hutch layout

[aleeza]

hi, I'm getting a 2 story hutch for my 2 female piggies and I was wondering how to set it up. If anyone can post pictures I would really appreciate it. Also should I put a litter box on both floors? thank you!

 

[Piggies&buns]

yes, I would put all equipment on both levels - hay piles on both levels, beds on both levels, water bottles on both levels etc.

Do be aware that piggies aren’t natural climbers so using a two storey hutch may or may not work. Some piggies are just too scared to use Ramps others take to them absolutely fine. You will need to ensure the ramp is not too steep - most commercial hutch ramps are too steep so you will likely need to adjust the angle of the ramp. They also need sides added to the ramp to make piggies feel more secure and make them safer - if they don’t feel safe then they won’t use them. and to add that upper levels do not increase the amount of hutch space, it’s only the bottom level which can be counted so it needs to meet hutch size requirements on the one level.

 

[aleeza]

thank you so much, this was so helpful!

 

[Betsy]

Stick some Carpet on the ramp with some double sided waterproof tape and pop it in the bottom of the hutch and let the piggies run over it and scent mark it. Piggies are more likely to use the ramp if they follow a scent trail. The carpet will give them grip.

 

[aleeza]

i did notice that they are having a hard time with the ramp, hopefully this will work, thank you!

 

[Betsy]

i did notice that they are having a hard time with the ramp, hopefully this will work, thank you!

When I had a ramp in my hutch before I had to split my herd, my piggies were reluctant to use the ramp until I covered it in carpet then they were up and down it all the time.

 

[aleeza]

I just wanted to thank everyone for your help. The tips made a massive difference! I'm new here, and everyone is so friendly Thank you!