A rat cage needs to be at least 4 cubic feet in size (add 2 cubic feet for each rat more then 2 rats) with a base at least 30 inches by 18 inches and height with large levels - but larger then this is better
1 inch bar spacing is too large for smaller rats, plus small predators (such as ermines) can enter homes, get into rat cages, and kill rats - cages with large bar spacing need to have the outside of the cage covered with hardware cloth purchased from a hardware store - it must be attached to the outside of the cage, not the inside as edges may be sharp.
Any wire floors in rat cages need to be covered by a solid flooring - a thick piece of linoleum cut to fit, a large piece of coroplast, and dollar store dish drain trays cut to fit and attached with cable ties are examples of things people can do.
You should be aware that starter cages sold by pet stores are a waste of money because they are starter cages, are too small, and will need to soon be replaced.
The Midwest critter nation cage is the recommended cage for rats.
Other cages may not be large enough, may not have a large enough base, may not have small enough bar spacing.
I know many people who purchased other cages and eventually spent the money to buy a critter nation.
You can try to find a midwest critter nation cage second hand on Kijiji etc - Otherwise see amazon.ca and
Flower Town Chinchillas - One-Stop Shopping for all your Small Pet Supplies
The martins R695, powder coated with flip top lid is a great cage if you cover the floor and balconies so that they are solid BUT it is made in the USA and if shipped to Canada there are huge brokerage fees …… in the past I have had this cage mailed to store in the USA and then driven across the border to pick cages up …. but that is not a possibility now.
Cages and all the supplies required (as well as outfitting a safe play area for rats) are very expensive but actually are nothing compared to the vet bills and medication costs. Rats are prey animals and hide illness so when you notice there is a problem you are in a medical emergency and need vet care immediately. Girls should be spayed for health reasons if you have access to a good vet with the knowledge and experience to do it safely.
Please see our reference thread
REFERENCE Thread - Read Only and
Thinking of getting a rat? Things to consider