How to Choose the Right Rabbit Hutch or Bunny Cage!

There are several factors to keep in mind when deciding on what type home to buy your rabbit. In addition to providing protection to your rabbit and your home, a rabbit hutch or cage should be thought of as a "retreat" or "safe haven" for your bunny. Several guidelines should be followed when purchasing, whether this is your first rabbit or you are upgrading to more deluxe accommodations!

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Tape Measure
• Imagination
• Budget for Rabbit Home

1. Rabbit Hutches Can Look Good, Too! The first consideration is size. How big a hutch or cage should you purchase? As a rule of thumb, most experts say that you should get the largest hutch or cage that you can afford and will fit where you need to place it. Rabbits generally live happier when they have adequate room in their homes. At the minimum, rabbits that are smaller breeds and weigh less than 8 lbs. should have a cage at least 24 inches by 36 inches. Medium and larger breeds should have a minimum of 30 inches by 36 inches. You must provide housing that is at least four (4) times the rabbit's length, but again, bigger is better!
2. Hop On In! Rabbit Hutches provide the easiest way to give adequate room for your bunny while making it easier to clean his home or take care of her needs. In addition to standard items like a water bottle and a feeder, a hutch is large enough to provide room for hoping and playing. To keep your rabbit from getting bored, give your bunny toys and chew treats. Some experts suggest giving your rabbit a cardboard box or even an old phone book to chew on! Bunnies like to dig too, so you could provide a low cardboard box filled with shredded paper or even soil to satisfy their urge to dig - only fill the box half way to reduce the mess! Rabbit safe toys are available and if not, some toys made for babies could be substituted - use good common sense here!
3. Moving On Up! If a rabbit will be confined to a cage or hutch most of the time, definitely consider a larger home. Many rabbits enjoy a home with several levels, which are connected by ramps. These homes are great when space is limited in your home. This adds to the enjoyment of your long eared friend!
4. Happy Homes for Happy Bunnies! When purchasing a hutch or cage with a wire floor, consider adding a solid area by putting in a piece of cardboard, wood or a sisal mat. Adding a synthetic sheepskin rug or bunny bed will also add to the comfort level of your little carrot eater! This gives the bunny's feet a rest, yet still allows for easy clean up. The wire floors are used over a pull out tray, making it easier to remove the tray for easier clean up. It is best to use straw, aspen style wood shavings or bedding made from recycled paper in the pull out trays. Newer research indicates that you SHOULD NOT use red cedar bedding, regular pine shavings or cat litter, due to health concerns!
5. Avoid housing more than one rabbit in the same hutch or cage, unless each has been spayed or neutered. Introductions can be difficult and should always be monitored in neutral areas. It is better to get a second hutch or cage and let the bunnies socialize during their play time when out of the cage or hutch. Remember, a bunny's home is his special place to feel both secure AND safe - make it as enjoyable as possible!

Tips & Warnings

• Do pick the largest rabbit hutch or cage that your budget can afford and that your space will allow!
• Do consider a rabbit as a family pet that requires care and time – provide adequate space, food, water, comfort and toys!
• Don’t expect a young child to take care of a rabbit – take the time ahead of time to be a responsible pet owner and help your child with the care giving!
• Don’t get a bunny as an Easter Gift without knowing the responsibilities of becoming a rabbit owner!
• Do use straw, aspen bedding (hardwood) or recycled paper bedding in your pull out tray or as bedding on a solid floor!
• Don’t use red cedar, pine shavings or cat litter!
• Don’t leave your rabbit in a cage all the time – take her out for supervised play and give her protected time outdoors in nice weather!
• Do love your rabbit and enjoy a long lasting relationship!