Ramps Won't travel between levels in two story cage.

[rogersmithiii]

Have three GPs. Built a two story, 48 inch by 60 inch C&C cage. I built a ramp out of 1 x 6 inch pine, and covered it with commercial low pile carpet. The distance that the ramp covers when connecting levels spans 3/4 of the 48 width of the cage, so it's not so steep.

The problem is that the pigs rarely travel between levels. If I put them in the bottom, they stay in the bottom. If I put them in the top, they stay in the top.

I've been hesitant to put the pigs in one level and the food in another because I don't want to starve them. Regardless, one 48 by 60 level isn't enough space for three pigs.

How do I encourage them to travel between levels? Do I need to install an elevator with operator (2cnd floor, lingerie, home goods and notions).

Thanks
Rog

 

[blackarrow]

Can you post a picture?

I've seen some members say that their pigs were happier about ramps that were covered or partially enclosed in some way. Your pigs may just feel too "exposed" on the ramps.

Personally, though, I'd like to see an elevator!

 

[akstrohm]

Do you have sides on the ramp? I definitely recommend sides, and possibly a top as well. Make sure the carpet has good grip. And how do you plan to clean the carpet?

You can put treats on the ramp to encourage them to explore, but both levels should have food. Pigs are not climbers by nature, and it can take a while for them to get comfortable with the ramp.

 

[1frankie7]

My piggie would NOT go up a ramp until I gave it sides so I would start off like that . and you could put yummy treats like lettuce and cilantro and carrot and yummy bell peppers!

 

[Ly&Pigs]

How steep is the ramp? If it's too steep they won't feel comfortable going up or down.

As has been stated, most pigs won't touch a ramp unless it has sides.

 

[rogersmithiii]

How high should the sides be? 1 inch? 2?

 

[GizzyandMe]

Here is a link of a ramp that I like! I think it was made pretty cool!

 

[blackarrow]

How high should the sides be? 1 inch? 2?

Oh, 5 or 6" anyway. I do think that's your answer.