Rat Cage From Old TV Stand

I needed a cage for my pet rats, so I decided to repurpose an old TV stand, that I found at a flea market for $5. A cage like this could be made from a number of types of furniture, for almost any type of small animal.

As mentioned, the TV stand came from a flea market. I also got a 1x2 (82 cents), some wire, (about $5) and some spray paint. I already had, but one might need to buy, some small hinges, and a latch with a spring.

It's a pretty basic set-up, but I used the 1x2 to make a square, mitered in the corner (like a picture frame). I painted it, and after it dried, I used a staple gun to attach the screen to the back. I used some old melamine I had laying around to add a shelf on the inside, and the scrap from the 1x2 to put on the inside so as to keep the bedding from falling out. I attached the hinges and the latch, and that was about it.

This is the finished product.
Eventually they'll be "potty trained" and I'll be able to remove the bedding.
I hope this helps or inspires someone.
Thanks for reading, and for any comments, ratings etc.