outside or inside

Question
I have just "inherited' a four year old rabbit which stays outside on my balcony and would like to know if it's ok to let her inside for a few hours at night or in the morning to run around the house.  She scratches at the door to be let in but i was told not to let her inside at all during winter as the change in temperatur could kill her.  She is very sociable and this is causing me concern.  Is it all or nothing?

Answer
Dear Helen,

Whoever told you that it would kill your bunny to bring her inside had things backwards!  Rabbits *love* to be indoor companions, and though we give some of ours free access to the back yard, they *always* can come in at will.

Rabbits are pretty easy to train to a litterbox, as explained here:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/training.html

though it will be easier if she's spayed first:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/spay.html

(which is also better for her overall health.)

Rabbits are very social and lovable, and to leave her outside to be lonely would be sad, especially if she wants to come in and become your house bunny.  You'll wonder why you waited so long!  :)

For complete information on living with a house rabbit, please visit www.rabbit.org  and please never hestitate to write back if you have any other questions.

Good luck!

Dana