Homemade Glider Cage

Question:
 I would like to attempt to build one. I have 6 foot lengths of bamboo (only 4 but am going to pick up more). I want to use the bamboo for the look of it. I don't know if bamboo is ok for the gliders, so if not, it will just be on the outside as the frame. If it's safe, I'll use it inside as well. Anybody got any ideas as to how to go about it? I want the main cage to be 6 feet in height (the height of the bamboo) and I want a large tray on the bottom and I want it with wheels at the bottom....I've been trying to look on the internet for ideas but am not seeing what's in my mind. Also, as it's Sunday, I can't call any business's but I want rubber coated mesh wire like the real sugar glider cage I have. Does anyone know if regular hardware stores carry this?


I'm just trying to get an idea of where to start right now. I have lots of African art etc in the house and bought this bamboo but had no idea what to do with it. I think it would be awesome to incorporate it into an awsome luxury cage for my furries so I can remove the old rat cage they have now.......and maybe finally get my ratty, lol.


For a tray at the base, I was thinking I might be able to get a large try like they use in restaurants and then go by that for the dimensions? What do you think? The wheels are obviously so that I can move it to clean behind and under and also, I would like to have them in my living room but during the winter that's no good because it gets chilly at night if I have the cat door in the bathroom window (which is off the living room) so it needs to be mobile (twice a year anyway).


Oh, the bamboo is in different colours and measures about 4-5 inches around...hmmm that doesn't sound very pretty but it really is and I really want to use it. The colours are very natural deep colours, I have red, yellow, green and brown at the moment but will pick up more. That should actually be my first step as the fabric store where I scored them was almost out and it's not a regular item I don't think.

Any input will be much appreciated!!!!


Answer:
 Ok... I don't know how safe bamboo is for sugar gliders, specially color-treated one. But I do have a couple of pages that might help you. These pages give ideas on how to build iguana-rat cages out of pvc pipe. I think that you could use a similar approach to build your cage. These cages are really awesome, I hope that this sites help you. 8) Good luck, and be sure to take pictures of the cage when it's done!!! (if you can also take pics of the process and what you did, as I would like to do one in the far away future and want some ideas besides the ones I've found on the internet.)

http://www.geocities.com/RainForest/9008/pvccage.html
http://www.lizardcages.fws1.com/
http://arbreptiles.com/cages/tips.shtml#materials


Answer:
 Thanks padfoot, the second site has a lot of pics. We used to have a big iquana like the one's pictured. I miss him. I will try to get pics once I get started.


Answer:
 when i made my cage i found plastic version of the wire 1/4" holes it was 3' high and a roll of 15' for something like $15. its mega easy to work with and if your gliders arent chewers it might work.


Answer:
 Where did you get it ratlady? I don't think mine are chewers. I mean apart from tearing their feather dusters apart, I don't think they really chew.....


I wonder if the cats would have a go at it....?


I couldn't stop to see if I could purchase more bamboo today because the snow had started and I'm driving the truck again and I'm very nervous in it when it's slippery so I headed straight home. I will try to remember to stop tomorrow.


Answer:
 i got it at kents and when i dimantled my cage i washed it and i have it tied in a roll in my basement.
they also have pipe that can be used for a frame, the stuff for covering wires not the plumbing pipe thats pretty cheap.


Answer:
 I'm wondering if the plastic wire stuff will be strong enough. Now that I'm looking at the bamboo and the fact that I'd like it to be the full 6' height, I'm thinking I might be better off buying stronger stuff.


I picked up 8 more lengths of the bamboo today. These pics show the colour, at least I hope they will, they're awful small. I haven't started any plans as of yet though.


Answer:
 Sorry they wouldn't upload or something..


Answer:
 Just got a reply from my glider breeder and she suggested just using the bamboo on the outside, she thought they might have been treated with pesticides to get into the country. Never thought of that, I was worried about the dye or paint. I must now try to find some natural bamboo for the inside or something unique.......The ladies at the fabric store can't seem to tell me anything about the bamboo so I better play it safe. Just means the extra pieces I bought for the inside can go towards a more steady frame.


Answer:
 Ok, so if you read my post in the rat section, you know I'm soon to get two babies. I think I need to get to work on this cage so they can have the big rat cage that the gliders are in.......any pics of home made cages would truly be appreciated and any ideas for supplies too.