You’ve made the decision to add a bunny to your family – how exciting!
Rabbits are playful pets and can be extremely affectionate and loving toward a devoted owner. They’re also a reasonably quiet animal, aside from the occasional teeth chatter and grunt, which makes them perfect for apartment living.
Just like a cat or dog, though, they require specific care and attention. Before bringing your bunny home, read through our rabbit enclosure ideas and checklist to ensure your rabbit’s living space is set up and you have everything you need when they arrive.
Choosing your rabbit's hutch
Rabbits are very sensitive to the elements, so having the correct housing is vital to your rabbit’s health. A sturdy rabbit hutch is the best option as it will provide protection from the elements and keep them secure.
Your hutch should have two sections:
- A fully enclosed area for protection and for sleeping.
- An activity section.
Your rabbit’s hutch should be large enough for your bunny to have three big hops (so, approximately 1.5-2m long) and for them to stand upright.
This will ensure your bunny has plenty of room to stretch and hop around! Exercise pens are also available to purchase as an extension to your rabbit’s hutch and allow your rabbit extra room to roam.
If opting to use an exercise pen, be sure to always supervise your rabbit if there are other pets around (like dogs and cats) and put them back in the hutch at night for security.
If your rabbit lives indoors, they’ll just need somewhere to sleep at night or when you’re not home. Most people are also surprised to learn that rabbits can be taught to use a litter tray in an indoor bunny enclosure.
Rabbits do not cope well with being secluded in their hutch all day long. Ensure you schedule at least an hour each day to take your rabbit out of the hutch and spend quality time together.
Types of hutches
There are many hutches available that suit different purposes, some of which have been outlined below. Your local Petstock team will be able to recommend a suitable solution for you and your new rabbit.
Rabbit run
Best features:
- Able to be moved around your yard
- Your rabbit can eat the grass that pokes through the bottom
- Has both enclosed area and activities section
Wooden single storey
Best features:
- Off the ground
- Easy cleaning as roof opens up
- Has both enclosed area and activities section
Wooden double storey
Best features:
- Off the ground
- Easy cleaning as roof opens up
- Has both enclosed area and activities section
Plastic bottom / wire top
Best features:
- Can be kept off the ground if a stand is purchased, which also makes for easy mobility
- Easy cleaning as the base is plastic and the roof opens up
- Has both enclosed area and activities section
A hutch with a solid or wire bottom will prevent your bunny from burrowing out. If the enclosure has a wire bottom, it is best to cover this with bedding material as the wire can hurt their feet. All hutches, but especially plastic ones, will need regular disinfecting to keep them clean.
How to set up a rabbit hutch
Once you have your preferred hutch sorted, it’s time to set it up.
Setting up an outdoor hutch
For an outdoor hutch, you’ll want to position it in a section of your yard where there’s shade and where it’s better protected from natural elements like wind, rain and direct sunlight. Most outdoor hutches have an elevated enclosed sleeping area that keeps your rabbit protected from the damp ground and from predators getting too close. This is also important so that other pets can’t harass your rabbit.
Ensure the enclosed sleeping area is lined with straw or hay for extra insulation - it also supports your rabbit’s natural burrowing instinct. During the cooler months, add extra bedding, and in the summer, make sure the hutch has good airflow and shade to prevent overheating.
Setting up an indoor rabbit enclosure or habitat
For an indoor hutch or enclosure, set it up in an area that is away from heavy foot traffic, breezes, and direct heater or air conditioning vents. You should also place a litter tray in one corner of the enclosure and, if your enclosure doesn’t already have one, add a covered hideaway where they can retreat for privacy. Finally, if it’s practical to do so, have the enclosure in an area where other pets are less likely to harass your rabbit.
Shared setup essentials for both an indoor and outdoor pet rabbit enclosure
Whichever setup you choose, a few basics apply across the board. Provide key rabbit enclosure accessories, such as a water bottle or bowl and a food station, while ensuring hay is available at all times. Add a couple of enrichment items, like chew toys or tunnels, to keep your rabbit mentally stimulated. Finally, set up a regular cleaning routine to keep the space hygienic and comfortable.
Ready to upgrade your rabbit enclosure setup? Shop Petstock's range of rabbit hutches today.