Building my first C&C Cage

[Kenya]

Hello,

After stumbling upon this website, I have decided to build my own C&C cage for my hedgehog, Kenya. She already has a fantastic 4 level wood cage, but the height doesn't suit her too well. She is very overweight, and I was hoping the levels would exercise her, but she won't use them at all!

SO, I am looking to build a 2X3 cube cage, with a second level. I understand how to build the coroplast bottom, and how to snap together the first level of cubes. I'd like to add a second level to incurage some exercise, since she won't even use a wheel. I need the ramp to be wide, very gradual, and have a railing on it. I've got a 21.5" long ramp with a railing that i may be able to use (from her old cage) if the second level is only about 8" from the bottom of the cage. (This is the graduation that I think she needs.) Can someone advise me on how to add a large-as-possible second level (to still accomodate a gradual ramp) that has a saftey railing?

I might pick up some supplies tonight and start it! Hopefully hear from someone soon.

Thanks in advance!
Shauna & Kenya

[ittybitty98577]

huh, I use the white shelving, that many people use here. I use that for my ramp but It dosent have a railing. You can also use grids and just make an L shape out of them then attatch it. There are TONS of pics that have great Ideas for top levels and even ramps, well almost anything!

[Kenya]

I'm not sure what the white shelving is, ive never read about using it.

so could i add a full cube about 6" up from the group, attach it with cabel ties, and just cut space for a ramp and room for my hedgie to climb in? Then it would be an enclosed second level? Would cabel ties support two full cubes 6" up on the bottom cubes?

thanks.

[calymo]

I think your best option for making a ramp with a railway is to take multiple grids, and bend them to make a |_| shape...if you understand. Then attach them and put something on the __ part to protect your pet's feet. Sorry if it was confusing!!
Also- Check photo galleries, scroll down to and press ramps and steps, and look at everyones ideas for ramps!

[Kenya]

Thanks for the reply! I understand what you're saying. I think I've got it figured out now. Can't wait to buy my supplies and give it a try!

Shauna & Kenya

[i-love-nev]

Another idea for a ramp (which is totally enclosed) is to make 2-4 L shaped grids and attach them together to make a
"square" shape ramp.

[Kenya]

Okay, now ive got a ramp! my next question is, how can i make the top loft stable? it dips too much in th middle right now. my cage is 2X3 cubes, with a 1X2 cube loft (that i cable tied in 6 spots) my girl is a VERY large hedgie and theres no way this would be stable for her. Hope theres a easy solution!

Thanks
Shauna & Kenya

[gooberific]

You could try using a shelving bracket zip tied to the bottom of the upper level and the back of the cage. You can also use a dowel rod or pvc pipe cut to fit so that the center of the top level's floor rests on it (straight up and down like a pillar).

[Kenya]

Shelving bracket...hmm..that seems like a good idea. Is that one of those 'L' shaped things? it would have holes in it i could put cable ties through? that seems better then something id have to put on the floor of the cage, more space to run around on the bottom without an obstruction. I'll go to the hardware store today and see what i can find...Thanks!!!

[gooberific]

That's them exactly, to an L.

[MKruger]

Another idea for bracing it is what we did. Our cage was originally a 3-level that had doors on each level. We just took one of the doors apart and used the open grid for the brace on the bottom level to stabilize ours.