semi-homeade?

[Dumbo-lov'n]

So...i still can not find a cage that is the right size I have an idea though, and i thought i would see if anyone could help me complete it or tell me if it even makes sense

I am thinking of ordering a custom size cage from Martins (or somewhere else, if anyone knows of anyone who will do custom sizes) - but getting it without the pan, and having it built to fit into a cat litter pan that is a good size.

Here is where my questions come...how can i secure the cage to the pan?- how have people with homemade cages done this? just with springs or bungees?

also, i am getting it 24inches tall... i can get whatever types of shelves in it i want...should i go for a full second level, or add a half shelf, or just have half shelves?..so many options! I need room for a hammock of course and a litter box, maybe a wheel and some other toys...so whatever ideas anyone has for the best use of space would be greatly appreciated

Thanks so much, and if anyone has any better ideas let me know

Sam

[Dearpie]

Honestly, I don't know of a large enough cat litter pan that would support a decent sized cage for two rats, unless I'm missing something.  Why are you special ordering a special sized cage from Martins?  Why not get one of their 'pre-sized' cages?  If your rats are girls, the R670 is 'sufficient' for two ...

[Dumbo-lov'n]

I have been given a specific spot i am allowed to put the cage on, by my family. it is 19 X 16, which i think  with the right shelving could be an appropriate size, however no one makes on this size. The 660 is a good length, but too narrow, and the 670 is a good depth, but too long. i thought i could get one that would be a compromise. This will be for 2 rats, possibly only one (I am considering one that does not get along well with others)

I know this might not be the ideal mansion that i would love to give my rats, and many of you do, but i am trying my best to give them a suitable, better than pet store purchased home, and plan to provide plenty of out time with toys and games.

i am looking for opinions to make the best out of the situation i have. i am hoping that with shelving and such i can make a great and suitable environment, but i want to make the most out of my possiblities and that is why i have come here for help.

[Scubbs]

I think you should talk to your family more.

19x16 is extremely small, especially for two rats.  Though I'm a bit of a cage elitist, that small of a cage is rather unreasonable; even if you had a lot of shelves, the ramps would take up a lot of the already-small-enough floor space, leaving hardly any room to move around for the poor rats.  Whether or not you let your rats out to play a lot isn't really the problem.  Regardless of that time out, most of a rat's life is spent in its cage.  They need room to run.  To jump.  To play fight.  To get away from the other rat(s) when they want. 

I suggest the R-695 or the Ruud.

[ratzrkool]

I second Succubus' idea, go for tall. However, about attatching the cage to the litter box- Martin's sells the spring thingys, they use for their cages, so you could buy a couple of them and then drill a few holes in the sides of the litter box and attach them. In my mind, at least, that would work perfectly.