Setting Up Cage for Small Animals

Introduction To set a proper home for any animal you should carefully choose the appropriate cage. This task requires special knowledge because there are many things that have to be considered. As for small animals, their needs differ much from other types. Hamsters, gerbils, rabbits and other representatives of small animals need special conditions to stay healthy and happy in the cage. So, if you are a newbie in this sphere or experienced person you always should consider some important things before choosing the appropriate cage.

Choosing the Proper Size of the Cage

The size of the cage is one of the most important factors to pay attention to. The cage should not be very big because it may be rather difficult to clean and take care about its condition. At the same time, it is important that your pet had enough space to feel comfortable. As a rule, hamsters need the cage that has the following dimensions – 24 inches long, 12 inches wide and 12 inches tall. The same requirements apply to gerbils except they need a little bit bigger cage (36 x 18 x 12).

The cage should correspond to the pet you plan to keep. When choosing the appropriate cage try to understand what kind of activities your pet does and what is the space he needs. For instance, active animals need the place where they can run and entertain themselves.

Material and Construction

Another factor that has to be taken into account when setting up the cage for small animals is the type of material used in manufacturing process and constructional features. The wire cages are the most popular as they provide perfect ventilation and can be cleaned easily. However, there are a lot of drawbacks to wire cages that you should be aware of. The main disadvantage of them is their vulnerability. They can be easily ruined by rats, cats, and other animals, and in addition, cages are exposed to corrosion.

There are cages manufactured of different materials among which the plastic one stands out. It is rather expensive but, at the same time, it provides perfect conditions for the pet to live and stay healthy. Another advantage of the cage of this type is durability. Moreover, cleaning the cage is quite simple because it resists to dirt effectively. Choosing the cage pay much attention to the gaps between bars of it, because they are extremely dangerous for animals.

Accessories and Toys

After you have chosen the proper cage it is necessary to think about additional things. You can buy various toys and accessories to make a living of your small animal much more interesting. Balls, tunnels and chew toys can be great entertainment for your animal. In this way, your pet will have less chances to experience stress and other problems connected with it. Try to find different types of toys for your animal to keep his interest towards them.

Cage Cleaning

Cleaning the cage of your pet has to be a regular procedure. As a rule, it should be done once a week because dirty environment provokes the development of dangerous diseases. While cleaning the cage it is advisable to get rid of old littering and replace it with new one. Also, disinfected the cage carefully and do not forget about the accessories.

Safety Precautions

Finally, you have to think about some safety measures when setting up the cage. First of all, the cage should be put somewhere stable so that it could not accidentally overturn. Besides, this place should not be accessible for children and other animals to protect your pet from possible injury. Finally, pay attention to the hygiene. Always remember to wash your hands before and after you take the animal from the cage.