Securing XPen

[SamLM5511]

My Netherland Dwarf Lionhead cross Petey, like most rabbits, is quite the rearranger. I tried an Xpen but he managed to bust through it or hop over it in no time. It is metal and over two feet high (I think its 36+ inches tall).

 I can’t put anything (house, sturdy tunnel, cage, etc) without fear of him using it like a launching pad. So, are there any DIY suggestions for a top cover to keep him from jumping out?

 I’m thinking about using some metal wire to fasten all the panels securely together. But what do I do about his rearranging? He always pushes it way out of shape until he is pretty much trapped in a little corner. 

And last… for now…. what about securing flooring to it? I have some rugs he doesn’t tear up but he pushes the sides of the pen right off of it.

He is allowed to free range when supervised, but I would like to allow him more space for when I can’t eagle eye him.

[RabbitPam]

Some xpens are a standard size that come with plastic tops you can get. Go online and look up the brand you have and see if it sells that accessory.

You could buy some screen on rolls at a big box hardware store, measure it and trim it to just a bit larger than your xpen opening. Use twist ties or the plastic ties that don’t come apart once you pull them on to secure it. That may help hold its shape. It will mean you have to use the door opening to clean, put in food, change water etc. instead of having the top open.

An oldie but a goodie is to take a bed sheet, small like a twin, and spread it taught across the top. The secure it with clamps. As many as you can get to prevent escape holes, but it can clamp to the top edges of the xpen.

Or, get a taller one. I think mine is the 48″, and Spike hasn’t tried to jump out. I have deliberately used pointed top willow tents and the accordion shaped tunnel from BB to prevent him from using a flat topped hidey box as a step ladder to escape.

[SamLM5511]

I’ve looked up different universal covers, but they can get pricey very quickly. Using clips to secure the sheet is a great idea! That would also leave it easy to change around or open up to clean.

[RabbitPam]

Exactly. I heard it here first, and mostly we pass along good advice we’ve learned on the site.

[SamLM5511]

I’ve done the same thing with info I learned here. This site made me go from major noob to feeling like an expert in no time. But you can always learn more! Thank you so much

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