GliderCENTRAL

Can't Decide on Which Cage to Buy

Posted By: OcHavac

Can't Decide on Which Cage to Buy - 03/29/15 04:56 PM

My cage is too small for my little guy and I am looking to get him a roomier cage. I decided that the best bet would be to spend the money on the right cage instead of choosing something that is just adequate. It appears that most people recommend the following cages:

1. Madagascar
http://www.exoticnutrition.com/masuglca.html

2. Congo Sturdy Cage
http://www.exoticnutrition.com/costsuglca.html

3. Critter Nation
http://www.amazon.com/Midwest-Critter-Nation-Animal-Habitat/dp/B001NJ0DAY

I've almost hit the trigger on the Madagascar Cage about 3 times but I am bothered by the statement that it is especially designed for Sugar Gliders. If this is true then why the vertical bars? The comment of it being specifically designed for Sugar Gliders was the #1 reason why I was interested in that cage. When I compare the pictures of the Congo Cage and Madagascar Cage they appear to be identical other than the size.

The Midwest Critter Cage has the horizontal bars but I the trays on the 2nd level does not appear to be optimal for the sugar gliders. Can they be removed and have the cage more open? Also, I saw a comment on Amazon that the ladders have broken legs of small animals and they should be removed or wrapped in fleece. Has anyone had this issue?

Now here is my last question. I know that most people here are anti PP but their cage does look like it is specifically designed for Sugar Gliders. It is an open design, has square bars that would be easy for the Sugar gliders to climb and is highly configurable. Vendor aside, I want whats best for my little one. The only downside I see with this cage compared to the others is the cost. Is there anything else that is concerning about this cage? Has anyone had any bad experiences?

http://www.sugargliderhelp.com/links/pag...ear-resort.html
Posted By: Onyxwulf

Re: Can't Decide on Which Cage to Buy - 03/29/15 05:11 PM

http://www.glidercentral.net/ubbthreads/...ion#Post1388009
Posted By: OcHavac

Re: Can't Decide on Which Cage to Buy - 03/29/15 05:23 PM

I did read that thread. Let me try specific questions

1) Does the vertical bar spacing in the Madagascar and Congo Cages make it difficult for baby gliders to climb?

2) Is there any difference between the Madagascar and Congo Cages other than size?

3) Is the tray in the center of the Critter Nation Cage removable? In the previous thread there was an "I think" answer

4) Are the ladders provided with the Critter Nation cages safe for sugar gliders?

5) Does anyone have any experience with the large PP cage? If it was available from a different vendor would you consider buying it?
Posted By: Terry

Re: Can't Decide on Which Cage to Buy - 03/29/15 07:20 PM

Hi, I think I can help answer your questions.

I've personally have owned the Madagascar cage and the Tall Sturdy, also made bay HQ which is the same size as the Congo only has 6 extra windows on the front that have to be secured with zip ties and does not include shelves and ladders. These are well made and sturdy cages that have large doors making it easy to access interior and add/remove toys/accessories that are large, such as the wheels.

The difference is mainly the "foot print" and overall space, so size really. The Madagascar has a metal drop pan, while the Congo is plastic. The bars between the large front doors I believe are a little different. I like the vertical bars between on the Madagascar, but prefer plastic pans as in the Congo.

Yes, I've heard/read that ladders can be a hazard, and really they don't need them. After learning they may be a hazard, I removed them from the cage and have never used them since.


On the Critter Nation, I have not owned that cage and I believe it has a larger foot print than the Congo sized cage. I've read great reviews on them and yes, the center shelf can be left out when assembling, creating a large space for your gliders. You do have horizontal bars, which may be more easily climbed, but in reality, my gliders have never had a problem climbing vertical bars and I have plenty of varied rest areas and climbing options that give their grip a break, the climb vertically when they want to, not because they have to. However, the doors on the CN cage are amazing for cleaning and access, but you will have to be very careful not to allow gliders to escape while opening the door(s). I also like to use silos instead of water bottles and I also use them at time for the staple nectar portion. They do not work with horizontal bars, so it rules that cage out for me personally, but that's my preference.

I would just avoid the PP cage all together, to me the dangers of the pvc coating in the past just make me nervous about taking chances. The three other cages you've been considering have been used by many with minimal to no complaints.
Posted By: OcHavac

Re: Can't Decide on Which Cage to Buy - 03/29/15 08:45 PM

Thank you very much Terry. I was not aware of PVC issues with the PP cage so I did a search and found some information. I think the midwest cage is the right one for me. Thanks again.
Posted By: Terry

Re: Can't Decide on Which Cage to Buy - 03/29/15 11:01 PM

You are welcome, that is a good choice, there are a lot of advantages to that cage from what I've read. There was a recent review that I've linked before, but I couldn't find it. But anyway, from the reviews and photos, it looks and sounds like a great cage.
© 2024 GliderCENTRAL