Safely cover wire shelf

[emojimom]

I would like to make use of a wire shelf in my hamster's bin cage because it's the perfect height and size, but I know he shouldn't be walking on wire. Can anyone recommend a safe way to cover the shelf to make it safe? I could get something else, if I must, but it fits so perfectly, I'd like to make it work.

[AmityvilleHams]

I wouldn't bother with wire shelving.You can't be sure what sort of toxins(may be labelled as non-toxic to humans but still toxic to hamsters,so non-toxic is by no means a reliable way to determine safety!)are in the paint so it just isn't worth the risk.

However,DIY platforms can be made to custom dimensions using wooden dowels,Elmer's glue(not just any glue,this is the only glue I've found so far to not use animal parts in their glue and publicly state so),and hamster safe untreated wood.You can also make a popsicle stick rail or edge,which can be done with the standard apple sticks or willow sticks or similar sticks sold in most pet stores

[cypher]

If it's just plain wire, not coated with anything then just cover it with cardboard.

[CMB]

A hemp/grass mat or hammock should be ok. Or a safe piece of wood. They could be cut to size to sit on top of the wire shelf.

[emojimom]

Great ideas! It's just plain wire, so I will, for now, cover it with cardboard and work on making something better asap. Thanks!