found a galvanized cage on CL. How do I rustoleum it?

[RattiegirlHM]

So I have found an awesome cage on CL for only $35! I really want to get it but it is galvanized. I know that I read here before about painting a galvanized cage, but I dont remember how. I tried the search and it wouldnt work. Google was also not helpful. Has anyone gotten a galvanized cage and successfully rustoleumed it? What type do you get? Does it work as well as the powder coating to not absorb smells? How long does it have to cure and where?
Thanks

[RattiesSix]

When I've done cages, I've got the rustoleum primer, painted it, let it cure for a couple days, then did the actual covering of pain. You have to let it cure for 2 weeks before use. I can't remember the exact brand of rustoleum that I got, it's been awhile

[Maltey]

The cage I did was originally powder coated but it had started to deteriorate so perhaps it won't be exactly the same but it'll be similar anyhow.
I washed the cage then sanded it thoroughly. This bit's really important as the paint needs something to grip on to so make sure you cover -everywhere-!

I used Rustoleum's Painter's Touch (in Purple!) and just sprayed it.

As far as the cure time goes I've read all sorts. One place suggested 3 weeks, the other suggested until the paint smell faded because that meant the fumes (which would be an irritant) had gone. I had planned to leave it a week, but the girls were going nuts only being left in one half of their cage (it was stacked on top) so I had to put it back after 2 days. I left it outside for those 2 days and it was rock solid and didn't smell and I didn't have any issues. Didn't seem to soak up urine and works the same as it originally did, only now it's purple!

[RattiegirlHM]

Thanks for the tips.  I will leave it outside and hopefully it wont take 3 weeks. I am going to be using it for one of the momma rats with her babies. They are all in a 20 gallon and are chomping at the bit to start climbing. I will definitely make sure there are NO fumes coming off the cage when they get put in.
I didnt know you could paint it in different colors. Im thinking blue or purple. Definitely.

[VampireSmeezeGirls]

Also, check into any local places who can do powder coating.  My place if you time it right can get a 48 hour turn around.  Also, given the price of high quality, rat safe paint these days, the powder coating for me is cheaper.