How to Build a Wooden Reptile Cage

Small reptiles are popular pets for many reasons. They are simple to care for, inexpensive to feed and don't require a lot of space. Oftentimes, reptile owners choose to build and design their own cages to meet space requirements or to provide custom housing for their scaly friends.

Things You'll Need

  • Cage plan
  • 1/2-inch marine plywood
  • 1/2-inch x 1/2-inch hardware cloth
  • 1/2-inch x 3/4-inch x 8-foot square wooden trim
  • Silicone caulk
  • small hinges
  • small screws
  • washers to fit screws
  • small latch
  • Circular saw
  • Scroll saw
  • Tape measure
  • Power screwdriver
  • Tin snips
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut the bottom, back and sides of your cage design out of the plywood, being sure to leave extra space to screw on the other sides and top. Cut a few circular vents from the sides, using your scroll saw. This will provide the solid walls for a basic square or rectangular cage. Screw these walls together with the small screws and seal the bottom cracks with silicone caulk so the bottom will not leak.

    • 2

      Cut the frame of the top and front of your cage from the 1/2-inch-by-3/4-inch-by- 8-foot square trim. The entire top frame (including any doors) should rest on the sides, front and back. The front frame (including any doors) should overlap the side pieces and sit on the bottom piece. Screw your frame pieces together using the small screws. Caulk between the bottom of the cage and the bottom of your front frame to prevent leakage.

    • 3

      Cut the hardware cloth to fit your frame, using the tin snips, and cut small squares that will fit over the round vents on the outside. Attach each large piece to the inside of the frame using small screws and washers. Do not use staples, as many reptiles like to climb and may pull the staples out. Attach the vent covers with smalls screws and washers to the outside of the cage. Be sure to cut your door cover separately, otherwise the door will not be able to open.

    • 4

      Hang the door on to the cage (according to your design) with the small hinges and attach the small latch to keep the cage closed. Allow caulk to cure 24 hours before moving your reptile in to its new digs.