Ferret Nation Modification tutorial with Measurements

[JR1030]

I have just the galvanized 1/2 by 1/2 stuff at the moment is that ok? Or should i get pvc coated if they sell it? I didn't see any when i was there though.

If you're going to leave it on for a long time, it will really start to smell.  If it's only for babies, and you can take it off when they grow up, then it should be ok for a little while.

[stoop14]

the pvc coated stuff wont smell?

[JR1030]

Coated wire is easier to clean.  Galvanized soaks up the pee smell and nothing will get the smell out.

[stoop14]

So the coated stuff is wire underneath the coat of pvc?  And do you guys recommend putting the wire on the inside or the outside of the cage? Are the ladders spacing to big for baby rats? should i put tap or something on it till they get bigger?  Also i'm having a hard time getting the ladder going up to the 2nd level to stay put it doesn't seam like there is a spot for it too attach too, i have the cage set up just like the picture.  The loops at the end of the ladder don't go around anything it just kinda leans up against the back of the cage:S

edit: Ok i just read that and its kinda of a rant, just i have so many questions.  Sorry about the way its written.

[JR1030]

Yes, the coated stuff is wire underneath.

I put the mesh on the inside, so they wouldn't get stuck in between the wire and the bars somehow.

You could cover the ramps/ladders with fabric if you're worried about their feet getting stuck.  More likely, they'll just climb up the mesh and ignore the ladder.

The ladder should hook to the shelf, not to the back of the cage.

[stoop14]

Yes, the coated stuff is wire underneath.

I put the mesh on the inside, so they wouldn't get stuck in between the wire and the bars somehow.

You could cover the ramps/ladders with fabric if you're worried about their feet getting stuck.  More likely, they'll just climb up the mesh and ignore the ladder.

The ladder should hook to the shelf, not to the back of the cage.

figured it out

[stoop14]

I started to modify my fn cage and well i was cutting the hardware mesh and i was following the squares to keep it straight and it ended up being so unstraight. The wire is like bent or something.  This happen too anyone els?

[jesirose]

I'm trying to figure out how you used 5 rolls of 2'x3'. I see needing 8 when I plan it out. Did you use scraps for some parts?

[JR1030]

I'm trying to figure out how you used 5 rolls of 2'x3'. I see needing 8 when I plan it out. Did you use scraps for some parts?

I think my rolls were longer than 3 feet...maybe 5 feet?  I did end up piecing two together for one back piece.

[cheerio]

I know this is a little late, but thank you so so so so much for the measurements.  I started on mine last night, and managed to finish the top (it was just me, and I'm a munchkin so it took me a stool and a lot longer) in 3 1/2 hrs. It looks great, unfortunately I could only get galvanized, but my guys don't tend to make a mess near the edges of the cage so I luck out there. I am waiting to do the bottom, I plan on it, which will allow me to let them run free, but I'm also waiting to see if my fiance will be giving me permission  to rescue a few babies that are due soon. ::fingers crossed: These specs helped me a lot with the cutting and arranging. Saved a lot of time not having to clip or re-cut because it didn't fit properly. I'm not the most engineering inclined person. Now to keep it clean and decorated! Thanks again 

[ladybuglilies]

Thank you thank you thank you    for posting these lovely instructions.  Off I went Saturday to Home Depot for zip ties and hardware cloth [green pvc coated] and I'm pleased so say I found it all by myself,  no mindless HD help needed.    Came home and cut the pieces to the lovely specs listed in this thread.  Last night hubby and I put them on in about 20 minutes. 

It's beautiful!  All ready for new babies!  Total time involved, including Home Depot run, cutting, trimming/sanding edges smooth, applying with zip ties and admiring work well done, just about 2 hours.  Woohooo!