Guinea-pigs are suited to colony management, whether for breeding or maintenance, and single cages are only necessary when experimental or other requirements demand them.

Floor pens are extravagant of space and open to criticism on grounds of hygiene.

Wire floored pens, in batteries of four tiers, have many advantages, both in economy and hygiene, and are compatible with excellent health and breeding performance.

Certain details in the design of such batteries are important; among them being the size of mesh of the wire floor, the avoidance of corners and ledges where soil can accumulate, and the observance of convenient dimensions.

I first saw this method developed by an accredited guinea-pig breeder, Mr Ashton Poole, who has since given up breeding. Although the present battery is a far cry from Mr Poole's pens, the method is the same, and the unblemished health record of his very large stud over a period of some years was impressive. I am glad therefore to acknowledge my indebtedness to him.