Rabbit Housing Guide

Space and movement

Rabbit housing should allow normal movement and behaviour throughout the day and night. A traditional small hutch should not be treated as the complete living environment. RWAF recommends a permanent area of at least 3m x 2m x 1m for up to two rabbits^★, giving them room to run, jump, stand upright, rest, hide and explore. The exact setup still needs to be adapted to the animals and location.

Shelter and security

The enclosure should include a dry, secure resting area, safe flooring, hiding places and protection from predators, escape and harmful weather. Good ventilation^★ matters, while direct exposure to extreme heat, cold or damp should be avoided. Outdoor accommodation needs particular attention to predator security and protection from wild rabbits. Indoor housing also needs rabbit-proofing so electrical cables, toxic plants and unsafe household materials cannot be reached.

Enrichment and maintenance^★

Housing is also part of enrichment. Rabbits benefit from opportunities to forage, dig, explore and choose where to rest. Cleaning should remove soiled bedding and litter while preserving a hygienic environment. Water, hay and food must remain accessible. Because rabbits are social, the housing plan should accommodate compatible companionship rather than expecting a single rabbit to live alone. The design should be assessed by welfare and behaviour, not just by the footprint of a commercial hutch.