how to winterize outdoor hutch

Question
We have a hollan lop and my husband made a hutch to
keep in our backyard.  I don't know what temp she can take
outdoors without inslulation.  The breeder we bought her
from said Oct. - March the hutch should be insulated if she
stays outside.  I don't know how to insulate it and the temp.
low will be 52 tonight and 44 degreees tomorrow night.  Is
that too cold? or do we have time to get the hutch
insulated.

Answer
Hi Gail,

I'm probably not the best person to ask, as I am an indoor rabbit person.  

I do know things that hutch rabbit folks do.  Many opt ot bring their rabbits in during the winter because it is just too cold for them, and they are easier to care for and at much less risk of sickness if they are inside.  It's also more pleasant to take care of them (less of a chore if you don't have to bundle up and trudge through snow and ice).

As far as insulation goes, you can use things like old cotton tshirts, cotton blankets, and lots of hay that they can 'nest' in to keep warm.  Also their area needs to not be in line with drafts/wind.  That will definitely increase their risk of sickness.  You will have to check their water often to make sure it has not frozen.  Any soiled bedding material needs to be removed as soon as you find it so as to not freeze under them and get them cold/damp, and then get sick.  Make sure there are no roof leaks, or ways for wetness to get onto their bedding/insulation, as it can re-freeze there and then they get damp and sick.

I guess with all the extra stuff you'd have to do, I would personally recommend bringing the hutch inside and gating off a section of a room for her.  See if you can enjoy her inside the house during the winter.  YOu may find you don't want to keep her outside anymore.

Feel free to write anytime.

Lee