Like all pets, rabbits require a safe, secure space to call home.
Creating an enriching habitat for your bunny is key to ensuring their health and happiness. The furry critters require plenty of space to roam and need to be kept in pairs or groups, otherwise they get lonely.
How much space do rabbits need?
According to the Blue Cross: “Rabbits need access to lots of space all the time. As we don't recommend keeping only one rabbit, two rabbits should have a minimum area that's three metres by two metres, and at least one metre high. They'll also need a sheltered area, like a hutch, that's at least six feet by two feet by two feet. This can be inside or permanently attached to the larger area (three metres by two metres by one metre). If you have more than two rabbits or giant breeds then you'll need a bigger space.”
Rabbits are an active species that love to explore, run, dig and hop. As they are crepuscular, bunnies are typically most active at dawn and dusk, meaning large amounts of space are needed for them to do their thing at any time of day.
What should you look for when buying a rabbit hutch/shed?
Spacious sheds are typically considered the best way to house rabbits outdoors. Experts at the Blue Cross say that your rabbit shelter must be at least three metres by two metres, by one metre high, with the rabbits having access to the touch at all times. Owners will need to predator-proof their chosen hutch to keep their precious pets safe from foxes. A covered area of at least six feet by two feet by two feet is also crucial as it provides a shelter for your rabbits to shield in. The Rabbit Welfare Association says that a hutch is not enough, stating that: “A hutch should never be the sole or main accommodation for rabbits.” Discover how to build your own shed here.
The Blue Cross further advise that if you are using a traditional hutch as a shelter it will need:
- to be raised off the ground
- to have a waterproof roof
- at least two rooms so their food and water can be separate from their sleeping area
- solid floors (not wire as this will be painful for your rabbit's feet)
- to be placed in the shade (especially in summer)
Your rabbits must also have a run. According to Omlet: “A hutch on its own simply does not give these animals enough space – they need a much bigger area known as a run. A run is essentially a hardy cage that sits on the ground and allows your rabbits to safely roam around inside it. Many hutch units come with a run attached. This is a good idea for both rabbits and their owners alike, as it stops you from having to move your rabbits in and out of the run frequently, and it allows rabbits a little more freedom about where they choose to go.”
What should you avoid when buying a rabbit hutch/shed?
Rabbit housing to avoid includes:
- Hutches that are too small for your rabbit
- Cages
- Starter hutches as you’re rabbit will outgrow them quickly
- Misleading pet store options as they tend to be too small
How much do rabbit homes cost?
As with all high-quality products, rabbit residences don’t come cheap. Mainstream pet store options cost in excess of £100, and most of the time they aren’t big enough. Therefore, you’re looking at spending over £500 on a perfectly-sized, wooden shed to create your rabbit kingdom.
If you’re strapped for cash, there’s always the option of crafting your own rabbit hutch, so long as it meets the sizing specifications required. You can also shop for second-hand options, but make sure they have been thoroughly cleaned with proper pet cleaner before use.
Considering domesticated rabbits have a lifespan of eight to twelve years, you want to ensure that they are cosy and comfortable during your time together. Paired with the correct food and bedding, and the right home will provide the perfect lifestyle for your bunny.
Discover the best bunny abodes below. FYI - a touch of DIY may be required.
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Forest Garden 10' x 8' Overlap Pressure Treated Double Door Apex Wooden Shed
- Size: 3.01m x 2.61m (recommended size 3m x 2m)
- Material: Timber
- Door type: Double doors
Treat your bunny to the best pad around town. This spacious shed features a 25-year guarantee plus ample space for your pet to rest and nest. It’s UK-made from FSC-certified UK timber and has shatterproof windows, ensuring your rabbits’ safety during harsh weather.
According to Rabbit Welfare UK, in order to provide the best habitat possible for your bunny: “It’s a good idea to make a secondary mesh door behind the shed door which you can open during the day, especially in nice weather, to make sure that the rabbits do not get too hot.” Creating ventilation is key, whether removing a beam or replacing a window with mesh.
You can also drill holes in the side of the shed to attach tubes which can lead to a solid mesh outdoor run area for exploring, digging and hopping.
Buy now £659.99, Shed Store
Forest Garden 10' x 6' Overlap Pressure Treated Pent Wooden Shed
- Size: 3.11m x 2.05m (recommended size 3m x 2m)
- Material: Timber
- Door type: Single door
A slightly smaller option for smaller gardens, this handy outdoor shed doubles up as the perfect rabbit habitat. It’s made from natural timber and can be transformed into an enriching space for your rabbit with a touch of DIY. Create plywood levels inside for your bunny to explore, attach tubes that lead to an outdoor run and fill with soft bedding, litter trays and treats to keep your pet happy and healthy. A fun runaround is crucial to ensuring your pet remains stimulated, especially when you’re not home.
Ensure there is adequate ventilation in the shed, especially during the hotter weather, which can be done by replacing a window with a mesh barrier or removing a beam.
Buy now £589.99, Shed Store
Forest Garden 12' x 8' Timberdale Tongue & Groove Pressure Treated Apex Shed
- Size: 3.65m x 2.52m (recommended size 3m x 2m)
- Material: Natural Timber
- Door Type: Double door
Forest Gardens is Britain's leading manufacturer of wooden sheds and Timberdale is their premier line. With some DIY, this luxury shed can be transformed into an ideal space for your rabbit. It’s handcrafted in Worcestershire (making it a local UK-based pick) and features pressure-treated wood with a generous 25-year anti-rot guarantee. Plus, the windows open, providing ventilation for your rabbits.
Premium wood flooring is great for building on, for example, levels, runs and tunnels, plus the double door offers easy access. Position your chosen run next to the shed and create a creative kingdom for your beloved pets.
Buy now £1699.99, UK Sheds Direct
Forest Garden 10' x 8' Timberdale Tongue & Groove Pressure Treated Apex Shed
- Size: 3.06m x 2.52m (recommended size 3m x 2m)
- Material: Natural Timber
- Door Type: Single door
Same, same but different, Forest Gardens’ single-doored shed is a touch smaller than the double-doored counterpart. It showcases all the same features that are ideal for rabbit-proofing. With a natural wood structure, windows that open and a 25-year anti-rot guarantee, your bunny is in good hands here.
As with all garden sheds, the unit needs a facelift before handing it over to your rabbits. Jazz it up with enriching elements from runs to levels and shelter and watch your bunny settle into its new and improved home.
Buy now £1369.99, UK Sheds Direct
The Custom Wood Company Large Outdoor Animal Enclosure
- Size: 2.4m x 3.6m inside and 4.8m x 3.6m outside (recommended size 3m x 2m)
- Material: Wood and mesh
- Door type: Single door
Boasting generous dimensions of 2.4m x 3.6m inside and 4.8m x 3.6m outside, this spacious custom enclosure offers ample space for your rabbits to roam. The unit features a secure entrance area complete with an interior door, which keeps your bunnies in and predators out.
The 1" x 1" mesh adds an extra layer of protection, and customisation options are available to meet your specific needs. Contact the company directly to discuss bespoke options tailored to your rabbits’ requirements.
Buy now £4000.00, The Custom Wood Company
UK Kennels Avon Rabbit Hutches
- Size: 3m x 8m (recommended size 3m x 2m)
- Material: Wood and mesh
- Door Type: Single door
Available in a range of sizes, UK Kennel’s Avon Rabbit Hutch is a versatile pick for all garden sizes. The luxury choice for your rabbit features an impressive height of 5’11, galvanised mesh panels for ventilation and security and a heavy-duty rounded edge tanalised frame. The kennels are 4ft x 4ft, while the run measures 6ft by 4ft.
Flat-packed with fixing and assembly instructions, this unit can be filled with plywood levels, tunnels and toys for your bunnies to explore.
Buy now £2599.00, UK Kennels
Omlet Outdoor Rabbit Run
- Size: 3.1m x 2.2m (recommended size 3m x 2m)
- Material: Metal
- Door type: Single door (more can be bought online)
A fun run to accompany your rabbit’s home, Omlet’s outdoor piece is the perfect playpen for your rabbits. Watch them hop, run and binky in this spacious unit, which is extendable in width, length and height, making it suitable for every breed of rabbit.
A stable door and structure give you peace of mind that your rabbits are safe and sound, and an underfloor mesh can be added to prevent larger rabbits from tunnelling out.
The best part? Unlike other runs, this option has been designed to blend in with a garden aesthetic, meaning you won't have to endure an eyesore every time your rabbit needs to exercise.
Buy now £584.00, Omlet
