The very first rack I built was a mouse/rat rack that served it's purpose for many years, but wasn't the best quality rack by any means . I need a lot more rat tubs now so I decided to scrap the old rack and build one just for rats. Wanted to make the rails much sturdier on this rack and also find a way to keep myself from getting cut up from the mesh.
Took pictures of my build just incase anyone was curious...
Started with a frame for one of the levels. I will be making 5 of these total. front will be the smaller space that will be the food bin.
1/2 inch mesh laid out. I have it hang over each side to eventually be folded over the sides
Stapled the mesh down good and cut the corner for it to be folded onto the sides
Fold the mesh over, screw on some 1/2 inch plywood to cover up the mesh ends. No exposed mesh ends to get cut on. Left the back a 1/2 inch longer to act as a stop for the tubs.
I made my rails out of 2x4's and 2x3's and a dado blade.
Put down my first side rail, then Mark out each rail after that.
Glue and screws
1 tub spot done
Test
If the rails work out, put the rest down.
Screws in the back of the rail in hopes to keep them from twisting
flip it upright and staple the mesh down on top of the rails
Repeat 5 times
Make some legs, casters make life a little easier
assemble in the rat room because it will not fit through the door....
Add water system and tubs, ready to be used
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