tamsin
Well-Known Member
Hiya,
Yes, in the UK it's most common for rabbits to be kept as outdoor pets though house rabbits are certainly gaining popularity. There is an issue with rabbits being neglected sat in hutches down the bottom of the garden but I think that's more to do with the owner than whether they are indoor/outdoor.
Outside you need to consider the weather (both hot and cold) and preditors. The RSPCA recommend a minimum of 5'x2' hutch with a 5'x4' run... though bigger is better with space
If you have a shed you could consider converting that.
An outdoor rabbit can easily become an indoor one, you'll need to bunny proof of course and expect a few accidents whilst you litter train.
Rabbits can be expensive! Expect to pay £40-60 to neuter a male or £50-100 to neuter a female. Rabbits in the UK also need vaccinations against VHD & Myxi they are usually about £15 each per year. I've been at the vets with bunnies much more than hamsters and it really can add up if they're ill but you can get insurance which is a good way to help with vet bills.
My personal view, that of the Rabbit Welfare Assocation and most people working in rescue is that rabbit should have company of their own kind. A rescue will help you out with matching the bun up and often rescue rabbits are already neutered.
They are a big responsibility, I know a few rabbits in their teens so much longer a commitment than a hamster is.
There are also wonderful pets though
Tam
Yes, in the UK it's most common for rabbits to be kept as outdoor pets though house rabbits are certainly gaining popularity. There is an issue with rabbits being neglected sat in hutches down the bottom of the garden but I think that's more to do with the owner than whether they are indoor/outdoor.
Outside you need to consider the weather (both hot and cold) and preditors. The RSPCA recommend a minimum of 5'x2' hutch with a 5'x4' run... though bigger is better with space
If you have a shed you could consider converting that.An outdoor rabbit can easily become an indoor one, you'll need to bunny proof of course and expect a few accidents whilst you litter train.
Rabbits can be expensive! Expect to pay £40-60 to neuter a male or £50-100 to neuter a female. Rabbits in the UK also need vaccinations against VHD & Myxi they are usually about £15 each per year. I've been at the vets with bunnies much more than hamsters and it really can add up if they're ill but you can get insurance which is a good way to help with vet bills.
My personal view, that of the Rabbit Welfare Assocation and most people working in rescue is that rabbit should have company of their own kind. A rescue will help you out with matching the bun up and often rescue rabbits are already neutered.
They are a big responsibility, I know a few rabbits in their teens so much longer a commitment than a hamster is.
There are also wonderful pets though
Tam
