A snake, aside from being an animal of the wild, is a pet for some. If you are one of these people who have snakes at home, you can make a snake cage for your pet. A snake cage is one way to show how much you care for your pet. Unlike other domesticated animals, snakes bring harm if disturbed. Hence, making a snake cage will not only house and protect your snake but also will help you protect other people from snakebite.
Constructing a snake cage is an easy and a very satisfactory project. Here are the ways to make a cage for your snake:
- Conduct research. There are different varieties of snake in the world. Each kind requires different attention. You have to consult the experts (like veterinarians) to know the needs and preferences of your snake. You may also surf the Internet to gather more information. Books may also be useful in this task. Snake owners could also be good sources of information.
- Create a plan. Provide a sketch for your plan. Your sketch will help you determine the materials that you will need in building your snake cage. Write down all the materials that will be useful for your snake cage. Your list may include lighting as well as mats for your snake.
- Select the building materials. Excellent materials for snake cage are as follows: MDF, melamine, and plywood (waterproof). Make sure that your chosen materials can keep moisture and maintain heat inside. You may also use an aquarium for smaller snakes.
- Consider the space. If your snake will grow to an enormous size, you have to design a bigger cage for it. You can do this to avoid building another snake cage in the future. Space management will also assure that your snake is comfortable in the cage.
- Check the cage’s location. Decide whether you will put the cage inside or outside your house. Consider that most of the time, snakes prefer to be alone and do not want to be disturbed.
- Choose the door type. The door will provide easy access to your snake cage. A sliding door is suitable if you do not have enough space in your house. Some snake owners also prefer drop doors.
- Secure the mat. Drill some holes at the back of the cage. The holes will be helpful in inserting electrical cords inside the cage to attach a heating mat. Use a tape or a melamine to secure the mat in the cage. You can avoid water damage by pouring silicone around it.
- Bring lighting tools together. Place the light on top of the cage. Make sure that the light will not fall once your snake is inside. You can secure the light’s position by using a lip and/or a hood. These tools will help you hide lighting cords.
- Increase the security. Most snakes will try to escape their cages. Usually, snakes will push lids to open doors. To prevent an escape, provide a sliding door lock and heavy lid for your doors.
You are done. Double-check the light, mat, and the security of your snake cage. If all elements are working properly, you may now introduce your snake to its new home.