Would this be ok for a playpen?

pinkneon · 10-06-2016, 06:46 AM

I was just looking at this on Ebay, and wondered if I could use it as a playpen for Sweep. I like the fact it has a covered top, so could potentially be used outside in Summertime, but also means no climbing out! BUT I am wondering if he could get out from under it, as it doesn't have a bottom on it? Or maybe we could add a bit of wood to the bottom? I don't know if that is possible. I was thinking it could be a nice place for him to play safely whilst still getting lots of exercise as he does like my bed but I only let him play on a small area so he doesn't escape and so I think he gets bored easily!

Access Denied

EDIT : The link does work, no idea why it says access denied!

Pebbles82 · 10-06-2016, 10:45 AM

I thought about something like that once! It isn't cheap though. My concern is over what the wood is treated with if it's intended for outdoor use. They tend to be treated with wood preservatives which can be a toxic, especially if used indoors. It just says "treated" fir and plywood and waterproofed - so it's the chemicals in the wood that could be the issue.

I think this one looks quite good though. And it's almost half the price - but not as big.

Skyline Ranch Arizona Indoor Run | Free P&P £29+ at zooplus!

I've been tempted with one but my coroplast one is ok and I paid about £25 for the Coroplast!

CMB · 10-06-2016, 10:53 AM

Sweep could dig under the edge and escape. A base would stop this but then he wouldn't get to nibble the grass.

pinkneon · 10-06-2016, 11:08 AM

Thanks both.
Serendipity, that one you linked looks nice, but is too low. Mr Sweep would climb out of it in seconds! Would it be ok for indoor use maybe? Then it wouldn't need to be treated.
CMB, good point! Thanks. I guess if I was to use it then it would have to be with a base and for indoor use only

Those wire runs you can get for hamsters aren't tall enough. He would definately climb out. There are ones for rabbits which are taller but the bars are too far apart, but he'd probably still be able to get under it

I need to find something that he won't be able to get under!

CMB · 10-06-2016, 12:12 PM

Look at the diy playpen video. They used plastic panels to make a playpen. You can use more panels to make a bigger playpen. It doesn't have a roof. But a roof could be added
I wouldn't leave a hamster unattended outside as cats etc may scare them.

https://youtu.be/3SKo0B_X8io

You could also make the sides taller by getting more panels or using the rectangular panels, but it would more packs to make the playpen.

Cardboard boxes can be cut and slotted together to make a playpen.