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Hutch
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Hutches should be as large as possible and your rabbit should
at least be able to stand up on its hind legs (allowing for the ears) and complete three
hops length wise. Rabbits hate hot and humid conditions, they cannot sweat and are very
prone to heat stress and stroke. The optimum temperature range is 60-70 degrees
Fahrenheit; never let the ambient temperature exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Outdoor hutches should be at least 20cm above ground and sheltered from the wind,
the sun, predators, insects and rodents. If the hutch has a solid flooring and do provide
bedding in the form of grass hay, soft wood shavings (not sawdust) plus straw or recycled
paper products. Carpet should not be used. Your rabbit will appreciate a box for hiding
and sleeping. You will need to clean the cage frequently (at least completely once a
week). Wet, soiled bedding can cause ulcerative plantar pododermatitis (sore hocks) and
high ammonia levels predispose to respiratory disease. Do provide your rabbit with plenty
of items to chew on such as untreated wood, cardboard, commercial cat and bird toys. An
exercise area must always be provided in addition to hutch accommodation. This can be in
the form of a mobile run or ark or a permanently fenced area of grass. It should be
remembered that does will dig deep burrows and measure to prevent escape should be taken
such as sinking wire mesh below ground level. Contact with wild rabbits should be
prevented, in order to minimize the risk of disease transmission. If you have a house
rabbit, make sure you have it confined to a secure cage area when you are not there;
exercise around the house should be encouraged but make sure to eliminate areas that your
pet can get wedged in or escape from. Also watch out for electrical cords, rugs and
furniture which they like to chew or any toxic materials they can get into. Get on your
hand and knees and bunny proof your home! Rabbits naturally urinate and defecate in one
place and thus are easily house trained to use a litter tray, by repeatedly placing them
in the tray on acquisition. It may be necessary initially to place some droppings in the
tray. House rabbits will readily learn to use cat flaps. Be careful not to leave your dog
or cat unsupervised with the rabbit.
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