Even we’re talking about some species as commonly held as pets like cats or dogs, you’d still need a cat litter box, a dog house, or one of those indoor dog beds to keep your trusty four-legged companions happy and well-protected.
Of course, if it’s a lizard or a snake, you’ll need a terrarium, if it’s an elephant – a garage or a zoo, you catch our drift.
Now, in case you’re pet o’ choice happens to be a rabbit, you’re going to need a rabbit hutch – a spacious cage-like structure where your rabbits can sleep, eat, and pursue other rabbit activities! In this article, we’ve assembled a plucky list of five rabbit hutches, so that you can pick the best one for you, or rather your rabbit’s (or rabbits’) needs.
The size of the rabbit hutch
There is never a rabbit hutch that is too big for your rabbit. Experts recommend rabbit hutches or cage to be at least four times the rabbit’s length. But, do not forget that your rabbit will grow in size especially if you are buying newborn rabbits. You need to cater room for your rabbit to grow and space for them to run around and stretch as well as a place to hide. Your bunny need those exercise to remain fit and healthy.
Rabbits that lack exercise will develop health problems. You also need to cater space for the water bottle, feeder, litter box as well as some toys to keep your rabbits from being bored. Therefore, always choose the largest rabbit hutch that is practical for you – one that you can afford and that will fit where you need to place it. Remember that your rabbit generally live happier when they have adequate room in their homes.
The type of rabbit hutches
You have a choice of either an indoor or outdoor rabbit hutches. Rabbits are generally safer indoors and definitely more comfortable because of climate controls in the house. Keeping rabbits indoors also help you to bond with your rabbits as you are more likely to interact with it if it is nearby. It also helps the rabbits to be social with people by being in contact with people on a regular basis. Consider having a large outdoor rabbit hutch for milder weather.
With that, you can let your rabbits enjoy the fresh air, sunshine and lots of exercise by running around the backyard while being protected from predators and keeping them from wandering off. Whether it is an indoor or outdoor rabbit hutches, do consider one with a second level or more. A multi-level rabbit hutches will satisfy your rabbit’s love to climb, provide them with lots of exercises they need and to keep your rabbit from being bored.
The design and materials used
Most modern rabbit hutches and rabbit cage today are made of metal, plastic, or wood, depending on size and exposure to the elements.Keeping in mind that you need to clean your rabbit hutches regularly, the materials used is very important. I would recommend a metal, stainless steel or plastic one as they are easier to wash than wood. Also look for a hutch design that allows easy access with more than one opening and doors that permit you to reach all parts of the hutch – for ease of cleaning. A common problem that rabbit owners faced is sore hocks.
Unfortunately, most rabbit hutches and rabbit cage have wire floors with a removable litter pan underneath designed for ease of use and cleaning. Rabbits have sensitive feet and their hocks can get really hurt on a wire floor. Rabbits who stand exclusively on wire day in and day out will develop sore hocks and possible infections as a result. To overcome this, cover at least part of the surface with a hunk of untreated wood, cardboard or a sisal mat to provide a solid area for the rabbit to rest their feet.
Remember, a rabbit hutch is a special place for your rabbit and they must feel both secure and safe in order for them to stay healthy, happy and calm – make it as enjoyable as possible!
Post time: Jan-14-2020
