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Can I use a display cabinet for a rat cage, and is varnish safe?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female | unspayed

I'm looking to make a rat enclosure out of a display cabinet/ book shelf. Do I have to find untreated wood? Could varnish harm them?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on November 2nd, 2016

You can use a pet safe sealer/varnish. Rats need to chew to keep their teeth from overgrowing, so be sure to provide plenty of chew toys so they don't turn to the wood. Do not use cedar, pine or yew as these can cause health problems. Allow an adequate drying time once the wood is sealed.

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