avalon advice sheets
Rabbit Housing
  • As a general rule most of the hutches that are sold by pet shops are too small as a sole form of housing for rabbits.

    The essentials for a good hutch is that it provides secure, dry, draught free bed area and a secure exercise area.

    Hutches should be as large as possible with at least enough height for the rabbit to stand on its hind legs and long enough for it to take 3 normal hops. Hutches are normally made from wood but be aware that many rabbits will gnaw wood and may escape through holes if they are not maintained.

    Bedding should consist of a layer of newspaper with wood shavings and straw on top. Straw may be used alone.

    Hutches need to be cleaned at least weekly and preferably more often

    The exercise area may be connected to the hutch or be free standing as an mobile run or may be a permanently fenced area. The exercise area should be secure to prevent the rabbit(s) burrowing out and should be covered to prevent them jumping out. The top cover will also provide protection from potential predators such as dogs, cats and foxes.

    Rabbits can also be kept free range in large sheds or the garage, preferably with raised shelves or platforms. They can also use "rabbit flaps" to connect to an outside run.

    House rabbits can be trained to use litter trays but should also have a secure safe area to used when left in the house. This can be a cage or a safe area in the house.