Full Cheeks Cage Extension

Your Pet’s Home Just Got Bigger!

As a pet owner, you always want to provide the best possible care and living environment for your furry (or scaly) friend. One way to enhance their habitat is by investing in a Full Cheeks cage extension. This handy add-on gives your pet more room to play, sleep, and explore!

But with so many options, sizes, and styles of cage extensions available today, how do you know which one is right for your needs? Don’t worry, I’ve done the research for you and created this comprehensive buying guide.

Whether you have a hamster, gerbil, guinea pig, rabbit, reptile, or other small animal, this guide will walk you through everything you need to consider when shopping for a Full Cheeks cage extension. Let’s get started!

What Exactly is a Full Cheeks Cage Extension?

A Full Cheeks cage extension is a modular add-on component designed to literally “extend” the amount of living space in your existing small pet enclosure. It easily attaches to your current cage to provide extra square footage.

Full Cheeks extensions are created specifically to fit popular cage brands like Critter Nation, MidWest, and Kaytee. But many can be adapted to work with other enclosures too.

The extensions are made of durable yet lightweight materials like powder-coated steel wire or transparent polycarbonate plastic. They also include multiple access doors to easily reach your pet.

Key Benefits of Adding a Full Cheeks Extension

There are many advantages to investing in a Full Cheeks add-on unit for your pet’s home:

• More space to play and exercise – With an extension, your pet has extra room to run around and engage in natural behaviors. This enrichment is vital to their health and happiness.
• Additional area for supplies – An extension provides more space to add food dishes, hideaways, toys, and other accessories. This helps prevent crowding.
• Improved ventilation – Extensions allow for increased air circulation which keeps the habitat cooler and fresher.
• Easier cleaning – The additional square footage makes it simpler to fully clean your pet’s home. You can also section off areas to keep your pet tidy while you sanitize their space.
• Customizable setups – Modular extensions allow you to create unique multi-level layouts with ramps, platforms, and tunnels. Get creative!
• Gradual introductions – For new pets, an extension permits a gradual adjustment to their enclosure by initially limiting access until they get acclimated.
• Flexible sizing – Extensions come in a range of sizes to fit any cage footprint and accommodate pets big or small.

Key Factors When Choosing a Full Cheeks Cage Extension

Once you’ve decided to purchase a Full Cheeks extension, there are several variables to consider in order to select the best model:

Compatibility with Your Existing Cage

• Double check that the extension will properly attach to your current enclosure brand, style, and dimensions. Most are designed for exact cage fits.

Interior Floor Space

• Choose an extension size that sufficiently expands your pet’s living area – bigger is usually better. Measure dimensions against your pet’s needs.

Materials

• Opt for durable and easy to clean materials like powder coated steel or transparent plastic. Also ensure openings are sized appropriately for pet.

Access Points

• Look for models with multiple doors to easily reach your pet for interaction and cleaning. Locks prevent escapes.

Aesthetic Appeal

• Select an extension that matches or complements the looks of your existing cage setup. Avoid clashing styles.

Ease of Cleaning

• Check that the extension floor pulls out or opens fully for easy cleaning and litter changes. Deep plastic trays prevent mess.

Ventilation

• Well-ventilated models allow generous air flow to keep the habitat fresh. Look for wire-sided and wire-topped designs.

Price

• Cage extensions range in price based on size, materials, and features. Set a budget but don’t sacrifice quality.

Ratings & Reviews

• Choose popular well-rated models that other pet owners endorse. Watch for issues like durability concerns or design flaws.

Where to Buy a Quality Full Cheeks Cage Extension

Finding a well-made Full Cheeks extension from a reputable source is key. Here are some top recommended places to shop:

• Online pet retailers – Large e-commerce sites like Chewy, PetCo, PetSmart, and Amazon offer a huge selection of add-on units with convenient home delivery.
• Specialty pet stores – Shop employee recommendations and see extensions in person at local specialty pet supply shops.
• Direct from manufacturer – Buy directly from top extension brands like MidWest, Critter Nation, and Prevue Hendryx for custom fits.
• Cage builder sites – These sites like CagesWorld and Giant Squirrel allow you to design complete custom cage plus extension setups.
• Pet classifieds – Search for new or used extensions locally on sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to save.

Which Pets are Suited to a Full Cheeks Extension?

While most Full Cheeks extensions are marketed for small mammals, they can suit a wide range of animals when sized properly:

• Rabbits – Dwarf breeds do best with enclosures a minimum of 6 square feet or larger thanks to an extension.
• Guinea Pigs – Extensions allow room for pairs or small groups of guinea pigs to have 10 square feet or more of space.
• Ferrets – Active ferrets thrive when cage extensions provide extra play areas and floor space.
• Chinchillas – These energetic hoppers need lots of room to move, so extensions are ideal.
• Rats – Rats are intelligent and playful, so they appreciate ample cage space extensions offer for toys and activities.
• Hamsters – An extension gives Syrian hamsters extra room to burrow and forage.
• Gerbils – These busy burrowers enjoy using an extension’s floorspace for tunneling.
• Mice – Extensions given mice more area for climbing ramps, platforms, tubes and running wheels.
• Hedgehogs – Extension space permits hedgehogs room for a wheel, hidings spots, and exploring.
• Reptiles – Well-ventilated extensions can supplement vivs for certain lizards, snakes, turtles, frogs, and more.
• Birds – Some brands make special cage extensions suited for housing small bird species.

Key Features of Quality Full Cheeks Cage Extensions

The best Full Cheeks add-ons have these top features:

• Deep base tray – Contains messes and allows for extra bedding. Sliding trays simplify cleaning.
• Locking door latches – Prevent clever pets from opening doors and escaping.
• 360-degree accessibility – Doors that open on all sides make pet interaction and cleaning easy from any angle.
• Modular design – Adjustable panels permit creating unique multi-level layouts.
• Ramp or tube connectors – Hardware allows attaching ramps or tubes between levels.
• Tip proof – Wide bases and secure floor trays prevent accidental tipping.
• Gnaw guards – Prevents rodents from chewing and escaping through plastic bases.
• Alignment tabs – Allow quick simple alignment and attachment to existing cage.
• Textured ramps – Prevent slippery surfaces allowing pets to comfortably climb between floors.

Handling Full Cheeks Cage Extension Assembly

Assembling your new Full Cheeks extension need not be complicated or stressful. Here are some tips for smooth sailing:

• Carefully unpack all components and inventory against an included guide to ensure no parts are missing right away.
• Read the assembly instructions fully before beginning. Understand each step before acting. Watch for warnings.
• Have any required tools ready – usually just pliers or a screwdriver. Power tools are rarely needed.
• Set aside adequate time for assembly. Don’t rush! Expect an average extension to take 15-30 minutes to assemble fully.
• Clear an open well-lit large work surface ideal for maneuvering parts during assembly.
• Follow directions precisely step-by-step. Double check alignments before locking anything together tightly.
• Getting help from a second person makes the job easier. They can hold pieces steady while you work.
• When needed, gently tighten screws gradually in a crossing pattern to evenly distribute tension. Don’t strip screws!
• Add doors, shelves, ladders, and accessories after the frame is fully assembled solidly.

Be patient and methodical for smooth assembly. Celebrate the new expanded habitat you’ve created for your pet!

Connecting the Cage Extension Securely

Once assembly is complete, properly integrating the extension with your existing cage is critical. Fortunately, Full Cheeks units make it easy:

• Thoroughly clean the cage and extension first to eliminate odors and germs when combining spaces.
• Check that the extension’s opening aligns precisely with the cage’s door or wall opening. Measure for a flush fit.
• Align pre-drilled holes in the extension with those along the cage’s edges.
• Use bolts, screws, or clips provided to securely anchor the extension into place against the cage.
• For plastic units, self-adhesive Velcro strips bond extensions to cages seamlessly.
• Test stability by gently rocking the unified structure. It should feel totally solid with no movement.
• Use rubber mallets or wood blocks if gently needed to adjust alignment for an optimal mated fit.
• Finally, open interior access doors between the cage and extension to create one unified interior space.

Follow manufacturer instructions closely for a solidly integrated extended habitat ready for your pet!

What Owners Are Saying in Full Cheeks Cage Extension Reviews

Current users of Full Cheeks extensions give high marks in product reviews. Here’s what pet owners highlight:

• “Easy to assemble following the directions. Took maybe 20 minutes.”
• “Works perfectly combined with our existing cage. Looks like it was designed as one piece.”
• “So much more room now for our hamsters to play and burrow. They love it.”
• “Great quality for the price. Very durable too after months of use.”
• “Having doors on all sides makes cleaning their space a breeze now.”
• “Our guinea pigs have so much more space to zoom around now!”
• “Instructions were clear and all the hardware was included for assembly.”
• “Looks modern and sleek in our living room. Matches our Critter Nation cage perfectly.”
• “Now I can divide up areas in the extension for litter, food, and sleep.”

Key Materials to Look For in Full Cheeks Cage Extensions

Full Cheeks enclosures utilize steel, plastic, or a combination of both for optimal durability:

• Powder coated steel – Steel wire cages allow maximum ventilation. Durable powder coating prevents rust. Easy to clean.
• Plastics – Clear acrylic or polycarbonate plastic maximizes visibility. Waterproof and chew-resistant.
• Metal & plastic combo – Best of both worlds. Steel frames for strength and plastic panels for see-through visibility.
• Untreated steel – Avoid raw steel which can rust. Powder coating is essential.
• Wood – Wood framing is prone to chewing damage and moisture absorption leading to mold.
• Painted steel – Paint inevitably chips and flakes leading to dangerous ingestion risk. Powder coating preferable.

Always inspect materials closely. Ensure plastics are thick and durable. Metal should be coated for protection.

Decorating Your Pet’s New Full Cheeks Extension

A Full Cheeks extension presents exciting opportunities to decorate your pet’s enlarged habitat:

• Add hideaways so shy pets have new secluded sleeping spots to feel secure. Use tunnels, tents, wood houses, and enclosed beds.
• Introduce new climbing structures like ladders, ramps, branches, and platforms to add vertical play space.
• Attach treats, chew toys, and puzzle feeders along wired walls to encourage foraging.
• Include digging boxes filled with bedding for burrowing pets like hamsters and gerbils to dig freely.
• Install a roomy exercise wheel in the extension for energetic pets to run.
• Add a litter box in the extension to contain messes if space in main cage is limited.
• Use cage dividers in expansive areas to create sectioned rooms serving different purposes.
• Scatter snacks and hide food in the extension to spark seeking and discovery.
• Place timothy hay racks to encourage natural grazing for rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas.

Have fun decorating your pet’s exciting new extended living space! Change it up periodically to keep them engaged.

Maintaining a Full Cheeks Cage Extension

Like any habitat, a Full Cheeks extension requires regular maintenance for optimal sanitary conditions:

• Spot clean litter, droppings, and uneaten food each day. Scoop waste promptly.
• Every 1-2 weeks, fully disinfect the extension with pet-safe cleaners and rinse thoroughly.
• Check for damage and make any necessary repairs immediately to prevent injuries.
• Monthly, discard old litter and bedding to start fresh. Disinfect floors and accessories.
• Watch for chewing damage, especially at base seams. Apply anti-chew sprays if needed.
• Tighten any loose screws or pop rivets to avoid hazards.
• Wipe down steel parts to prevent corrosion. Avoid moisture build up.
• For plastic units, use non-abrasive cleaners only. Scrub gently to avoid deep scratches.
• Frequently wash all hideaways, toys, ramps, food dishes, and accessories.

Stay vigilant and keep your pet’s expanded home clean for their health and happiness!

Ensuring Your Pet’s Safety with a Full Cheeks Extension

While cage extensions provide wonderful extra space, pet safety should remain the top priority:

• Review all assembly steps to guarantee everything is properly constructed and secured. Check regularly.
• Supervise your pet’s initial exploration and use of the extension to ensure they adjust smoothly.
• Select an appropriate extension height that cannot be scaled or leapt over by smart escape artists.
• Always latch or lock access doors securely to prevent your pet wandering out when unattended. Check latches are working properly.
• Cage wires and bar spacing should be narrow enough to prevent escapes and entrapments.
• Check for gaps along seams where little paws or mouths could get caught or escape.
• Avoid unsafe hazards like loose wires, detachable pieces, or choking risks. Inspect thoroughly.
• Ensure ramps have tacky coverings for grip and platforms have protective edges.
• Watch for signs of excessive chewing on plastic bases or side panels.

Stay vigilant for safety and enjoy the expanded space worry-free!

Fun Color Options to Choose From

Full Cheeks extensions today are available in a rainbow of fun colors to spice up your pet’s habitat decor. Beyond basic black, white, and silver models, you can choose eye-catching colors like:

• Calming pastel blue, pink, and purple plastic models
• Vibrant translucent red, green, orange, or other shades
• Glossy brightly colored powder coated finishes in any hue
• Clear plastic panels to maintain visibility
• Fashionable two-tone color combinations
• Woodgrain or marbleized finishes for a natural look
• Coordinate bold or neon colors to match cage interiors
• Neutral shades like beige and grey provide flexibility

Think about which color schemes complement your home decor best or match your pet’s personality. Then take your cage extension to the next level with color!

Preventing Cage Extension Escapes

While escapes make for cute videos, they can be dangerous for pets and destructive to your home. Ensure your new cage extension is escape-proof with these key tips:

• Double check the spacing of wires and any openings to prevent squeezing through.
• Use locking latches on doors at all times. Many extensions provide two latch points for extra security.
• Weigh down or securely anchor freestanding extensions so they cannot be tipped over.
• Look for chew-proof plastic bases if you have an aggressive chewer on your hands.
• Attach plexiglass panels over any wire walls to prevent pushing through weak spots.
• Seal any seams along the edges thoroughly with clamps or silicon if gaps appear.
• Redirect destructive chewing behavior onto safe chew toys instead of the cage.
• Slide-out plastic trays under the base can thwart underground tunneling.
• Avoid overcrowding the extension which can spark stress and escape attempts.

With planning and vigilance, your pet’s new home expansion will be the perfect secure habitat!

What is the Warranty on Full Cheeks Cage Extensions?

Look for a strong warranty when choosing a Full Cheeks expansion unit for your peace of mind:

• Midwest Homes for Pets – Offers a generous 10 year warranty against defects in workmanship.
• Prevue Pet Products – Comes with a 1 year limited warranty on manufacturing issues.
• Kaytee – Their extensions are backed by a 6 month product guarantee.
• You & Me – Provides 90 days coverage against defects impacting use.
• Other brands – Range from 30 days up to 1 year of limited warranty coverage.

Review warranty details upfront so you know what kind of damage or flaws are actually covered should issues arise. Save your receipt!

Make the Right Choice for Your Pet

I hope this comprehensive buying guide gives you confidence to choose the ideal Full Cheeks cage extension suited to your pet’s needs and your home. With all the varieties available plus handy tips offered here, you can provide your furry friend an amazing expanded habitat.

Just be sure to dimension the extra space appropriately, reinforce all access points, accessorize it appealingly, keep safety top of mind, and regularly clean the addition. Soon you’ll be rewarded with a happy healthy pet who enjoys greater comfort in their newly enlarged forever home!