Top 10 rat cages

When it comes to rat cages, the larger the better! A good size cage with plenty of space will provide about 2 cubic feet of space per rat. The wire spacing is important too - no more than 1 by 2 inches for adults, and smaller for babies. The cages listed below meet or exceed the basic requirements for pair of adult rats, and were selected on this criteria (rather than personal experience).

1) Martin's Skyscraper (R-695)
This is a good sized cage at a decent price. At 30" x 18" x 36" it is a large cage and a ton of extra space is provided by two balconies and a full middle floor (three ramps total). All Martin's cages feature a drop in plastic pan. They are available in galvanized or powder coat finsishes and most are now available with a handy flip top lid. However, their balconies are made of wire mesh; the mesh is an acceptable 1/2" by 1/2" but should be at least partly covered for foot comfort.

2) Martin's Cages Rat Tower (R-690)
At 24" x 14" x 36" this cage is as tall as the first one, but is a little smaller in length and width. However, it also features a full middle floor and two balconies (and three ramps) so provides lots of additional space. Like other Martin's cages, available in galvanized or powder coat finish and with a flip top lid.

3) Martin's The Rat Retreat (R-685)
At 30" x 18" x 24" this is a good sized cage, made roomier by a full second level (and the ramp is designed with a landing so as not to be too steep). The cage has a full flip top for access to the top level, and a 3.5" drop in style plastic pan. Available in galvanized or powder coated, but not in a flip top.

4) The Rat Highrise (H-600HR)
While this cage has smaller overall dimensions (18" x 11" x 24") than some other cages here, it features two balconies as well as a full middle floor to make up for it. This gives your rats more extra space vertically while not taking up too much room, a bonus if you have a small home. Like other Martin's cages, it is availalable in galvanized or powder coat finishes, and has a drop in plastic pan. It is also quite inexpensive.

5) Martin's Rat Lodge (R-680)
At 30" x 18" x 24" with two balconies and two ramps, this cage is a decent size at a fair price. Not as large as some of the other cages, but still more than adequate for a couple of rats.

6) The Ruud Cage (R-699) - Martin's Cages
This is the roomiest cage I have found intended for rats - virtually a palace at 30" x 18" x 60" and featuring seven levels, six ramps, four balconies, and two full floors! A solid black pan forms the floor of the cage. Available in galvanized and powder coated metal. While more expensive than some of the above cages, it is quite reasonable for such a huge cage.

7) Martin's Aquarium Toppers
These are a unique way to convert old fish tanks into great rat cages. These sit on top of aquariums with a ladder tho connect the aquarium to the levels of the wire cage. The two story toppers (available for either 10 or 20 gallon tanks) would convert relatively small tanks into spacious 3 story cages. A major advantage to this style is that you can provide a nice thick layer of bedding that your rats will have a hard time kicking out all over your floor!

8) Corner Creek Acres Rat Cage
A reasonable size for a couple of rats, at 18" x 24" x 24" available in galvanized wire only. 4 levels/balconies with ramps provide extra play and climbing space. The cage features a slide out pan which is nice for cleaning but a bit shallow to contain the bedding. Once you enter the site look for the rat/hamster cage link.
Manufacturer's Site

9) The Rat Cabin (R-670)
Another inexpensive selection from Martin's, this cage is getting a little on the small size for a pair of rats at 24" x 14" x 24." However, there are two small balconies with ramps that do help provide extra floor space and exercise opportunities. A 3 inch drop in pan helps contain the bedding and the cage is available in galvanized or powder coat finishes, with an optional flip top lid.

10) Quality Cages Large Deluxe Rat Home
At 24" x 18" x 18" with a balcony and ramp with landing, this is an attractive cage that is available in powder coated metal (black or white) for a very reasonable price. A reasonable size for a couple of rats. Has a nice large front opening door. (Note: this manufacturer also offers some multi level cages which are a decent size and inexpensive, but they have built in wire wheels that are not suitable for rats).

...rat mansion ...theres no place like home...