When setting up an enclosure for your small pets, choosing the right cage is important for their well-being. Two of the most popular choices for small animal habitats are the MidWest Critter Nation and Ferret Nation* cages. If you have an active pet that needs a lot of room to roam and play, the Critter Nation and Ferret Nation are both great choices.
Both Critter Nation and Ferret Nation cages feature full-width double doors that are designed to swing open fully, allowing easy access to every corner of the cage for cleaning, rearranging accessories, or interacting with pets. The cage is equipped with a secure locking mechanism that not only prevents clever animals from escaping, but is also easy to use. The simple latch can typically be opened with one hand, making it quick and convenient for pet owners to access the cage.
The versatile and spacious layouts of these cages allow for accessories like hammocks, climbing toys, and tunnels, which are perfect for pets that love to climb and burrow. Whether you opt for a single unit or double unit, both cages provide ample space to create a multi-level setup and simulate the natural climbing opportunities these animals would have in the wild.
Let’s look at the differences and setup ideas for each enclosure, along with some recommended products to make your pet’s cage feel like home.
Critter Nation Cages: Perfect for Social and Active Pets
Similar to the Ferret Nation, the Critter Nation cage is excellent for a wide range of small animals, including rats, chinchillas, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, degus, and more. These cages also offer multi-level spaces, allowing pets to climb, jump, and explore. The Critter Nation features vertical bars, providing a stable climbing surface for pets like rats and chinchillas. The vertical bars mimic the natural climbing experience for agile climbers that are adept at scaling vertical surfaces, such as trees, in the wild. With tighter bar spacing, the Critter Nation cage design helps prevent pocket pets from squeezing through the bars, ensuring their safety.
Ferret Nation Cages: Ideal for Active Pets
The Ferret Nation cage is a great choice for a variety of small animals, including ferrets, chinchillas, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, degus, and more. This multi-level cage is designed to offer plenty of space for climbing and exploring. The Ferret Nation features horizontal bars, making it easier for climbing pets like ferrets to scale the sides and move between levels. The Ferret Nation also has wider bar spacing to accommodate climbing and provide more ventilation.
Single Unit vs. Double Unit: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between a single or double unit depends on how many pets you have and how much space you need.
- Single Unit: If you have a single pet or limited space, a single story unit provides enough room for your pet to move around comfortably. It’s also easier to manage and clean for smaller setups. With the 1-story cage, your pet still gets 2 levels of exploration: a pan floor and a shelf, connected by a ladder.
- Double Unit: For those who have multiple pets or want to provide extra space, a double unit is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for pets that need more room to spread out or if you want to add multiple levels for more exploring opportunities. With the 2-story cage, your pet gets access to 2 pan floors and 2 shelves connected by ramps.
(Shown here is the Double Unit Ferret Nation Cage.)
Key Differences Between Critter Nation and Ferret Nation
| Cage | Critter Nation | Ferret Nation |
|---|---|---|
| Bar Type | Vertical Bars | Horizontal Bars |
| Bar Spacing | Tighter Spacing | Wider Spacing |
| Single or Double Unit | Both Available | Both Available |
Recommended Products for Both Cage Types
No matter which cage you choose, it’s important to have the right accessories to keep your pet comfortable. Here are some products that fit perfectly in both MidWest Critter Nation and Ferret Nation cages:
- Fitted Cage Liners: These liners are specially designed for the Critter Nation and Ferret Nation cages. They fit snugly into your pet’s cage, providing a clean and comfortable surface and padding for your little critter’s feet. They’re easy to remove and wash, making cage cleaning a breeze.
- Critter Box Reversible Fleece Cage Liner with Raised Sides: This liner is designed with raised sides to prevent bedding from spilling over the edges, keeping your pet’s habitat neat and tidy. It’s perfect for both Critter Nation and Ferret Nation cages.
- Disposable Cage Liners: For those who prefer a more convenient option, disposable cage liners are a great choice. Our activated carbon liners feature natural bamboo carbon technology to neutralize odor. When they’re soiled, you can simply toss them in the trash. They’re easy to replace and keep your pet’s cage fresh and hygienic.
- Hammocks: These hanging beds offer a great place for small animals to lounge, sleep, and play. Equipped with swivel clips, these hammocks are easy to install into any bar or grid cage. Our large hammock can even be used as a hide or to add an extra level to the cage, giving your furry friend even more room to explore.
- Chinchilla Cuddler: This plush toy is the perfect companion for any pet. Soft and snuggly, the Cuddler is made without small parts like buttons, beads, plastic eyes, or loose visible threads, making it pet-safe for your furry friend.
- Other enriching accessories can include: additional hideouts, tunnels, platforms, chew toys, climbing accessories like ladders or bridges, foraging toys, and more.
Conclusion
Whether you choose a Critter Nation or Ferret Nation cage, you’re investing in a high-quality, spacious habitat that will keep your pet safe and happy. Both cages offer features tailored to different types of small animals, so consider your pet’s specific needs when making your choice. With the right accessories, you can create a clean, comfortable, and enriching environment for your pets.
*This product is not manufactured or distributed by Mid-West Metal Products Company, Inc. owner of the registered trade mark MidWest Homes for Pets.