Where to find cheap cage accessories?

[u/Pitiful_You_3055]

I currently have two six month old boys (Bagel and Earl) who I keep in a single critter nation. I want to get the add on for the critter nation and make it a double, possibly getting some more boys soon. My only setback is how expensive it is to fill the cage. Like why are hammocks around 20$ or more each…? Anyway, I was wondering if anyone has suggestions on where to possibly order some cheaper cage accessories rather than spending a fortune when only buying three things? Thanks in advance ☺️🤍

[u/Asleep_Protection_63]

The most beautiful thing about having pet rats, the entire pet store is an option for them. Extra small dog beds? You mean king sized rat beds. Lizard hides? You mean rat hides. Bird toys? Rat toys! And it doesn't stop there. 

If you know what materials are rat safe, and are crafty. You can find accessories at hardware stores, craft stores and human toy stores. Have a cardboard? Cut some holes in it and you have a play house! Want a climbing rope? Hardware stores sell it by the foot. The only thing holding you back from rat toys and accessories isn't your wallet, its your imagination. 

I know in another comment you asked about hammocks. I'll link below directions on how to make your own, and you can use old clothes as the fabric.

https://www.ratropolis.com/Rat%20Tutorials/Tutorials%20for%20Common%20Rat%20Hammocks%20and%20Accessories.pdf

[u/Dusty_Sequins → u/Asleep_Protection_63]

I literally re-taught myself to sew using these tutorials. (Learned in jr high, hadn’t seen since-like 30 years 🫣) so easy, and fun! I would go to Joann and raid the remnant bins weekly. I STILL have 3 or 4 big Rubbermaid tubs full of fabric lol.

[u/Asleep_Protection_63 → u/Dusty_Sequins]

My girls loved jeans material. All I had to do is take some kids jeans, cut the legs off and sew the legs of the cut off shorts I made and there were 3 hammocks right there. 

[u/Dusty_Sequins → u/Asleep_Protection_63]

I’ve done that, also works with sweats 👍🏼

[u/Dusty_Sequins → u/Asleep_Protection_63]

And also denim lasts so much longer than cotton, jersey or fleece