Build question for Deguconvert or others!

[lohr500]

Hi there,

In a previous post we we were discussing creating additional levels for a metal cage using plywood bases with kiln dried pine edges.

I ordered a Liberta Explorer yesterday and it should be here tomorrow/Friday. I've also ordered one of Kat's wheels.

I want to replace the plastic trays with wood as discussed and also to add at least one extra level to give more flat running space.

I understand the concept of using pine edging around the plywood to provide a deeper bedding area, but what do you do on the intermediate levels where you have to cut a hole out to provide access from one level to the other?
How do you protect the plywood edges around the hole from being chewed?

There are two small intermediate levels in the Liberta cage made of metal with half height ladders leading to each. My idea was to convert at least one of these to a full sized level, but to do so I would have to cut a hole in the plywood to allow the ladder (and Degus!) to pass through. Won't they just be presented with a flat plywood edge to chew on?

Hope the question makes sense.

Thanks.

[Kat]

Hi,
I have this sort of thing in my P@H stack. I basically made a frame (like a 6" x 4" photo frame) from KD pine and used this for the edges of the holes.
I have noticed that one degu seems to enjoy chewing this bit so it will have to be replaced soon. Its taken him a good few months to make this dent in it though.

Kat
X

[Maravilla]

This is how we protected these holes (10x15 cm are enough):


You can also use wood which can be replaced if chewed.
Degus normally chew a lot but I know as well some who don't even chew their wooden running wheel!! Strange animals! Mine belong to the extreme chewers ;D.

[lohr500]

Thanks to both of you for your replies.

The bevelled aluminium edges look like a good solution.
Did you just glue them in place Maravilla?

I have a bevelled edge cutter saw jig so they would be easy to cut to size. I am sure I have seen profile sections like that in our local DIY store.

If not, it may be a case of looking out for some on the scrap yard

[deguconvert]

You've been answered well. I would have said the very same thing.

[amie]

Excellent answers!!!! I would have asked the very same question myself when I start building. Now I have no need to

[Maravilla]

Aug 31, 2011 20:46:20 GMT lohr500 said:

The bevelled aluminium edges look like a good solution.
Did you just glue them in place Maravilla?

We used silicone suitable for aquaria. At least here, normal silicone contains fungicides so we always recommend the special one.

BTW, there is no need to cut the edges in 45° angles. It's just that we wanted it to be really nice and beautiful. For the degus, it's all the same.

[lohr500]

Thanks for the info on the glue Maravilla.

Cage didn't arrive today but I am hoping it will be here tomorrow.
Already cleared a space for it and I went to the DIY store today to check out plywood, kiln dried pine, aluminium sections etc so i know I can get all the materials needed.

I have also ordered one of Kat's wheels, so hoping that will be with us soon as well.

I need to start searching to find some one with Degu's for sale in the Keighley/Skipton/Colne area of the UK. I know P&H have them, but if possible I would rather buy from an experienced keeper