DIY Rat Chew Tubes: Make Safe Homemade Toys
By Little Pet Warehouse | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: Product Reviews
Learn to make safe, budget-friendly DIY rat chew tubes at home. Discover material choices, step-by-step instructions, and when to buy commercial options.
Quick Answer
You can make safe, chewable rat tubes at home using plain cardboard tubes and non-toxic adhesive, but for guaranteed durability and safety, consider commercial options like Norfolk Industries' flaked paper or cotton chew tubes.
Why DIY Tubes? And When to Buy Instead
Making your own rat chew tubes is a budget-friendly way to provide enrichment, and it's a fun project that lets you customize sizes and shapes. However, homemade tubes may not withstand heavy chewing as long as commercial ones, and you must be careful about materials and adhesives.
If your rat is an aggressive chewer or you want the peace of mind of food-industry-sourced cardboard, commercial options like Norfolk Industries' chew tubes are a reliable alternative. They're designed specifically for small pets and are safe for ingestion.
Step-by-Step: Make Your Own Rat Chew Tubes
- Gather safe materials: Collect plain cardboard tubes (from toilet paper or paper towels), non-toxic glue (like white school glue), and optional safe decorations like plain paper or non-toxic markers. Avoid any tape, staples, or glossy printed cardboard. Always check that all materials are free of toxic inks or coatings.
- Cut tubes to size: Use scissors to cut the cardboard tube to a length that suits your rat's size—typically 4-6 inches for adult rats. Ensure the diameter is wide enough for your rat to enter comfortably. If the tube is too narrow, your rat may get stuck; always test with your hand first.
- Add chewable texture: To make the tube more engaging, you can wrap it with plain paper or create small holes for foraging. Use non-toxic glue to secure any additions. Avoid using any plastic or synthetic materials. The goal is to encourage chewing and foraging, so make sure everything is edible-safe.
- Let it dry completely: Allow the glue to dry fully before giving the tube to your rat. This prevents any risk of ingesting wet glue and ensures the tube holds its shape. Test the tube by squeezing it gently—if it feels damp, wait longer.
- Supervise the first use: Introduce the DIY tube to your rat and watch how they interact with it. Check for any signs of distress or if they try to eat large pieces that could cause blockages. If your rat shreds the tube rapidly, consider switching to a sturdier commercial option.
Commercial Options to Consider
- Pet Hamster Gerbil Mice Rat Chewy Tubes – Flaked Paper | Norfolk Industries: Norfolk Industries' flaked paper chew tubes are made from food industry-sourced cardboard, safe for ingestion, and designed to withstand enthusiastic chewing. This means you can offer a chew toy that's both durable and safe, reducing the risk of harmful ingestion compared to some homemade materials.
Pet Hamster Gerbil Mice Rat Chewy Tubes – Flaked Paper | Norfolk Industries - Pet Hamster Gerbil Mice Rat Chewy Tubes – Cotton | Norfolk Industries: Norfolk Industries' cotton chew tubes offer a different texture and are also made from food industry-sourced cardboard, providing a robust design for active chewers. The cotton variant may appeal to rats that prefer a softer or more fibrous texture, giving you a choice to match your pet's preference.
Pet Hamster Gerbil Mice Rat Chewy Tubes – Cotton | Norfolk Industries
