Rabbit Awareness Week

Rabbit Awareness Week is turning into a fornight long festival this year. See tips on how to keep your pet bunnies happy and healthy.

Vaccinations

R abbits are at risk of catching diseases such as myxomatosis, Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD) and a new strain of RHD - RHD2, all of which cause intense suffering and can be fatal. There are not effective treatments for these diseases, and so vaccinations are essential: https://bit.ly/2PrNcCM

Diet

Company

Just like us, rabbits are a social species and most like to live with another bunny buddy! Lots of people keep them with other species, but they are normally happiest with another rabbit of the opposite sex (neutered, of course!). If you are thinking of introducing a new rabbit to keep your existing one company we have advice to help: https://bit.ly/3kbeWcV

Housing

How big should my rabbits’ housing be?

Your rabbits’ housing should be attached to a larger space within which they can exercise freely in both daytime and night-time, whether this is a safe bunny-proofed room indoors or a large run outdoors.

For one rabbit, the housing itself should be as big as possible but at least 2 feet high, 2 feet wide and 6 feet long. The run area should be at least 3 feet high, 6 feet wide and 8 feet long so that your bunnies can run around as they would do in the wild.

What goes into my rabbits’ housing?

Bedding – lots of comfy, soft bedding should be available such as dust-free hay or specifically designed rabbit bedding.
Hiding places – These will make your rabbit feel safe from danger. There should be at least one hiding places per rabbit with two entrances/exits.
A loo – your rabbit will need access to a toilet area. This should be away from the sleeping area. You can use newspaper or non-expanding litter.
Water – Fresh, clean water should always be available.
Enrichment – Tunnels, platforms and toys will keep your bunnies entertained.

Where should I house my rabbits?

Outdoors – If your rabbits are being housed outdoors, they should be sheltered from the elements with enough warm bedding. Housing should be well ventilated, dry and free of draughts along with escape proof and safe from predators.

Indoors - Rabbits can be kept indoors but it is important they are gradually introduced to common household noises and sights. It is also important they are protected from any other animals in the house. Areas used should be fully rabbit-proofed. Watch out for electrical cables and house plants! Litter trays should be used inside and kept separate from their bedding area.

How often should I clean my rabbits’ housing?

Daily – Give a quick clean, throwing out wet/dirty bedding, uneaten food and refilling food and drink containers.

Weekly – Give the housing a thorough clean, removing and replacing all bedding

Monthly – Give your rabbits’ housing a deep clean, removing and scrubbing everything and replacing with fresh supplies.