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Ferret Nation Vs Critter Nation
Dr. Abdul Basit Javed (DVM, RVMP)
Due to their distinct personality and appearances, ferrets are becoming increasingly popular as pets around the world. However, when it comes to ferret care one critical aspect is ferret housing.
In general, there are numerous housing options for ferrets on the market, but the Ferret Nation and Critter Nation multi-level cages made for small animals such as ferrets, rats, and other similar pets are the most popular.
If you are a new ferret owner looking for housing options for your pets or are unfamiliar with the Ferret Nation and Critter Nation cages, you have come to the right spot. This post will walk you through the similarities and differences between Ferret Nation vs Critter Nation cages and which one you should get, so read on.
What Are Critter Nation Vs Ferret Nation Cages?
The two main cage designs made by Midwest Homes for Pets are Ferret Nation and Critter Nation.
Ferret Nation cages are primarily designed to house ferrets, whereas Critter Nation cages are designed to house an array of small pets such as rats, chinchillas, and sugar gliders. Both cages are exceptionally strong, sturdy and high quality.
Both types of cages have a few similarities as well as some differences. The main difference between the two cages is bar spacing, door placement, and target species.
When choosing between Ferret Nation vs Critter Nation, consider the specific needs of your pets and your preferences along with customization options. We walk you through these now.
Comparison Between Ferret Nation vs Critter Nation Cages?
The following are some of the similarities and differences between the Ferret Nation and Critter Nation cages that you should be aware of before purchasing either one. Understanding the similarities and differences will allow you to make the best decision for your pet.
Similarities
Ferret nation and critter nation cages are actually pretty similar in design. The following are the main similarities between Ferret Nation vs Critter Nation cages:
Manufacturer
Midwest Homes for Pets manufactures both Ferret Nation and Critter Nation cages. Midwest Homes for Pets is one of the best names in pet housing, ensuring high-quality materials and pet safety.
Sturdy Construction
Both cages have been recognized for their strength and durability. They are constructed with high-quality materials such as metal bars and strong bases to create a safe and long-lasting home for your beloved pets.
Design
Both the Ferret Nation and Critter Nation cages have a multi-level design with multiple moveable levels and ramps. This design provides vertical room for pets to climb, explore, and exercise, enhancing their physical and emotional well-being.
Many of the units also have locking wheels for easy maneuverability as well as a foldable design for easy travel and storage.
Easy cleaning and accessibility
Each level of Critter Nation and Ferret Nation cages includes detachable trays. These trays make cleaning and maintenance simple by letting you remove and clean any debris, waste, or bedding.
Good ventilation
The metal bar design ensures that pets are well-ventilated in both types of cages, which is particularly important during the summer months. The bar spacing provides for optimal airflow throughout the cage, ensuring that your ferrets are in a healthy and pleasant environment.
Optional accessories
In the Ferret Nation and Critter Nation cages, you can add extra accessories that must be purchased separately. Shelves, ramps, covers, and other add-ons can be used to customize the cage and make it a more stimulating living place for pets.
Warranty
Both types of cages come with a 1-year warranty.
Assembly
Both Ferret Nation and Critter Nation cages require little to no tools to assemble. All you need to do is follow the instruction manual and you’ll be good to go.
Differences
There are some key differences between ferret nation and critter nation cages. The following are the notable differences between Ferret Nation vs Critter Nation cages:
Bar spacing
The major difference between the Ferret Nation and Critter Nation cages is the gap between the bars. Because both cages have been designed for housing different types of pets, bar spacing is provided accordingly.
Ferret Nation cages, designed specifically with ferrets in mind, have 1-inch bar spacing. Critter Nation cages have 1/2-inch bar spacing, ensuring that even the smallest animals, such as rodents, cannot escape.
Bar design
Bar design is another key difference between the two cages. Ferret Nation cages have vertical bars, which ferrets enjoy, but Critter Nation cages have horizontal bars, which are good for animals that like to climb.
Door layout
The layout of the doors is another difference between the two cages. Ferret Nation cages often have two doors, one on top and one on the bottom, allowing simple access to various sections of the cage. This design also allows for easy cleaning.
Critter Nation cages often include a single door that allows access to the entire cage. Reaching particular spots in the cage might require a bit of effort.
Target species
Ferret Nation cages are specifically designed to house ferrets which is why they have more bar spacing and vertical bar design. On the other hand, Critter Nation Cages are designed to house all small animals such as rats, chinchillas, sugar gliders and other small mammals.
Customization options
When compared to Ferret Nation cages, Critter Nation cages offer more modification possibilities such as self, ramps, covers, and so on. Some accessories are available for Ferret Nation cages, but they may not provide the same level of customization.
Ferret Nation vs Critter Nation Cost
Overall, Critter Nation’s lineup is generally a bit more expensive compared to Ferret Nation’s. This is directly due to the fact that more materials (higher quantity of more finely spaced bars) go into manufacturing these cages.
Ferret Cage Setup Ideas
Don’t forget to deck out your ferret’s home. While ferrets should be let out of their cage to run around and play every day, they will inevitably still spend a large amount of time in their cage. So be sure to make their space as comfortable as you can.
Ferret Nation Cage Liners
Ferret cage liners are a great way to keep your ferrets comfortable on padded surfaces while also containing messes. Ideally your liner should be raised up at the sides, and should be absorbent while non-leaky at the same time.
Hammocks and Tunnels
Hammocks and tunnels might be the two favorite things in the world for ferrets. This is probably due to the fact that basically all they do is sleep and play. Many hammocks come with 2 layers so they can sleep on top or inside of the hammock. Ferrets love this style. Check out our video on how to make your own ferret hammock if that’s something that interests you.
Setting up tunnels within your ferret’s cage is a great idea. This gives your ferrets a little stimulation and quicker access around the cage when they are locked in there. Tunnels come in all kinds of shapes and designs.
DIY Ferret Cage Option
Apart from Ferret Nation and Critter Nation, you can build high-quality DIY ferret cages at home. Indoor ferret cages, multi-story ferret cages, travel cages for ferrets, ferret mansions, and bookshelf cages are some of the fun and creative homemade ferret cage ideas.
Conclusion
After fully exploring ferret nation vs critter nation cages, ferret nation seems to likely be the better choice for ferret owners. Though very similar, ferret nation was design specifically with ferrets in mind. Because of this fact, some key small differences can make a big difference in your ferret’s comfort as well as your own.
Vertical bars, 1 inch bar spacing the double door layout and a cheaper design make them our choice for ferret owners. But let us know how you feel about it over at the ferret forum.
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