As is the case for almost everything else to do with hedgehogs, there is quite a bit of controversy about what the best caging option is. In general the debate is narrowed down to four options: modified storage bins, tanks, C&C storage cube cages and wire small animal cages. Hopefully this quick break down of the pros and cons of each choice will help save you all you some stress down the road.
Steralite Storage Bins
Many breeders (me included) offer these types of cages pre-made for their customers. This can be a time, as well as sanity, saving method for those who have experienced the frustration of trying to cut these containers. One excellent site to check for those of you who are up to the task of creating your own custom cages visit: http://www.mihog.org/cages/index.phtml I have to admit, I have seen some pretty amazing set ups that are wildly creative and interesting to both the hedgie and their owners.
Pros
- light weight
- you can connect more than one together using PVC pipe to create very creative cage setups
- many come with a locking lid that keeps them safe from other pets and young children
- easy to clean and disinfect
- relatively inexpensive
- slippery sides prevent the hedgehog from climbing out
Cons
- Making a container cage is only cheap if you already have the necessary tools
- The brittle plastic can crack when it is being cut
- Even with the necessary holes drilled in, they do not have very good ventilation
- You need to buy very large containers to achieve the proper amount of floor space
- Only clear containers are suitable
- Under tank heaters are not suitable because they heat the plastic which causes it to release fumes
- Usually the container isn’t tall enough to have the lid on with the wheel in, many either leave the lid off (also extra ventilation), or cut a space for the wheel to come out
Tanks
Pros
- Under tank heaters as well as most other reptile heating devices are well suited to glass tanks
- Can get decorative backgrounds for the back wall
- Glass is relatively easy to disinfect
- Can save on costs by getting tanks from the classifieds
- Minimal assembly
- Can buy fitted wire mesh lids and lid locks to protect the hedgehog from pets and small children
Cons
- Proper sized tanks are VERY expensive
- Very heavy which makes it difficult to move or clean them
- Not very creative
Wire Cages
Pros
- Readily available at most pet stores
- Medium range price
- Usually pretty light
- Easy to clean and disinfect
- Minimal assembly acquired
- Easy to disassemble and move
- Can get cages with slippery sides high enough to prevent climbing
- Exercise wheels can be attached to wire sides
Cons
- Cages with a wire bottom are dangerous for a hedgehog’s legs, only solid bottom cages are safe
- Not very creative
- Under tank heaters can’t be used on cages with a plastic bottom
C&C aka Storage Cube Cages
This is a link to a video that shows one rather impressive C&C cage: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8APplpesTiU
Pros
- Can customize and create any set up you wish
- Corrugated plastic can be used to make the sides too slippery to climb
- Easy to clean and disinfect corrugated plastic
- Medium range pricing depending on where the materials are found
- Sturdy
- Can build a space below to store food, toys, meds etc...
Cons
- Hard to move, you will most likely have to take the cage apart and re-build it at the new location
- Has to be assembled
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