For this particular experiment, we will be focusing on the growth and development of Flemish Giants. To see this entire process from beginning to end, please follow the posts with this (above) title, which will be numbered.
The typical wire-type cages that are sold for most rabbits are not ideal for Flemish Giants. The floors are wire, which can / will cause sore hocks on the large breeds, and they are not large enough to really substantiate the needs of a Flemish Giant. Therefore, it is common that breeders will build their own cages, in 'hutch' style, with a solid or partial wood floor, and that is larger in width, length, and height.
During this experiment, we are taking this practice to the test. Our goal will be to see what size cage, combined with proper feed, is the most beneficial in developing and maintaining the best size of housing for a Flemish.
Our first order of business is to begin with a row of 15 very solid, heavily structured coop-style pens. These pens each measure 6' wide x 16' long x 6.5' high. There is a full size opening door to enter/exit each cage. Each interior/dividing wall is full height, made of solid aluminum. The exterior front walls are 4' high solid aluminum & 2.5' high (top half) of 1x1 wire. The roof is divided in half - with with front half being of same wire, and the back half being solid aluminum. In essence, each pen can receive a varying amount of sunlight.
The typical wire-type cages that are sold for most rabbits are not ideal for Flemish Giants. The floors are wire, which can / will cause sore hocks on the large breeds, and they are not large enough to really substantiate the needs of a Flemish Giant. Therefore, it is common that breeders will build their own cages, in 'hutch' style, with a solid or partial wood floor, and that is larger in width, length, and height.
During this experiment, we are taking this practice to the test. Our goal will be to see what size cage, combined with proper feed, is the most beneficial in developing and maintaining the best size of housing for a Flemish.
Our first order of business is to begin with a row of 15 very solid, heavily structured coop-style pens. These pens each measure 6' wide x 16' long x 6.5' high. There is a full size opening door to enter/exit each cage. Each interior/dividing wall is full height, made of solid aluminum. The exterior front walls are 4' high solid aluminum & 2.5' high (top half) of 1x1 wire. The roof is divided in half - with with front half being of same wire, and the back half being solid aluminum. In essence, each pen can receive a varying amount of sunlight.