How to Eliminate the Odor of a Pet Rat
Male rats are notoriously more malodorous than females, according to the Rat & Mouse Club of America. If regular cage cleanings are insufficient for odor control, take your pet to a vet. He may have a medical condition, such as an abscess, that may cause unpleasant odors.
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Things You'll Need
- Pet carrier
- Vinegar
- Sponge
- Cloth
- Detergent
- Wood chips
- Air purifier
- Bowl
- Baking soda
Instructions
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Place your rat in a temporary home, such as a pet carrier, and remove all bedding from his cage. Remove the food and water dish, as well as any toys or pet furniture.
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Mix a solution of about half water and half vinegar. Dip a sponge into the solution and wring excess moisture from it.
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Scrub your rat's cage vigorously. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry completely with a clean cloth.
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Scrub the food and water dish with hot water and dish detergent. Rinse well and dry.
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Scrub any toy furniture your rat may have in his cage with the vinegar and water solution, then rinse well and dry.
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Replace the bedding in your rat's cage with fresh, hardwood shavings. According to the American Fancy Rat and Mouse Association, pine and cedar wood chips may be deadly for your pet rat. Add your rat's furniture and clean dishes back into his cage.
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Clean your rat's cage at least twice per week, as recommended by the American Fancy Rat and Mouse Association. If the cage becomes soiled enough to smell between cleanings, replace the bedding more often. However, you may not need to completely wipe down all surfaces every time. If the cage is not too soiled, simply replacing the bedding may be sufficient.
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Tips & Warnings
Place an air purifier next to your rat's cage to help filter odor.
Alternatively, place a bowl with baking soda next to the cage to absorb smells.
Open windows during warm weather to help remove odors.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit rat image by Oleg Sviridov from Fotolia.com
