How to Build Your Own Reptile Cage

Reptiles have always been favorites of children. Climbing and slithering, with fast tongues and black eyes, these animals make unique pets. But they must be kept in housing that's specific to their breed. Commercial reptile cages are expensive, so many keepers make their own cages. Making a DIY reptile cage (also known as a vivarium) is simple and easy.

Things You'll Need

  • Large plywood sheet
  • Table saw
  • Wood screws
  • Drill and Phillips drill bit
  • Electric sander
  • Saw horses
  • Workbench
  • Rough-grain sandpaper
  • Fine-grain sandpaper
  • Eye protection
  • Polyurethane sealant
  • Clear silicone tubing
  • Utility knife
  • Plexiglas
  • 4 small bolts
  • 4 washers
  • 4 nuts
  • 2 hinges
  • 2 locks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a type of wood to use. Plywood is a cheap option. Avoid heavy wood; it will make the cage too heavy to move. If you use plywood, it's important to seal the wood. Plywood splinters can harm a reptile. The material is also toxic to snakes.

    • 2

      The length of the cage will vary depending on the reptile. As a general rule, there is no such thing as a cage that is too big. The length of the cage should be at least twice the length of the reptile. Width is generally around 16".

    • 3

      Use a tape measure to determine the cage dimensions. Refer to the diagram. Sides A and B should be identical. Sides 1 and 2 should also be identical. The back of the cage should be the same as the height of boards A and B and the length of boards 1 and 2. Board Z should be the length of boards 1 and 2 and 4" high.

    • 4

      Use a table saw or hand saw to cut out the six boards. Either use clamps to keep the wood steady or have a friend hold the board. Wear eye protection to avoid getting wood pieces in your eye.

    • 5

      Attach rough-grain sandpaper to a power sander and sand the boards until they are smooth. Avoid rounding the edges of the board. Once the boards are smooth, repeat the sanding process using fine-grain sandpaper. When finished, use a damp paper towel to wipe the dust off the boards.

    • 6

      Using screws, add board Z to board 2. Connect boards A and B to board Z. Add the back board to boards A, B and Z. Finally, screw board 1 onto boards A and B. Refer to the diagram.

    • 7

      Place clear silicon over the inner edges of the cage. Using wood sealer and a paint brush, seal the wood. Allow the cage to dry for at least 48 hours.

    • 8

      The Plexiglas will need to be cut so that it will fit over the front of the cage. The Plexiglas should overlap the edges of the cage by 1/2"; this will keep the door from falling in.

    • 9

      Attach the two hinges to the bottom corners of the Plexiglas using bolts. Place the hinge over the Plexiglas and use a drill bit to drill holes in the plastic. Insert the bolt so its head is on the "inside" of the cage. Put a washer on it and screw on the nut. Repeat with the second hinge.

    • 10

      Place the Plexiglas over the cage and use wood screws to attach the bottom of the hinges to the cage. The Plexiglas should be able to open and close smoothly. At the top corners of the Plexiglas, attach the two locks. How this is done will vary based on the lock used.

    • 11

      Add vent holes to one side of the cage. Use a drill bit to drill a few small holes in the top or side. Make sure they are too small for the reptile to squeeze through.