Preparing Your Home for Baby Rats After Ordering from a Breeder

StormHaven Rattery
Jan 24
3 min read

Bringing home baby rats from a breeder is an exciting step, but it also requires careful preparation. These small, intelligent creatures need a safe, comfortable environment to thrive. Setting up your home properly before their arrival helps reduce stress for both you and your new pets. This guide walks you through everything you need to do to get ready for your baby rats.

Choosing the Right Cage

The cage is the foundation of your baby rats’ new home. It must be secure, spacious, and easy to clean.

Size matters: Baby rats grow quickly and are active. A cage with at least 2 cubic feet of space per rat is recommended.
Bar spacing: Choose a cage with bars spaced no more than ½ inch apart. This prevents the babies from escaping or getting stuck.
Material: Wire cages with a solid plastic base are ideal. Avoid aquariums or glass tanks as they limit airflow and can cause humidity issues.
Accessibility: Look for cages with multiple doors or openings to make cleaning and handling easier.

Preparing Bedding and Nesting Materials

Baby rats need soft, absorbent bedding to stay warm and dry.

Safe bedding options: Use Aspen shavings or Hemp. Avoid cedar or pine shavings because their oils can irritate rats’ respiratory systems.
Nesting materials: Provide shredded paper or soft cloth scraps for nesting. Avoid cotton or fluffy materials that can tangle around their tiny limbs.
Cleaning routine: Plan to spot clean daily and fully replace bedding once a week to maintain hygiene.

Setting Up Food and Water Stations

Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for growing baby rats.

Water bottles: Use a small animal water bottle with a metal spout. Attach it securely to the cage to prevent leaks.
Food dishes: Choose shallow, heavy ceramic or metal bowls that won’t tip over easily.
Diet basics: Baby rats need a balanced diet with high-quality rat pellets, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Avoid sugary or fatty treats.
Freshness: Change water daily and clean food dishes regularly to prevent mold or bacteria buildup.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

Baby rats are sensitive to temperature and noise.

Temperature control: Keep the room between 65°F and 75°F. Avoid placing the cage near drafts, heaters, or direct sunlight.
Quiet space: Choose a calm area away from loud noises and heavy foot traffic. This helps reduce stress and encourages bonding.
Lighting: Provide a natural day-night cycle with indirect light. Avoid bright or flashing lights.

Preparing for Social Interaction and Handling

Rats are social animals that thrive on interaction.

Handling tools: Have a small towel or gloves ready for gentle handling, especially during the first few days.
Bonding time: Plan daily short sessions to hold and play with your baby rats. This builds trust and helps them get used to you.
Toys and enrichment: Provide chew toys, tunnels, and climbing structures to keep them mentally and physically active.

Health and Safety Precautions

Keeping your baby rats healthy starts with a clean and safe environment.

Quarantine area: If you have other pets, set up a separate space for the new rats to prevent disease transmission.
Cleaning supplies: Use pet-safe disinfectants for cage cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia.
Vet contact: Find a veterinarian experienced with small animals before your rats arrive. Schedule a wellness check within the first week.

Planning for Growth and Changes

Baby rats grow fast and their needs will change.

Cage upgrades: Be ready to move them to a larger cage as they grow or add more levels and accessories.
Diet adjustments: Transition from baby rat food to adult rat pellets around 6 weeks old.
Social group: Rats do best in pairs or small groups. Consider adopting more than one to prevent loneliness.

Final Checklist Before Arrival

Cage set up with proper bedding and nesting materials
Food and water stations installed and tested
Quiet, temperature-controlled space prepared
Handling tools and toys ready
Vet contact information saved
Cleaning supplies on hand

Taking these steps ensures your baby rats will have a smooth transition into their new home. The effort you put into preparation will pay off with happy, healthy pets that enjoy exploring, playing, and bonding with you.