rabbit hutches
A sweet, snugly pet rabbit seems to intrinsically beg you for a protective indoor living environment, but think again. Rabbits are outdoor creatures and can be just as happy living in your backyard. Fresh, natural air circulation and sunlight is just as good for them as it is for us, and they are naturally adept at withstanding cooler temperatures. If you feel you want to bestow your pets with a more organic living situation and let them reside in outdoor rabbit hutches, take into consideration their safety and comfort.
Don’t skimp on the quality and integrity of the hutch. Look for a structure that is comprised of real lumber and wire in its construction. Most rabbit owners prefer these models, so follow the professionals and invest in housing that will be a protective barrier between your pets and any unsavory outdoor elements and predators.
Fresh air won’t be very beneficial if the elements inside the hutch aren’t up to snuff. Studies have shown that nesting materials such as pine and cedar shavings can actually be toxic to respiratory health, even leading to illnesses like asthma, so use alternatives. Hay is one good option. If hay isn’t practical, be economical and shred kraft paper for fluffy bedding.
Your pet rabbit needs plenty of exercise. Cramped quarters can lead to limited movement, which is not only distressing since rabbits love to scamper (and don’t we love that about them!), but can also be detrimental as lack of exercise can lead to obesity. For every pound that your rabbits weigh, give them one square foot of space. Or, alternatively, give them scampering room that is five times the length of their bodies.
Safeguard those sensitive bunny feet. A portion of your hutch’s flooring will require mesh wire to allow for droppings, but you must be sure that there is also a good amount of solid surface on which they can stand. Prolonged exposure to a metal floor can lead to soreness and cuts, and possibly infections, so it’s essential that there is relief from this through a comfortable, flat wooden flooring.
Can you see your rabbit hutch from your house? It seems like a basic question, but it’s an important one. Your pets are your responsibility, and they are at your mercy for their well-being. Make sure that your rabbit hutches are stationed in a place that is readily accessible and can be visually monitored. Be ready to defend them against any wily predators like stray animals or bored neighborhood kids.
Think about how much joy you experience when you are outdoors – the elevation in your health and spirit when your exposed to the natural elements. Undoubtedly, your rabbits will experience the same in their outdoor hutches, so long as you are vigilant about certain details.
