What should I use on the bottom of a coop?

[fortkevin10]

I have an unused rabbit hutch that would make the perfect coop of a hen. It has a wire floor, which allows dropping to fall to the ground. Is wire okay on chickens' feet? If not what could I put over top of it as an alternative?

 

[Bullitt]

I have an unused rabbit hutch that would make the perfect coop of a hen. It has a wire floor, which allows dropping to fall to the ground. Is wire okay on chickens' feet? If not what could I put over top of it as an alternative?

What size are the openings in the wire? The chickens should be able to walk on the wire.

If the openings are too large, you can put straw on the bottom.

What is the size of the rabbit hutch? How many hens do you plan to get?

 

[fortkevin10]

I plan on only keeping one hen in there. It is about 3.5 ft by 2 ft. I would let it roam in the yard too though. But the holes are rectangles about .5 in by 2 in.

 

[Bullitt]

I plan on only keeping one hen in there. It is about 3.5 ft by 2 ft. I would let it roam in the yard too though. But the holes are rectangles about .5 in by 2 in.

That is a lonely life for a chicken. If possible, build a bigger coop with a run and have at least a few hens.

That bottom has openings that are too large for chickens.. You can put straw on the bottom.

 

[seann]

Yes, chickens are social creature - they cannot survive alone.

 

[MrsBachbach]

I plan on only keeping one hen in there. It is about 3.5 ft by 2 ft. I would let it roam in the yard too though. But the holes are rectangles about .5 in by 2 in.

I'd look in to replacing that bottom with plastic poultry grates. Much better for their feet and could help you avoid cuts and bumblefoot issues. http://www.farmtek.com/farm/supplie...ent-ft_poultry_fencing_flooring;pgha2215.html

And, get at least two more hens. They really need the company for health and happiness. Stress can kill a chicken and being alone is stressful. Safety in numbers. There is a reason some people are called chicken you know.