It can be removed. That said, we have multiple show rex rabbits and use these cages because the gauge of the wire on the floor, and that fact that it is coated makes it very easy on their feet. Rex are prone to sore hocks, and we have never once had a rabbit develop sore hocks in one of these cages. Actually, I had one buck outside in a pen on the grass and he developed sore hocks out there because the soil here is hard pan clay. They actually healed after I put him back in one of these cages and now he is much better.