With their thick fur coat and padded paws, you might think that rabbits are naturally adapted to winter. But while a natural burrow maintains a constant temperature, in extreme weather a draughty outdoor housing can become very uncomfortable – or, at worst, fatal.
So turn their home into a warm warren this winter with these hot tips…
- Home and dry: Rabbits do not hibernate over winter so the chill can really get under their fur. Try to maintain a temperature of 10-20°C in their housing by plugging holes and gaps in the wooden framework with insulating fabric and add extra hay, newspaper, or even a cardboard box, to their bedding area. If their home is on the ground, raise it up off the floor by at least four inches to keep it away from damp (or potential flooding), and cover the entire shelter with a thick blanket or tarpaulin to keep rain and draughts out. Add a layer of plastic sheeting to the front so your rabbit can see out, but the wind can’t get in (but ensure there’s enough fresh air circulating).
- Below-zero boost: Put a couple of layers of scrunched up newspaper between the tarpaulin and the housing to add insulation, or buy a special pet-safe heat pad. Consider bringing their home into a frost-free, disused garage or garden shed (ensuring there are no chemical or exhaust fumes nearby).
- Food for frosts: Outdoor rabbits will eat more in the winter as they burn more energy and lay down fat stores, and they are naturally programmed to think food is becoming scarce. Give them a little extra helping of hay, nuggets and snacks, and check water bottles or dishes regularly to ensure they have not frozen. Cover in bubble wrap or a thermal sock, or put a heated pad under the water bowl – just make sure your rabbit doesn’t chew it.
- Below-zero boost: Consider growing your own grass seed or micro-greens in trays, as a treat for your rabbit, so they can still get fresh greens over winter.
Spring clean: In winter, it’s even more important to keep your rabbit’s home spick and span as they will tend to spend longer indoors. Clean the toilet area daily as urine can freeze and wet bedding can be uncomfortable, and check on them at least twice a day.
Below-zero boost: Rabbits should have permanent access to a secure run, even in winter. They will appreciate time to stretch their legs even on the coldest days, so while you’re making their bedrooms shipshape make sure they get the chance to exercise.