Lately I've been stocking up on carpet samples.  A local hardware store
has them pre-cut for doormats at 50 cents each.  I line cage floors with
these so the ferrets don't have to walk on wire.  Unlike towels, they
stay in place and can be cut to fit.  I get tight weaves for food levels
(so crumbs stay on top) and softer types for sleeping levels.  They can
be vaccuumed and cleaned, or just discarded and replaced.
 
Kara & the 16
(Kerby, Mendel, O'Meara, Bennett, Bianca, Anakin, Amidala, Bastian,
Blair, Baxter, Alex, Gregor, Possum, Phidget, Atlas, Merlin)
[Posted in FML issue 3880]