14/12/2022
Please remember if you are cold, they are too 🐰
Some great advice below from our friends at The Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund
How do you keep your buns nice and toasty this winter? ❄
With weather warnings being issued throughout the UK and the first of the winter snow on its way, now is the time to prepare for the cold ☃️
If you have outdoor rabbits, make sure to keep them protected from the cold weather by providing them with a well-insulated, draught-free sleeping area.
❄ BEDDING: Use soft, dust extracted straw as bedding as opposed to hay as it is warmer as a bedding material.
❄ COMPANIONSHIP: This should always be essential, but this is especially important during the winter months as rabbits like to snuggle up and share body heat to keep warm.
❄ PROTECT FROM THE ELEMENTS: Use tarps to protect your rabbits’ housing from the elements and keep out the wind and rain.
❄ KEEP THEM CLEAN: We know it’s cold and wet, but that’s more of a reason to go outside and clean out your rabbits’ housing to make sure it’s not damp, and your rabbits are as comfortable as possible.
❄ BRINGING THEM INDOORS: If you are bringing your rabbits inside for the winter, a drastic change in temperature can cause them to overheat and they may lose their protective winter coat, which would cause them to suffer when they go back outside. Keep them somewhere quiet and away from strange smells and noises. Make temperature change gradual starting with a room with no heating such as a conservatory.
Remember, your rabbits will still want outdoor access to carry out their natural behaviours so they shouldn’t be confined to a hutch, but you should make their bed as cosy and comfortable as possible.
Visit our website for a full breakdown on how to keep your outdoor rabbits comfortable and protected this winter: https://rabbitwelfare.co.uk/rabbit-care-advice/rabbit-housing/outdoor-rabbits-in-cold-weather/