06/12/2025
Winter has arrived so if you have outdoor pets please think ahead so you are prepared. Here are a few tips on how you can help keep outdoor rabbits and guinea pigs warm over winter -
In the wild rabbits live in underground burrows where temperatures remain fairly constant during summer and winter, however, when we keep them outside and prevent them burrowing we need to ensure they have everything they need for the cold season:
• Hutches should be raised off the floor to allow air to circulate and prevent the base from becoming damp. They should be well ventilated, waterproof and protected from extreme temperatures.
• They must have a dry, warm bed area. If the hutch has a wide sleeping area it’s a good idea to place a cardboard box in it, with an entrance hole and straw for bedding.
• Even in winter rabbits need to exercise. They should be able to do so and they must be able to retreat to a warm sheltered area if they wish.
• We recommend keeping them in pairs. Bunnies are very social creatures and they are much happier if they have a fellow bunny to play and to snuggle with during the cold days of winter.
Please make sure you check on them regularly: make sure they have water, hay and that their hutch and their bed are dry. Dont forget to keep an eye on water bottles to make sure they dont become frozen.
If you have any questions on how to care for your pets over winter please call us on 01692 407126
