Tree Monitor cage

[SeeTheCityLights]

I saw a previous topic saying store bought cages are not suitable for tree monitors. Why is that? Would ReptiRacks 6x6x2, 6x5x2, or 6x4x2, or an Animal Plastics A30 6x4x2 not work? If so, why not? What's different between one of those compared to a homemade cage?
Not planning on getting a tree monitor any time soon, or even at all maybe, but just wondering for future reference in case we ever do decide to get one or a pair.
Thanks guys!

[infernalis]

My biggest issue with tree monitors as captives is that these lizards are made to leap from tree to tree, How exactly can we give them this in a smallish cage?

Now, on to your question, no company makes anything suitable.

All of the dimensions you listed included a 2.... 2 feet isn't nearly enough floor space.

[SeeTheCityLights]

Most of the info I can find on them says 2 1/2 feet deep, but has dimensions of 6x4x2.5, so even if I were to buy the 6x6x2 to give more space lengthwise, it still wouldn't be enough?
I understand what you're saying, I'm just trying to figure it all out. 6x6x2 seems like much more room than 6x4x2.5 that I usually see listed in care sheets. Not trying to be argumentive at all!

[infernalis]

Like I said (and I am not arguing either) but the very name "tree monitor" means that to even come close to offering a decent home, we need to offer them a tree.

Used with permission, here is what I would consider the absolute minimum for a tree monitor to be comfortable.
(Note that this cage is 7 feet tall)

[Ga_herps]

If your keeping just one tree monitor the 6x6x2 will be more then optimal just with the lack or depth or height(which ever the 2 foot dimension is) is where its going to hinder some things. I would recommend focusing on making as many raised spots as possible in the form of driftwood or ledges. Your main focus with tree monitors is remembering you are dealing with an almost all the time canopy animal. Now if you are looking to get a pair I would definitely recommend more then the 2 foot dimension. I would go with something in the dimensions of 6x4x4 feet for bare minimum space for a pair. I know its sounds crazy for such a small monitor to have these larger dimensions, but they will utilize every inch of the cage, and making an almost jungle gym type setup of branches and vines will definitely keep the focus of the ground.

[infernalis]

How could anyone ever confine such an intelligent, majestic lizard in the "minimum" possible cage to simply survive. Quality of life for our captives is just as important as a water bowl. Varanids are NOT snakes, and will not be content hiding under a log waiting for a meal. They are energetic dynamos that need stimuli.

[SeeTheCityLights]

Thanks for the answers guys.
If I built a cage thats 7' high x 5' wide x 3' deep, would that be acceptable for a pair?

[Ga_herps]

Just fine, and that will be in no way confining. Obviously the concept was lost from my above description. The animal will not be hiding under logs, but walking across the top, and hopefully some are hollow because they will utilize them. I have kept plenty of black, and green tree's in my day and have yet to see one stay under a log hence the "jungle gym" idea.

[SeeTheCityLights]

Awesome, thanks! We went to Home Depot today and looked at prices for everything. I couldn't be more excited!