The Rat-astrophy

I built this cage for my rats from scratch using hardware cloth, cable/zip ties, and a big rubbermaid container for the base. The dimensions are 19" x 13" x 30"

There is:
1 half level
1 full level
1 small perch-type level

Everything I used cost around $60. Here's a breakdown:
Home Depot
Hardware cloth (2' x 5' with 1/2" squares) x 3 @ $10 each ($30) (had some left over from the third roll)
4" cable/zip ties 100ct x 3 @ $4 each ($12)
4 pack of S hooks x 2 @ $1.50 each ($3)
Spring latches (4 pack of 2 long, 2 short) $3.50
2 pack of latch closures $2.50
That comes out to about $50 plus tax

Target
Tupperware tub...I think its a 4gallon-ish?...agh, cant remember...but it was only $3!!

Craft Store
10pc End Connectors (in the beading/jewelry section) x 2 @ $1.50 ($3) (this is what I used for the door hinges instead of J hooks...couldnt find those anywhere but those would work too, you just need J-Hook pliers)

Here is the progression of the cage:

Originally the cage was only 24" high, but then I realized this would not be enough space for 2 full grown male rats, so I added an extra 6" to the top, hence why it looks a little funny. Now I had plenty of room to hang hammocks too! =D


I made all of the hammocks and shelf liners by hand as well. The fabric, 1 yard of cotton print and 1 yard of fleece, cost about $12 with both on sale =) Don't forget the grommets to hang the hammocks with! The kit was about $3. 


Here's some final close-ups:

A second setup, with new liners and hammocks!