Everything Snake Cages

Buying snake cages can be a long journey as you contemplate the variety of cages that are available. And depending on the type of snake you have or plan on purchasing can have a huge impact on the type of tank that you purchase.

I would suggest that beginners buy their first snake cage. This way, you can find something that you know will be suitable for a snake. You won't have to try and figure out what items need to be included in building snake cages.

Experienced snake owners may still want to purchase a new snake tank as you may not have the time or desire to build your own. For you, there are plenty of options to choose from in regards to cages that you can buy directly.

As you prepare for your purchase, it is certainly worth your time to determine what is best for the type of snake that you have. For young or smaller snakes, you can certainly get away with a smaller tank. Smaller snake cages are better in this situation as small snakes don't like to feel too exposed. You can usually find a good ten gallon fish tank or a small 12" wide x 12" deep tank for a smaller snake.

With smaller and medium sized snakes (under 4 foot) you can usually find a tank at a local pet and or fish store. But for larger snakes, you may want to consider specialty cage builders for your purchase. With the specialty builders, you can find tanks that are several feet wide and/or tall to meet the needs of your snake.

For more experienced snake owners, building snake cages may be a better option. You have a better idea of hot and cold situations as well as lighting, hide, vegetation and other needs of your snakes.

For those of you that may not be experienced with building snake cages, here are some items to consider.

• Ventilation - You'll want to ensure that the cage is well ventilated. You can add screen mesh to the sides (wood style cage and/or to the top.
• Heat sources - You will want to ensure that you are able to provide heat into the cage either through under tank heating pads, heat lamps or both.

• Lighting - Make sure that you provide lighting into the cage. You do not need to provide lighting for all parts of the tank, but at least one side, and this may be from a heat lamp. If the snake tank is enclosed, then ensure that you provide a way to add light and protect that area with screen mesh so that your snake doeesn't get right onto the light and burned.
• Easy access - Cages can be built with doors that open in the front or a top that opens up (smaller snake cages). Make sure that it is easy for you to get in and clean the snake tank.
• Size - Ensure that you build a cage that will hold your snake. A good width or depth is long enough for your snake to stretch out and not touch either side. I understand for large snakes that this may not be as easy, then perhaps you should build a cage that is taller so that the snake still has room to stretch.
• Materials - You can build a snake cage out of anything that you would build furniture with. Of course, you'll want to see your snake, so glass is important. You can also use wood or plastics for building the frame of the cage. Don't forget mesh for ventilation and possibly items to allow the enclosure to be locked.
• Tools - Make sure that you have the tools to cut your wood, plastics and glass, or be prepared to purchase pre-cut items. You will also want to ensure that you have whatever tools necessary to assemble to snake cage.

Building snake cages can be enjoyable for those of you that love your pets and love building things with your hands. If you feel that you are ready, then you can have a cage better than anything that you could ever buy.