When it comes to rabbit cage floor bottoms, selecting the right cage wire can significantly impact your rabbits’ comfort and your cage-building experience. There are two main contenders. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of using 16-gauge (16G) and 14-gauge (14G) wire to help you decide which works best for your rabbitry.
Pros:
Cost-Effective: 16G wire is a fraction of the price of 14G wire, making it an economical choice for rabbitry owners.
Rabbit Health: Despite common concerns, I’ve built several cages with 16G wire and haven’t experienced issues with sore hocks. My rabbits remain comfortable and productive.
Galvanized After Welds: This ensures the wire resists rust and lasts longer, even in damp environments.
Cons:
Occasional Loose Welds: Automated assembly lines can sometimes produce rolls where a weld has come loose. While this is rare, it’s an issue to watch for. Fortunately, a quick fix with a j-clip can easily reconnect the wire.
Potential for Sagging: If your cage floor bottom isn’t built perfectly, even an extra 1/2 inch of wire can cause sagging. This requires careful attention during assembly to ensure a taut fit.
14-Gauge Wire (1/2” x 1”, Galvanized After Welds)
Pros:
Superior Strength: 14G wire is significantly stronger than 16G, reducing the risk of sagging or breakage over time.
Higher Quality: The thicker wire requires more robust welds, making it less likely to have issues with loose connections or weak points.
More Forgiving Assembly: If you’re not confident in your cage-building skills or prefer something that requires less precision, 14G wire’s added strength leaves more room for error.
Cons:
Higher Cost: You have to buy a lot. The substantial markup for 14G wire can be a barrier for those on a tight budget.
Hard To Find: Not available at local stores, Home Depot, Lowes, TSC Farm & Fleet or Amazon.
My Recommendation
For those looking for an affordable solution and willing to make occasional adjustments, 16G wire is an excellent choice. It’s durable enough for most rabbitries and offers significant savings.
However, if you’re seeking the highest quality and don’t mind paying the premium, 14G wire is the way to go. Its strength and reliability make it the ideal choice for long-term use and easier assembly. At the bottom of the page, we’ve listed five trusted companies that sell 14G wire (1/2” x 1”) and assembled cages.
For many rabbitry owners, finding a reliable source for 14G wire is a challenge, but with our guide, you’ll be well on your way to upgrading your cages. Let’s get excited about improving your rabbitry with the right wire!
Whether you choose 16G or 14G, understanding your options ensures you’ll make the best decision for your rabbits and your budget. If you want 14 gauge, try giving Klubertanz a call. You can buy pre-cut 30x30 pieces or large rolls. Happy cage building!
Places To Buy 14G Cage wire
