Rabbit hutches offer shelter and protection.
Rabbit cages and hutches offer shelter from weather and protection from predators or other animals likely to cause a rabbit stress. Whether indoor or outdoor, rabbits have certain housing requirements that bear consideration before buying a hutch or cage. Exact requirements vary, based on the size and breed of rabbit selected. The most important considerations are material construction, ventilation and appropriate space. Flooring is also a factor in choosing the right hutch or cage for a pet rabbit.
Instructions
1. Determine the size of the rabbit or rabbits at maturity. Rabbits need a certain amount of space to live comfortably in a confined space. Enclosures should easily accommodate a full grown rabbit.
2. Decide between indoor or outdoor housing. Material construction, overhead protection and enclosed spaces within the hutch differ between outdoor hutches and indoor cages.
3. Measure the space where the hutch or cage is to be placed. Space limitations will determine the maximum size hutch or catch possible for that area.
4. Look for a hutch or cage that meets mature rabbit size requirements and alloted space. Experts recommend a minimum 1 square foot per pound of mature rabbit. Another formula is four times the outstretched length of the rabbit at maturity.
5. Consider height requirements. A rabbit needs to be able to stand on his hind legs without its ears touching the top of the enclosure.
6. Select rabbit housing with a combination of wire and solid flooring. Wire flooring allows droppings to fall through and away from the rabbit's feet for better sanitation. Sections of solid flooring provide rabbits a place to nest.
7. Check any potential cage or hutch for good ventilation. Air circulation helps keep temperatures moderate and prevents fume buildup from urine or droppings.
Tags: hutch cage, hutches offer, hutches offer shelter, indoor outdoor, mature rabbit