will a cage work as a brooder?

[Phoenixxx]

I have a 2-storey critter nation cage and I'm planning on using the top floor as the brooder when my eggs hatch. I did some searching here and everyone seems to be using tubs/totes. I have a 75 watt heatlamp that I will be using and it seems to me that it will be safer to hang that in a metal cage as opposed to suspending it over a plastic tub. The cage is in a closed room that's kept at a constant temperature, no drafts. Are there any mods I should make, such as putting up walls, to make it better for the chicks? The dimensions of the space are 36" W x 24" D x 24" H, bar spacing is 1/2".

 

[BlossomSilkies]

I've used rabbit cages and dog kennels for brooders. Depending on size and how many, they will outgrow it eventually. Also, they are messy, so if it has open sides, I have wrapped something around as a barrier so that I don't have shavings all over the floor. I've seen people use cardboard boxes, plastic totes, dog carrier crates, etc. so I guess anything goes!

 

[Phoenixxx]

I've used rabbit cages and dog kennels for brooders.  Depending on size and how many, they will outgrow it eventually.  Also, they are messy, so if it has open sides, I have wrapped something around as a barrier so that I don't have shavings all over the floor.  I've seen people use cardboard boxes, plastic totes, dog carrier crates, etc. so I guess anything goes!

Thanks! I did use a rabbit cage last time but the chicks were already 4 weeks old when I got them. Sides sounds like a good idea, maybe I'll start them in the rabbit cage bottom inside the big cage until they're big enough to hop out.

I'm expecting 13 for sure but may have as many as 22 hatch

 

[ChickenLegs13]

I brood in wire cages outside all the time. I put a piece of cardboard on the floor under the light for them to sleep on and prevent drafts from below, and if the weather is cold I drape a towel or sheet over the sides.
Brooding in a tote is nasty.