All you need to know about Rabbit Enclosures
There is an infinite number of ways to set up your Rabbit's space. So don't be afraid to experiment to see what works with your bun's unique personality.
How much space does a rabbit need?
If your bunny can take a few unobstructed hops, turn around, and sprawl out, then that is a good start. Your space should have room for a litterbox, chew toys, and eating/drinking vessels and a space to lay. They should be able to periscope, hop, flop out, and move around with ease. At minimum,
Pens/ X Pens
Pens are my favorite enclosure type. Many rescues advocate this style as it provides unlimited playtime opportunities and can be customized as needed. I generally recommend at least a 5ft tall pen which is big enough to deter most bunnies from trying to jump out. However, if your bun is a jumper, you can secure a fitted bedsheet or a fleece using binder clips over the top. Cleaning pens are easy; move a panel to the side and, vacuum, and sweep as needed. Some people opt to use shower curtains, carpet squares, cardboard, fleece blankets, or tiles under the pens to protect their flooring from any potential bunstruction. One pen is good for small to medium-sized breeds. Opt for two put together for a giant breed or to just give them more space to lay and play.
Hutches/ Make Your Own
Hutches are my least favorite enclosure type. Most hutches are bulky on the outside, teeny inside, and hard to clean as it is made of porous materials, which means you will need to clean it frequently.
What we do recommend is to create your own hutch using storage cubes. Google: Bunny Condos for ideas!
An Entire Room/Free Roam
If you have space, this is an excellent option for your Rabbit. However, there are some things to keep in mind when choosing to allow your bunny to free roam. Any room they have access to must be bunny-proofed. Look for cords, baseboards, table legs, and anything they may want to play with. You may want to choose some sacrificial wood to tack to (for example, the baseboards). You can also use baby gates to keep bun away from areas that aren't bunny-safe.
You may need to spend some time litterbox training your bun, and I recommend working your way up to the entire space. Sometimes when you give your bun too much freedom too quickly, they can become territorial and potty everywhere.
I recommend setting up a rabbit-only area where the bun can find their litterbox, food, water, and den. It becomes their safe zone where they can always go when feeling overwhelmed. When deciding where to let your bun have space, stay away from busy, noisy locations like the kitchen or laundry area. Noises can spook your bun, especially for a timid prey animal. A quiet place is better suited to get to know your new bun and bond with them.
The Essentials
At a minimum, your bun should have a place to use the bathroom, eat, and sleep. You can also include a hay holder, litter box, and drinking bowl. I use timothy mats to spread out their food for foraging. You may also want to have some smaller chewable wood or hay toys to keep your rabbit engaged when they are in their enclosure. They should have 2-4 hours of exercise time outside their enclosure so they can binky, explore, and play!
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