Did you know that rabbits are now the third most popular pet in the UK?  It is estimated that there are 1.5 million rabbits now being kept as pets and many of them have become house rabbits and enjoy all the creature comforts that have previously been bestowed on our much cherished cats and dogs.

Rabbits will live happily in outdoor rabbit hutches or indoor rabbit cages provided that you choose the right size for your rabbit and also allow him plenty of exercise around the house or in an exercise run. Rabbit owners must cater for all their rabbit’s physical and behavioural needs in order for him to remain happy and healthy.

When choosing a rabbit hutch for your pet, purchase the largest hutch you can afford and remember that the hutch should have a separate living area and sleeping area and make sure you allow your rabbit enough space to stand up on his hind legs as rabbits like to stretch up and check that their environment is safe.  Your rabbit would be most uncomfortable if he was hunched over all day or had his ears folded against the roof of his hutch.

The minimum recommended size for a rabbit hutch is 3 to 4 times the length of your rabbit so that he can take 3 or 4 hops.  Also, a relaxed rabbit will naturally lie fully stretched out so he needs the room to do this comfortably .  He also needs enough width to turn around easily in the hutch and enough height for him to sit on his hind legs comfortably. In addition, a large safe area or a rabbit run is required for his daily exercise.

It is essential that your rabbit has the room to stretch in all directions because a hutch that is too small can affect your rabbit’s health by causing spine problems, muscle wastage and obesity.

ideas-4-pets have recently introduced the Bunny Shack which, if you have the space in your garden and want your pet rabbit to have the best, is great because it offers a good sized raised sleeping area and lots of space for him to hop around in safety.