In reference to the cage/bedding/litter discussion, we use something like
this:
 
     ---------------------------------------  < 1" Welded Wire (optional)
     || < 6" wide 1/16" Plexiglas > > > > ||
     || < (needed only for wire sides)  > ||
     |                                     |  < 1" Welded Wire sides or
     |                                     |    1/4" Plexiglas
     |                                     |
     |                                     |
     |                                     |
    |_                                     _|  < 2" Angle Aluminum
    =========================================  < Linoleum over Plywood
                                           ^
        The welded wire or plexiglas sits  ^   Note: The linoleum is held in
        loosely inside the tray edges here.^         place by the angle
                                                     aluminum lip.
 
We have found this to be very easy to maintain.  The welded wire or plexiglas
sides just lift out of the tray formed by the 2" angle aluminum, for a
complete cleaning.  Since the floor is linoleum, it is easily washed and
disinfected.  The floor is generously covered with old sweats and t-shirts.
As far as litter goes, a litter box is anchored (bolts or twist ties) in one
corner.  To clean the litter box, we simply release the anchor from the
outside and lift it out of the open top.  The top can stay open since, either
the sides are plexiglas or the top six inches of wire is lined with plexiglas.
The carpet sharks cannot get over the top.  You just have to make the cage
high enough that your carpet sharks cannot get a hold of the top edge by
jumping.  Also, (and this is VERY IMPORTANT) if you use plexiglas sides, the
top opening should be larger in BOTH length and width than the sides are
high, to allow sufficient air flow.
 
The only time that you need a top is for going to shows.  It keeps people
from reaching into the cage.  Also, the plexiglas keeps people from sticking
fingers into the cage.  You can add doors on the sides to allow the carpet
sharks to go in and out without being lifted over the side.
 
-----------------
"Cats may be cool, but carpet sharks rule!"
 
John Gaver ([log in to unmask])
 
[Posted in FML issue 0525]