How to house a happy rabbit
Rabbits make good house pets and can be easily litter trained. However they love to chew and can be destructive to furniture, wallpaper and carpets. It is best to supervise your rabbit whilst loose in the house, and to have a secure cage or pen that it can be kept in when you are out and at night. Outside rabbits may be housed in a hutch, but should always have access to a grassed run. Cages should be as large as possible and allow your rabbit to stand up fully on its hind legs and perform at least three consecutive hops. No hutch can be too big but it can be too small. Large or giant breeds obviously need even more space. The hutch should be divided into an enclosed sleeping area where your rabbit can hide and a larger area for daytime use. Clean bedding should be provided regularly. You are able to purchase this from us as well as rabbit food. House rabbits may be kept on soft towels or shredded paper. Outside rabbits may be kept on wood shavings or straw. Barley straw is recommended as it is softer than wheat or oat straw and there is less likelihood of it damaging the eyes. Avoid dusty or mouldy straw as this can predispose your rabbit to developing respiratory problems. Sawdust should be avoided as it is dusty and can irritate the eyes. It is important, but also easy and inexpensive to provide your rabbit with many activities and toys to prevent boredom. Everyday household items can be used such as plant pots, boxes or tubes. This will ensure a happy rabbit. |
