Rabbit Outdoor Care Guide

Study Notes

Outdoor Accommodation

Rabbits can live outdoors all year if provided a comfortable habitat.
Minimum hutch size for small breeds: 6 feet x 2 feet x 2 feet (1.8 m x 61 cm x 61 cm).
Hutch must be raised to prevent dampness and draughts; includes a separate sleeping area with hay/straw bedding.
Use wood shavings for lining to absorb urine.
A fine wire-mesh front keeps out rodents; secure both hutch and run against larger predators like cats and foxes.
Essential features: water bottle and hay rack mounted on the hutch.
Winter care includes using a hutch cover to minimize heat loss and checking for frozen water.

Outdoor Run

Ideally, attach the run to the hutch for rabbits' free access.
Provide shelter with dry, hay-filled areas elevated off the ground.
Recommended exercise time: 6-8 hours daily.
The run needs to be spacious with a shaded area for hot or rainy days, plus a water bottle affixed to its side.
Include vegetables and untreated fruit tree branches for eating and chewing.
Move the run regularly if placed on grass, or designate a sand/soil area for comfort on concrete.

House Rabbits

Indoor rabbits require a spacious cage, either pre-made or adapted from a dog crate.
Cage base should be lined with newspaper or washable carpet tiles.
Use a cat litter tray in one corner, lined with litter and hay to encourage use.
Attach a water bottle for hydration.

Bunny-Proofing Your Home

Utilize a large playpen for exercise outside the cage.
Bunny-proofing a room involves removing hazards like trailing wires, chewed curtains, and toxic houseplants.
Supervision is crucial, especially with other pets like dogs or cats.

Enrichment

Rabbits need to exhibit natural behaviors, such as digging and foraging.
Daily diet should consist of ample grass or hay to maintain dental and digestive health.
Provide natural toys made from untreated wood (e.g., willow) and avoid hard plastic toys.

Daily Care Checks and Cleaning

Remove uneaten food and clean feed bowls regularly; adjust feeding amounts if leftovers persist.
Refill water bottles and hay racks daily.
Clean wet bedding and droppings (easier if using a litter tray).
Ensure rabbits have access to exercise run for adequate activity hours.

Description

This quiz covers essential knowledge about providing outdoor accommodation and care for rabbits. It includes information on hutch size, features, and the importance of an outdoor run for exercise and shelter. Test your understanding of what makes a suitable habitat for rabbits in outdoor settings.