New Cage... Hedgie Proofing...

[holtzchick]

I just bought this cage http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.j ... Id=2753322 and now I'm having some difficulty hedgie proofing it! I've already lined the levels with fleece and blocked off the edges with c&c cubes. The only problem with this cage is that Penelope doesn't really use the levels and she has difficulty using the ramps so do I use those dryer vents there to make it easier for her. Will she ever use the levels or should I get another cage? Opinions/experiences?

Thanks,
Michelle

[Immortalia]

Some hedgies just don't like multiple levels and may refuse to use them. This is why it's usually recommended to first have the "ground" floor at the appropriate dimensions, and then expand upwards if you're feeling creative.

How steep are the ramps? Are the ramps enclosed as well? Falling just those few inches can(and has) break bones.
You can try moving the levels closer to each other, enclose the ramps to make it a nicer angle. You could try the vent tubes but be prepared to have to dismantle the tubes everytime you wish to take her out of the cage. Many like to sleep in there. Someone else was recently asking about hedgieproofing this cage, I just can't remember who it was.

Edit: found it lol they've got pics too. https://hedgehogcentral.com/forums/vi...hp?f=8&t=15126

[Nancy]

To be honest, I'd take it back and get another cage. It is not a hedgehog or owner friendly cage and will need so much work to make it safe, it isn't worth it. Also, it will be hard to heat unless you heat the whole room. If you have a hedgehog that will not use levels as many won't, it will be a waste of space.

[chelsea.kang]

It also looks like it would be a pain to clean and heat. I would opt for a Ferret Nation cage as those appear to be easily proofed.

If you want to build your own cage you could do a C&C cage. They're inexpensive for the square footage of cage space you get. Just be careful with younger hediges because some make an escape attempt and injure themselves trying to squeeze out (I just cut my chloroplast base so the walls were higher, preventing Marvin from reaching the bars). I've seen people do an add on deck to these cages too if you really want another level.

[holtzchick]

You know, I have already hedgie proofed the ramps and stuff but it was a total pain in the ass. I think I'm just going to get a basic level cage because I was opting for a ferret nation it just takes up SO much space! and... if she's not going to use the other levels I don't find the point in it. Good call with the advice will take the cage back tomorrow.

Thanks for all the help !

[holtzchick]

Hmmm... Returned the cage this morning, have Penelope in a temp c&c setup and probably going to purchase a Critter Nation tomorrow... its just esthetically pleasing to me and it's got quite a bit of space... ahhh I'm just frustrated with this whole cage mess!

[shaelikestaquitos]

Originally Posted by holtzchick

Hmmm... Returned the cage this morning, have Penelope in a temp c&c setup and probably going to purchase a Critter Nation tomorrow... its just esthetically pleasing to me and it's got quite a bit of space... ahhh I'm just frustrated with this whole cage mess!

You won't regret getting a CN. I've gone through 3 different cages, and the CN is definitely a keeper!

[holtzchick]

You know what I actually ended up doing... I went out and figured well... I COULD buy her a ferret nation BUT I would much rather buy her a cheaper cage and a lot of new accessories to go along with it.... So I ended up buying like one of those XL flat floor cages and I bought her a new hideaway, wheel and a reptile light and a timer so that she can have a proper lighting schedule. I usually have a lamp that I turn on in the morning and off in the evening but this is GUARANTEED to keep a set schedule to the minute. Rather than putting it on the floor I put it up on a shelf/chest type thing... It's actually a really cute set up and MUCH more practical I'm sure she'll be happy!!

Anyways, here is my final product!