Decide first whether your rabbit will live indoors or have an outdoor run. Choose the largest enclosure you can provide, and for multiple rabbits ensure adequate space and consider spay/neuter. Use a two-compartment layout with a solid resting surface, avoid prolonged wire flooring, and elevate the hutch to make cleaning easier. Build runs with welded hardware cloth and secure bases to prevent digging and predation. Favor durable, easy-to-clean materials and consider modular hutches with detachable runs.
Decide where your rabbit will live
Decide first whether your rabbit will be kept primarily indoors or outdoors with access to a run. Indoor housing usually gives better protection from predators and extreme weather, while an outdoor hutch with a secure run can offer more space for exercise. Whatever you choose, prioritize safety, ventilation, and the rabbit's daily exercise needs.Size and number of rabbits
Choose the largest enclosure you can reasonably provide. If you plan to keep more than one rabbit, ensure the enclosure and run are large enough for both to exercise and avoid stress. Rabbits are social animals, but many pairs require spaying or neutering before they can share space safely; consult a veterinarian.Layout: compartments and flooring
A two-compartment layout works well: a quiet sleeping area and a larger living area for feeding, playing, and litter training. Provide a solid, comfortable resting surface or platform - avoid prolonged exposure to bare wire flooring to reduce the risk of sore hocks. Include a separate, accessible litter box in the living area.Doors on both compartments make cleaning and access easier. Use a solid door for the sleeping side to block drafts and a wired or mesh door on the living side to provide light and visibility. Small connecting openings let the rabbit move freely between areas.
Height and placement
Elevating a hutch on legs or a stand keeps the base drier and makes cleaning and feeding easier. Many owners raise hutches to roughly table height (about waist level) so maintenance is more convenient. Avoid placing the hutch in direct sun, heavy wind, or where water can pool beneath it.Runs and predator-proofing
If you add a run, make it sturdy and predator-resistant. Use welded hardware cloth or welded wire with small openings rather than lightweight "chicken wire," which can be pushed aside by determined predators. Extend or bury the mesh at the run's base or turn it outward at ground level to discourage digging-out attempts. Provide a roof or cover if predators or birds of prey are a concern.Materials, cleaning, and maintenance
Choose materials that are easy to clean and resist rot. Smooth plywood or coated surfaces are easier to scrub than raw wood. Clean bedding and soiled litter frequently and disinfect surfaces periodically. Make sure water bottles or bowls are secure and check them daily.Mobility and modular options
Consider a hutch that includes a detachable run or modular panels so you can reconfigure space or remove the run for storage. Prefab hutches vary in quality - inspect joints, locks, and wire gauge before buying.Final priorities
In short: give your rabbit as much space as you can, ensure safe ventilation and predator protection, provide a solid resting surface and an exercise area, and make cleaning straightforward. When in doubt, consult local rabbit rescue or a veterinarian for housing recommendations that suit your climate and situation.FAQs about Rabbit Cages
Should I keep my rabbit indoors or outdoors?
Indoor housing offers better protection from predators and extreme weather and makes social interaction easier. Outdoor hutches with secure runs can work if predator-proofed and sheltered from sun and wind.
Can two rabbits share one hutch?
Yes, two rabbits can share space if the enclosure and run are large enough. Many pairs require spaying or neutering before cohabiting safely; consult a veterinarian about bonding and health checks.
Is wire flooring okay for rabbits?
Avoid prolonged use of bare wire flooring. Provide a solid resting area or platform and use mats where needed to prevent sore hocks and keep your rabbit comfortable.
What should I use to build a run?
Use welded hardware cloth or sturdy welded wire with small openings rather than lightweight chicken wire. Secure the base by extending or burying the mesh and add a roof or cover if predators or raptors are a concern.
How often should I clean the hutch?
Remove soiled bedding and droppings daily, refresh litter as needed, and disinfect surfaces periodically to maintain hygiene and reduce odor.