Why can't you use clay cat litter for rats???

[lotsorats]

I use Papurr or yesterday news in my rats litter pans. However I use the clay for my new kitten and Mouse my free roam rat uses the kittens litter box even though he has his own. I was just wondering what the reason for not using the clay is? It is much less expensive and doesn't scatter like the other.

[Suebee]

Because it clumps. While a cat only uses its litter box to do its business, rats often live in and around their litter (why some choose to sleep there, I will never know), so their chances of ingesting it are MUCH higher, and they could choke on it.

Any clumping litter is a no-no for this reason.

[kikoalex]

Also, clay litter is SUPER dusty.  Ever pour a whole bag into a container?  WHOOF!  I nearly die scooping it out when the dust has settled!

[tabbyrat]

I second and third that.

If they eat any of it, or groom to much of it off their paws, it can cause a blockage in their digestive system which can be fatal.