Brooder for 6 chicks - ideas what to use? (NOT cardboard)

[limabean]

I realized the pack n play (playpen) is not a good idea - the cats could probably get through that easier than cardboard.

Maybe I just need to realize I *will* be vigilant about keeping the cats separate....but oh my goodness it would be horrible if something happened....

 

[skhomer]

I started mine off in a large Rubbermaid container, but moved them into an old pack and play this past weekend. They love it and now I can use the Rubbermaid for the babies I just couldn't help buying at the feed store last week ..... chicken math strikes again ..... plus 6 Australorps coming mail order from Meyers next week .... must stop ..... must stop ....

Check flea markets, thrift stores and maybe craigslist -- since you're not concerned about any of the attachments (diaper station, mobile, etc.), you should be able to find one pretty cheap. I did cut a small piece of plywood to put the food and water on, although the bottom seemed plenty solid. I've got an old window screen over the top, chicken wire would work too. The older chicks are 5 weeks today and wow can they fly!

Our pup was licking at the mesh side, so I reinforced that side only, the others are solid. The only funny thing so far is that it's blue fabric with small white polka dots, and the chicks think they're bugs there to play. We only have dogs so I have zero experience, but with the mesh side covered and a top over it, maybe the chicks would be safe from the cat?

Good luck, have fun, chicks are so much fun!

 

[birdstheword]

Started my 4 chicks in a rubbermaid tote. They outgrew that in a week.

Moved them into our large dog crate

I cut scraps of plywood 13" tall around the sides. Works great.

 

[ams4776]

I plan on using a 50 gallon aquarium. U may have luck on craigslist for it.

 

[Eggcessive]

We are using a 100 gallon water stock tank for horses and cattle. I made a simple frame for the top out of 1x2's with 4 nails and attached 1/2 hardware cloth with a staple gun. It fits over the top, and when I am not in the room, I put 2 C clamps to fasten it. The brooder heat lamp hangs over the top. An extra bathtub would also work (with a cover.)

 

[dbounds10]

Glass can get to hot and cook the chicks, I would be careful with a fish tank. I use a large dog crate (you can find them on craigs list) and they have been in it for over 6 weeks.

 

[anniegal]

Started my 4 chicks in a rubbermaid tote. They outgrew that in a week.

Moved them into our large dog crate

I cut scraps of plywood 13" tall around the sides. Works great.

I know this is a verrrry old thread, but ... If you see this, I'm curious what the size of that dog crate is? I just bought a used one ($20 ) and am wondering how long it will be big enough. It's 36" x 24". Yours looks like it's probably bigger? LOVE those plywood inserts, tho. Definitely showing those to DH. (I'm sure he'll be thrilled with yet another chickie project! )