How to Build Your Own Iguana Cage

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By Cherie Brunetti
eHow Contributing Writer

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(3 Ratings)

Building a cage from wire can be simple and cost-effective

Building an iguana cage out of wire is simple and inexpensive. Using wire does not require having a workshop or power tools. The best type of wire to use is 16 gauge galvanized steel. The following article will discuss how to build your own iguana cage out of wire.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

16 gauge galvanized steel wire
Wire cutters
Needle nose pliers
Heavy gloves
Dremel tool

How to Build Your Own Iguana Cage

Step 1

Use wire cutters to cut the circumference of the desired size of your cage.
Step 2

Bend the wire in a circular shape until both ends meet.
Step 3

Use needle nose pliers to bend the ends of the wire, binding the edges together.
Step 4

Use wire cutters to cut a square from the cage to allow for a door. (The cut-out square will serve as the door itself.)
Step 5

Use a Dremel tool to grind down any sharp edges. Be particularly mindful of the area cut out for the door.
Step 6

Bend small sections of the cage wire into rings. Use these rings as hinges for the doorway. Attach a hook to a spring to serve as a latch to keep the door closed.

Tips & Warnings

Wire is less expensive and lighter than glass or plexi-glass.
Iguanas enjoy climbing on the wire.
The wire permits plenty of air flow into the cage.
Many people use chicken wire to build their cage. However, chicken wire has a lot of sharp, little edges on it. Run your hands over the wire to locate all of the sharp edges and file to a smooth finish.
Do not use wire screening for cages. It is very abrasive and weak.
Wire cages allow heat to escape. You will not be able to maintain an overall warm habitat for your iguana in a wire cage. You can use heating pads and basking lamps to keep the iguana warm.