for younger rats, as they love to climb. A single level cage may be more suited to elderly rats. Untreated wood is a great addition to the cage as your rats can climb on it and keep their teeth in shape by gnawing on it.
Of course it depends how large your rat cage is as to how much you put in there. If your rat’s cage is very big you can fit in a lot of fun stuff, perhaps even some water for them to play in. Just enjoy the process of making your rat’s home. Imagine you were the one living there. The more effort you put in, the more your rat’s will love it.
Once the home is all set up, you should be proud of yourself, but be sure to put aside time every day to play with your rats. rat health and happiness depends not just on their environment, but their social stimulation.
