Ferrets can be observed in restful slumber for 15 to 20 hours a day. When they’re awake, they’re mischievous busybodies who — if left to their own devices — may become escape artists. A secure cage equipped with ferret entertainment can break the bank, but it doesn’t have to. With a few hours and some ingenuity, you can create a safe enclosure in which your ferret can sleep and play.
Step One
Measure what you'll need depending on how many ferrets your cage will house prior to shopping for your supplies. A minimum size of 2 feet high, 2 feet deep and 3 feet in length is required to house a single ferret comfortably. Add an additional foot to each length for each additional ferret.
Step Two
Measure the rabbit wire, using the measuring tape. You'll need four pieces, 3-by-2-feet, and two pieces, 2-by-2-feet. These will represent the front, back, sides, top and bottom of the cage.
Step Three
Use the wire cutters to cut the rabbit wire. File away any sharp edges, using the metal file. Lay out one piece of the rabbit wire. Using the wire cutters, cut a 6-by-6-inch piece from the center. This will create the opening for the cage door, which will need to be large enough to allow you to clean the cage frequently.
Step Four
Use the metal file to file away any sharp edges around the doorway that could injure you or your ferret. Cut a 5-by-5 inch piece of rabbit wire. This will become the door. File away any sharp edges on the door, using the metal file.
Step Five
Assemble your cage by attaching the largest wire pieces first. Lay out two of the 2-by-3 pieces of the rabbit wire you cut in step 2. Using J clips and the J-clip pliers, attach the long sides of the pieces together. Place a clip approximately every 3 inches for maximum security, keeping in mind that your ferret may be inclined to stage an escape. Repeat this step with the other two remaining 2-by-3 pieces.
Step Six
Attach the two connected pieces of rabbit wire together, using the J clips. When you're finished, you'll have attached the front, back, top and bottom of the cage. Lay the floor tiles in the bottom of the cage. If your floor tiles are 12-by-12-inches, you'll need six tiles. Attach the 2-by-2 sides of the ferret cage using the two remaining wire pieces. Secure with J clips using the J-clip pliers.
Step Seven
Attach the cage door using J clips. Run the clips down the right side of the door. On the left side, attach the spring and the S hook. This will allow you to close the door. Make sure the door is taught and your ferret cannot sneak out.
Step Eight
Create shelves and ramps with the wire shelving that your ferrets can climb and use to explore their cage. Attach them properly using J clips. If the angle prevents using a J clip, use a piece of the 20-gauge wire to secure the ramp to the cage, making sure not to leave sharp edges.
Step Nine
Hang your hammock by securing each end to the cage sides, making sure it swings freely. Your ferret could be seriously injured in the hammock if it hits the side of the cage when swinging.
Step Ten
Add plastic tubing throughout the cage. Your ferret will crawl into any tubing he can fit into, emerging only when he's ready. Choose your tubing based on the size of your ferret. If your ferret is young and growing, you'll need to swap out your tubing when he can no longer fit inside. Secure the tubing to the side of the cage using the 20-gauge wire. Make sure not to leave sharp edges that may injure your ferret.