Hutch (animal cage)
A hutch is a type of cage used typically for housing domestic rabbits. Other small animals can also be housed in hutches.
Most hutches have a frame constructed of wood, including legs to keep the unit off the ground. The floor may be wood, wire mesh, or some combination of the two. One or more walls of the hutch are also wire mesh to allow for ventilation. Some hutches have built-in nest boxes and shingled roofs—these are generally intended to be placed directly outside rather than inside another shelter such as a barn. Some hutches have a felt roof. In any case it is important that the hutch is draft-free and provides a shelter in case the animal is scared and wants to retreat to a safe haven.
In terms of sizing it is generally better to have a hutch as big as possible to provide adequate room for exercising and playful romping. The animal should at least be able to stand up right and also lie down and stretch out twice the body length. The generally accepted minimum hutch size is 10 square feet for a 4 kg medium sized breed.[1] If the animal is very protective or even aggressive, this is generally a sign that the hutch is too small.
References
- ↑ Sentry, Rebbeca. "BestRabbitHutch.com". BestRabbitHutch.com.