How to Build a Ramp for an Iguana Cage

A pet iguana needs a lot space in its enclosure to roam, climb and bask. A good iguana enclosure should be very large---much larger than typical reptile enclosures sold in stores---so building your own is highly recommended. Whether you put together your own enclosure or simply want to adapt a pre-made habitat, building a ramp for an iguana cage is an easy place to get some practice making your own custom accessories for your pet iguana.

Things You'll Need

  • Iguana enclosure
  • Measuring tape
  • Wooden slab
  • Saw
  • Sandpaper
  • Indoor/outdoor carpet
  • Scissors
  • Staple gun
  • Carpet staples
  • Small wood strips
  • Hammer
  • Nails
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the number and size of the ramps you want to build, basing your judgment on how large the enclosure is and how much climbing your pet iguana needs to do. A very tall enclosure may need two or three ramps, while a short and wide enclosure may have just one iguana ramp.

    • 2

      Measure the diagonal where you want to install your iguana ramp, measuring from the base of the enclosure to the point where you want the ramp to end.

    • 3

      Buy material for the ramp, ideally a wooden slab that is 2 feet deep should be used for large enclosures, but smaller cages for a baby pet iguana may be fine with a wooden slab that is only 4-6 inches wide.

    • 4

      Cut the wood to the desired length for your iguana ramp using a table or hand saw.

    • 5

      Sand all of the sides and cut edges of the wood.

    • 6

      Use scissors to cut indoor/outdoor carpet to the same size as the wood, with enough overhang on each side to wrap around to the underside.

    • 7

      Affix the carpet to the wood using wood glue, then staple the carpet to the underside of the wood using a staple gun and carpet staples.

    • 8

      Cut smaller strips of wood to the width of the ramp, and nail onto the ramp over the carpet every 6 inches or so to provide a ladder for your pet iguana to climb if the incline is steep. Sand over the strips and nail holes before installing the ramp.

    • 9

      Wash carpeting with mild soap and warm water when it becomes dirty, and replace carpeting periodically when the surface becomes worn through everyday wear and tear.