Rat cage - too small?

[pixiemishka]

Hi there!! I'm in a bit of a dilemma at the moment. I don't know whether my cage is too small for my two girls.
It's a Marchioro Rene' 72 measuring 72cm length, 43cm depth and 41cm height.
I've used one of the cage calculators for volume (2 cubic ft/rat) and the result is 2 rats if space used wisely, but if I change cubic ft to 2.5 it changes to 1 rat. I've also tried the calculator (Ratzrus site) that takes into account the shelving in the cage and with the shelving I have, it comes up with 1 rat. I can put 2 shelves in, which changes it to 2 rats comfortably but the problem is...I can't fit the wheel in if I do that. I can't take it out, one of my girls absolutely loves the thing!
So what should I do? Shall I get another cage to sit on top of my current cage and modify so it makes 1 cage? Or should I buy a new cage, but bigger? Can anyone help me? I just want the best for my girls.

[Leeann]

Pixie, Is it possible for a picture of the cage?

I am hopeless when trying to picture in my mind cage sizes,

Some cages are just not suitable for rats at all, while others though smaller may be ok.
Alot depends on size of rats, how much out time they get, even what is in there.

I did a sort of measurement against my cage and to me, the measurements you give, look like it should be ok for 2 rats, but don't hold me to that, lol.

Not much of a help yet, I know, but see if you can get a pic up and we will be able to see more,

[flame]

I think all you need is more height by the sounds of it (thats just a personal choice though maybe hehe)

Definately try and post a pic for the experts ;-)

[callistoluna]

If the cage is too small, do you let your rats out for excerise? If they just sleep in it and are allowed to free range then it should be okay.

[pixiemishka]

I'll put some pics up as soon as possible. Well... as soon as I figure out how to do it anyway!!

[flame]

I reckon theres a thread how to do it isnt there?...

[pixiemishka]

I think I've got to put pics up on Photobucket, then download to here. Haven't got around to it yet though!! I'll try. My little brothers dominate the computer! Lol!

[chickweed]

it sounds fine to me.