Rabbit Cage Basics

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

06 Sep 2006 01:18 PM

When it comes to housing your rabbit, bigger is always better! A good rule of thumb is that your cage should be at least four times the size of your rabbit -- even more if your bun will spend most of his time in the cage. The more time your bunny spends outside the cage, the smaller his cage needs to be.

That doesn't mean a large cage can replace free-running time! Bunnies need space to move around, or you're going to have a chubby bun on your hands.

For your rabbit to be happy in his cage, he should be able to feel safe and secure. An enclosure where he can sleep or hide will add to that sense of security. He'll also need toys for play and for chewing, plenty of fresh water, and some snacks.

Some rabbits don't do well with side doors -- hands reaching in at eye level can be threatening. Your rabbit may run and hide or lunge forward to bite. A side door may make it easier for a bunny to get in and out on his own, but if he doesn't like the door, you may need a top opening instead.

The size of the door should also be a consideration when picking (or building) a cage. You're going to need to do all your cage cleaning through that door, so make sure you can maneuver. If you'll be training your bun to use a litterbox, make sure the door is big enough to get the box in and out!

Slatted floors are actually easier on your rabbit's feet than a wire floor would be. However, smaller rabbits (like dwarf breeds and very young rabbits) may get their feet caught in slats. Whatever kind of cage floor you choose, cover part of the floor with newspaper, wood, cardboard, or a towel to give your bunny a solid surface to rest on.

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