When selecting a cage for your ferret, there are several key factors to consider: space, durability, ease of cleaning, security, and enrichment. The HABUTWAY 50 H Metal Small Animal Cage is marketed as a versatile and spacious habitat suitable for various small animals, including ferrets. But how does it hold up when used specifically for ferrets? This detailed review will explore the pros, cons, and suitability of this cage for ferrets, helping you make an informed decision before purchasing.
1. Overview of the HABUTWAY 50 H Metal Small Animal Cage
The HABUTWAY 50 H Metal Small Animal Cage is designed for small pets like ferrets, chinchillas, and rabbits. It boasts a multi-level structure, sturdy metal frame, and rolling wheels for mobility. Additionally, it features removable platforms and ramps, which are crucial for easy cleaning and customization.
Key Features:
- Height: 50 inches
- Material: Metal with a hammer pattern finish for durability
- Multi-Tier Design: Several platforms and ramps for climbing
- Wheels: Allows easy movement and relocation
- Security Features: Latches on the doors to prevent escape
- Ease of Cleaning: Slide-out tray and removable ramps
Now, let’s break down how well this cage works specifically for ferrets, which have unique needs compared to other small animals.
2. Space and Comfort for Ferrets
Pros:
✅ Adequate Height and Space for Climbing:
Ferrets are highly active, requiring vertical space to climb and explore. This cage provides multiple levels, allowing them to move freely and engage in natural climbing behaviors. The different platforms help ferrets stay entertained, which is crucial for their mental and physical well-being.
✅ Multi-Level Platforms Enhance Exploration:
The platforms provide different areas for your ferret to rest, eat, and play. This setup helps prevent boredom, a common issue in ferrets that leads to destructive behavior.
Cons:
❌ Limited Floor Space:
While the vertical height is excellent, the actual floor space at the bottom is relatively small. Ferrets often enjoy digging and tunneling, which can be difficult in a cage with limited ground space. If you plan to use this cage for extended periods, you might need to provide an additional playpen for more room to roam.
3. Build Quality and Durability
Pros:
✅ Sturdy Metal Construction:
Ferrets are strong chewers, and cages with plastic parts can be easily destroyed. Thankfully, the HABUTWAY cage is made entirely of metal, which means it is chew-resistant and durable enough for long-term use.
✅ Rust-Resistant Finish:
The hammer-pattern finish helps resist rust and corrosion, making it ideal for ferret owners who need a cage that lasts for years.
Cons:
❌ Ramps and Platforms Might Be Too Slippery:
Some owners have reported that the included ramps and platforms are made of smooth metal, which can be too slippery for ferrets. This could cause accidental slips and falls. A simple fix is to cover the ramps with fabric or use rubberized grip tape to improve traction.
4. Safety and Security
Pros:
✅ Secure Latching Doors to Prevent Escapes:
Ferrets are known as master escape artists, so cage security is a top priority. The HABUTWAY cage includes strong latches on the doors, reducing the risk of your ferret escaping when you’re not around.
✅ Wire Spacing is Ferret-Friendly:
Unlike many small animal cages, this one has narrow bar spacing, preventing ferrets from squeezing through the bars and escaping.
Cons:
❌ Potential for Injury on Metal Bars:
Ferrets have delicate paws, and spending too much time on wire platforms can lead to foot injuries like bumblefoot (a painful condition caused by excessive pressure on the feet). To prevent this, consider covering the platforms with fleece liners or plastic mats for a more comfortable walking surface.
5. Ease of Cleaning
Pros:
✅ Removable Tray for Waste Collection:
The cage includes a pull-out tray at the bottom, making it easier to clean up litter and waste. Regular cleaning is crucial since ferrets have a strong odor, and a dirty cage can quickly become smelly.
✅ Detachable Ramps and Platforms for Cleaning:
The removable design of the ramps and platforms allows you to take them out for a deep clean, which is a big plus when maintaining ferret hygiene.
Cons:
❌ Urine May Leak from the Tray Edges:
Some users have reported that urine and water spills can leak over the edges of the pull-out tray, creating a mess. You can fix this by placing puppy pads or absorbent liners under the cage to catch any spills.
6. Mobility and Convenience
Pros:
✅ Rolling Wheels Make It Easy to Move:
The wheels on the bottom allow you to move the cage effortlessly. This is useful if you need to relocate your ferret’s habitat to a different room or take it outside for a deeper clean.
✅ Compact Enough for Indoor Use:
Despite its height, the cage is still compact enough to fit in most homes without taking up too much space.
Cons:
❌ Wheels May Lock Up Over Time:
Some users report that the wheels may become stiff or stop rolling after extended use. A bit of lubrication can help prevent this issue.
7. Customization and Additional Accessories
Pros:
✅ Easy to Customize with Hammocks and Tunnels:
Ferrets love to sleep in hammocks, and this cage allows you to attach hammocks, tunnels, and other fun accessories. Many owners have added fleece bedding, hanging beds, and even small tunnels to keep their ferrets entertained.
✅ Can Be Expanded with Playpens:
Since the base area is small, many ferret owners use this cage in combination with a playpen to give their pets more freedom.
Cons:
❌ Limited Built-In Features for Enrichment:
Unlike some specialized ferret cages (such as the Ferret Nation cage), the HABUTWAY model doesn’t include built-in hammocks, tubes, or play elements. However, you can easily add your own.
8. Final Verdict: Is the HABUTWAY 50 H Cage Good for Ferrets?
✅ Best Features for Ferrets:
✔️ Sturdy metal construction (chew-proof)
✔️ Multi-level design for climbing and playing
✔️ Secure latches to prevent escapes
✔️ Narrow bar spacing for safety
✔️ Removable tray for easy cleaning
✔️ Rolling wheels for mobility
❌ Potential Drawbacks for Ferrets:
✖️ Slippery ramps (needs added grip)
✖️ Wire platforms may cause foot injuries (cover them with fleece)
✖️ Small ground space (best used with an additional playpen)
✖️ No built-in enrichment (must add accessories)
Overall Rating for Ferrets: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5 Stars)
The HABUTWAY 50 H Metal Cage is a good option for ferret owners who want a tall, multi-level habitat at an affordable price. It offers excellent durability, security, and space for climbing, but it does require some modifications (like adding fleece liners and enrichment items) to make it truly ferret-friendly.
If you’re looking for a more spacious and customizable cage, the Ferret Nation cage might be a better investment. However, if you’re on a budget and willing to make a few modifications, this cage can be a solid choice for housing one or two ferrets.
