Rabbits As Pets Outdoors
Traditionally pet rabbits have often been kept outside in a pen or hutch and since you see wild bunnies hopping around all the time you may assume that your pet will do fine outside as well.
Rabbits as pets outdoors. Because rabbits are smaller pets they can get all the exercise they need from running and jumping around the house. They may look a bit strange at first glance but flemish giants are easy to fall in love with as pets. But there are many factors to consider. Rabbits are good pets for apartments as they won t wake you up during the night.
Rabbits are prey animals for many other pets. When housed outside they need a large hutch which is safe from predators cats dogs foxes. Apartment dwellers be warned. This should be insect mosquito proof and protect rabbits from extreme weather.
Your bunny is the natural prey of dogs and cats. You may argue that there are no predators in your area. Giant rabbits have the same basic needs as smaller rabbits. The benefits of living outside for pet rabbits is they are less likely to be injured or poisoned less hair inside your house less smell though this can be abated by frequent cleaning and use of specialty litter not as limited by the space ability to separate from other household pets and numerous options for hutches.
Rabbits need protection from predators at all times. Flemish giant rabbits need more food living space and attention than regular sized rabbits. They also need to be spayed or neutered to cut down on behavioral problems and health risks. The safety and well being of your pet rabbits are of optimal importance if you decide to keep them outdoors.
Decide if your rabbit should stay outdoors at all. Do not think that if you are living in the suburbs there is no danger to your rabbits. Flemish giant rabbits are much bigger than your average sized rabbit. Rabbits are much quieter animals.
Rabbits are comparatively low maintenance pets if you re someone who isn t into taking early morning walks with your dog and taking them to the park on a daily basis then rabbits are for you. If you already have other pets at home then bringing a rabbit into the mix is not always a great idea. Their few vocalizations are quiet. Rabbits will usually be destructive if deprived of attention and appropriate toys.
Having ample protection from the elements and predators is your main concern. Position the hutch so it is also protected from weather on a verandah or deck. In pet stores they always say rabbits are dwarf or miniature but you often get a mix so you cant really tell until it s full grown at six months old says beaulieu. Happy and contented rabbits make soft clucking and purring noises.