An outdoor enclosure for rabbits is the most species-appropriate housing option, as it most closely corresponds to the conditions in the wild. Every long-eared bat is happy about an exciting outdoor enclosure. It is important that this has the necessary equipment and all safety precautions.
Rabbits feel particularly comfortable among many of their own kind in a large outdoor enclosure – Shutterstock / Mikkel Bigandt
It doesn’t matter whether you keep your rabbits in an outdoor enclosure all year round or just occasionally – the furry friends love space to romp and play in the fresh air. By the way: Since many outdoor enclosures from specialist shops are too small, you can also consider building an outdoor enclosure for rabbits yourself.
Species-appropriate and safe: outdoor enclosure for rabbits
An outdoor enclosure for your rabbits should definitely be big enough for the little animals to be able to move around freely. It should be at least three square meters per animal, preferably more. A couple would therefore need at least six square meters of floor space. It is important that you properly secure the outdoor enclosure, both from potential enemies such as birds of prey, martens or dogs that could frighten or even attack your loved ones, and from escape. A wire mesh fence is recommended for the occasional run out in the outdoor enclosure, which not only protects the enclosure on all sides, but also upwards. Depending on the design, you can also provide security with other transparent fences. It is important that your long-eared ears, which are very good at digging and like to dig, cannot dig under the boundary and break out. If your outdoor enclosure does not have a solid base, you should dig the side borders at least 50 centimeters deep into the ground.
A good outdoor enclosure is covered
Protection from draughts, rain and direct sunlight is essential. Especially if your lagomorphs are outside a lot or even all year round, the outdoor enclosure for rabbits needs a protected area with a stable roof that is slightly sloping so that rain can drain off. At best, at least two-thirds of the enclosure is covered. When buying, look for weatherproof and stable material that will not collapse even when subjected to snow.
Equipment for outdoor enclosures
In addition to space and protection from enemies and the weather, a good outdoor stable needs certain basic equipment, so that your furry friends will not lack for anything. A species-appropriate shelter is mandatory, as a house protects the rabbits from wet, cold and other circumstances and represents a place of retreat. The sleeping cottage should be closed and insulated on all sides except for one or two passages. In addition, it must not stand directly on the ground, otherwise ground frost can act on it. Inside, you should lay out wood shavings so that the long ears are snuggly.
In addition, the enclosure must have a feeding and drinking area – fresh drinking water must always be available. Also important for well-being are viewing platforms or elevated places that can be climbed. Rabbits love a good view. At the same time, there should also be hiding places, such as branches, stones or bark. Rabbit toys should not be missing either. In addition to a grassy area, the Hoppelschnuten are also happy about a sandy area in the outdoor enclosure. Your vet can give you more tips.
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