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How to Choose a Small Pet’s Cage. A small pet’s home should be a safe, fun sanctuary,
with lots of space to move about and a cozy bed for relaxing. Think about what you’d
want if you had to live in a cage—and take it from there! You will need Small-pet books,
magazines, and websites for research and a pet-supply store, either real or online. Step
1. Always get the largest enclosure you can afford, even if your pet is tiny. Just like
larger animals, “pocket pets” need plenty of space to roam around. Step 2. Keep in mind
that small-pet cages fall into three main categories: Glass aquariums with wire covers,
wire cages, and plastic habitats. Step 3. If you have a “larger” small pet, such
as a rat or teddy-bear hamster, consider a glass aquarium that’s 20 gallons or bigger.
These provide enough room to run around, with space for toys and exercise wheels. A rat
will adore a two-level ferret cage, if you can afford it. Step 4. If you’re looking
for something inexpensive and easy to find, go for a wire cage with a plastic tray bottom.
The tray makes the cage easy to clean. Step 5. If you select a wire cage, make sure that
it has a solid bottom that can hold bedding and is comfortable for your pet to walk on.
Step 6. A mouse can squeeze through an opening no wider than a pencil. So if you choose a
wire cage for a mouse, make sure the cage’s bars are close enough together to contain
the little critter. Step 7. For gerbils, mice, and hamsters, consider a plastic habitat with
tubes and tunnels--but keep in mind that these cages are more expensive and a bit harder
to clean. Small animals are surprisingly good climbers and escape artists. Make sure to
put covers securely on aquariums and to fasten doors and latches of wire cages and plastic
habitats. Step 8. All rodents, big and small, love exercise wheels. Make sure your cage
is big enough to hold the right-sized wheel for your little friend. Step 9. Lug the cage
home and set up your pet in his nice new habitat! Did you know Rearranging your small pet’s
cage will prevent him from getting bored.