How to Build a Ferret Cage

ferret in a red cage
  • 2-4 hours
  • Beginner
  • 50-100
What You'll Need
Corrugated plastic sheets
Roll of rabbit wire
Utility knife
Scissors
Wire ties
Pre-made cage door
Clips and hooks
Litter pan
Hammock
Toys
What You'll Need
Corrugated plastic sheets
Roll of rabbit wire
Utility knife
Scissors
Wire ties
Pre-made cage door
Clips and hooks
Litter pan
Hammock
Toys

A sturdy ferret cage is vital to the well being of your ferret. Ferrets are natural escape artists, and building a cage they can't get out of can be tricky. If you create a cage that is fun for the ferret, with plenty of room to play and nest, your ferret will stay happy and safe.

Step 1 - Plan the Cage

You will need enough room in the cage for a litter box, nesting area, food and water dishes, as well as an area for play. Many people will choose to create multilevel cage systems. For a single ferret the cage should be at least 3' long by 2' deep by 2' high. Add an additional foot for each ferret you will have in the cage.

Step 2 - Cut the Corrugated Plastic

Corrugated plastic is popular for ferret cages because it is easy to work with. Cutting this will require nothing more than a pair of sturdy scissors. Cut the plastic to the size you will use for the bottom and sides of the cage. You want to allow about 3 inches of overlay when you cut. The sides will be constructed of both the corrugated plastic and rabbit wire. You will have 2 sides of wire and 2 sides of plastic.

Step 3 - Score the Plastic

You want to allow for enough overlap on the plastic used for the bottom of the cage to catch any litter that gets scattered. To do this you a utility knife to score the extra plastic you left when you made your original cut. Since corrugated plastic is easy to cut, you will want to take care not to cut through the plastic entirely. You are only scoring it so you can bend this upwards creating a box like shape.

Step 4 - Measure the Rabbit Wire

Measure out the rabbit wire and cut it to size based on your plans. You will end up cutting 2 identical pieces for the front and the back, and another piece for the top of the cage.

Step 5 - Putting Everything Together

Start assembling the ferret cage. Use the wire ties to secure the wire in place. It's a good idea to go overboard with the wire, this will make a more secure enclosure that is difficult for the ferret to escape from. You can install the pre-made door with wire to the front of the cage. You can also use clips or hooks to ensure the door will stay closed, but will be easy for you to open.

Step 6 - Inside Set Up

Place your metal litter pan in the cage. Attach any hammocks or other nesting areas you have created. You can cut extra pieces of the plastic to create ramps or additional levels for the ferrets to play. Add the toys to the cage. Once you have set the cage up and are sure there are no sharp edges anywhere, you are ready to introduce the ferret to their new play room. If you need to further protect your ferrets, here is our guide on how to build ferret houses.