How to Make a Wire Mesh Chinchilla Cage

Chinchillas need a lot of space to move about, as well as levels and ramps to jump on and run up and down. Many commercially available cages for rats and ferrets also work for chinchillas because they provide these features. Build a homemade cage out of mesh, but include a wooden frame to make sure it is sturdy enough to handle multiple levels and devices.

Things You'll Need

  • Galvanized welded mesh
  • Wood boards
  • Heavy duty staples
  • Metal litter tray
  • Metal file
  • Sand paper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Build a wooden frame for the cage. Manufactured cages are often at least 3 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 3 1/2 feet tall, and this serves well for one adult chinchilla. Your cage should be similar in size, so construct your wooden frame to follow these measurements.

    • 2

      Cut the mesh into six panels for the top, bottom, front, back, and sides. Cut each one to the proper size for the area it covers. The panel that serves as the front of the cage should have a door cut into it as well. This door needs to be large enough for an adult-sized chinchilla to pass through it easily. It should also be large enough for you to remove items from the cage if necessary. The door should be hinged and include a locking mechanism.

    • 3

      Attach the mesh panels to the wooden frame. Use the staples to attach the mesh to the outside of the cage. If any sharp points come through the wood, file them away so that they cannot potentially cause harm to your chinchilla. Leave several inches of open space under the bottom so that the litter tray can be placed underneath the mesh floor.

    • 4

      Add shelves, ramps, and wooden hide boxes to the cage. Place these features at varying levels so that your chinchilla is able to jump pn them and get exercise. Make sure they are all securely attached to the wooden cage from so the weight of the animal does not cause them to fall. Sand all rough edges away so they are not likely to cause injuries.