How to Build a Soft Pet Crate

Although they are animals, pets shouldn't have to suffer in inhumane conditions under human care. To that end, having a safe crate to keep your animal in -- with reasonable comfortableness -- shouldn't be a tall order for pet owners.To build a crate from scratch, the first thing is to decide what material you're going to use. Pet crates can be made out of aluminum, steel, iron, wood or even wire. For purposes of this article we'll show our how to build an insulated wooden box with ventilation holes.

Things You'll Need

  • Plywood
  • Wood nails
  • Hammer or electric drill
  • Nylon material
  • Circular saw
  • Hole saw
  • DryFur cushion
  • Door latch
  • Door hinges
  • Glue
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose an exterior material that works for both you and your pet. Metal can get awfully hot in sunlight. An interior that is too soft can be torn easily with an animal's claws. When deciding on the material you'll use in building your box, think about your pet's characteristics. Is your animal hyperactive? Does it suffer a lot of nicks and cuts because of its frenzied movement? All of this needs to be considered when you are choosing an interior to insulate the pet crate with. Bubble wrap is not a good option, but felt might be.

    • 2

      Measure the size of your pet before you cut any wood. The last thing you or Fido needs is a crate that's too small. If you try to stuff your pet into something that is too restrictive and uncomfortable, it may get downright hostile on you. The size of your animal shouldn't be the sole determining factor when considering how big to make the crate. If you want to be able to board an airplane with your animal the pet crate has to meet certain Federal Aviation Administration requirements, size being one of them.

    • 3

      Cut the wood to your specifications using a circular or hand saw. Adjoin the wooden pieces together by hammering or drilling wood nails in the corners. Once you've assembled the wooden sides of the crate, everything should be done except the door. Screw a simple door latch onto the left side of the front of the crate. Secure two small door hinges to the other side and place your door on the front of the crate. Your frame is done.

    • 4

      Measure and cut the nylon in sheets to fit the three sides of the crate perfectly.You can glue the nylon in place but it's better to hang it on a tack, or hook it so that it can be removed whenever you want your pet to get some sunlight. To ensure that your pet has a soft landing for its feet, lay a DryFur pad from a manufacturer inside the crate's bottom. DryFur pads come in several colors and styles, including an absorbent one just in case your pet soils inside the crate.

    • 5

      Add a handle on top of the crate by drilling screws in the top and fastening a cart luggage handle onto it. Once you secure the screws on the exterior, you have completed your soft pet crate and your animal will be able to travel in comfort and safety.