I meshed it and used it to house my rats and it works perfectly! Although you can't see them that well compared to an unmeshed cage it keeps them secure. They have more than enough space to run around and the platforms are fairly easy to clean as long as you stay on top of it. Only downfall is you have to make sure you lift the platforms as you clean because the fecal matter gets stuck in between otherwise it's a great cage! I wouldn't suggest it for anyone with back issues as you practically have to *climb in* the side in order to clean a few platforms and I know from experience that it has left me in pain for 1-2 days and I'm in my 30's! Worth the price!