Proper Cage Sizes for a Rabbit

Proper Cage Sizes for a Rabbit. Rabbits are popular pets, but unlike cats and dogs, they definitely need a cage or hutch in which to spend part of their day. A proper rabbit cage should be big enough to accommodate your animal and keep him comfortable if he's spending extended periods of time in the cage. When making or buying a rabbit cage, you need to consider the size and number of rabbits that you're planning to house.

Basic Cage Requirements

A basic rabbit cage must provide enough room for a single, relatively small-sized rabbit a to run around and get some exercise. There also has to be enough room for the rabbit to create a little nest to relax and sleep in. Dwarf or small-breed rabbits that weigh two to five pounds should be comfortable in a cage that measures 30 x 30 x 14 inches. A larger rabbit that weights more than six pounds would require more space, making a 36 x 30 x 18 inches cage more appropriate.

Multiple Rabbits, Multiple Cages

If you have more than one rabbit, you must decide if you want to put them all in one large cage or split them up into separate cages. If you have a pair of rabbits that have been raised together and are of the same sex, it is possible to put them in the same cage if they get along. To determine a cage size for two rabbits, use the dimensions listed above, adding three or four extra square feet to accommodate a second nest. Rabbits that are not bonded together, are capable of breeding or are prone to fighting must be put into their own, individually sized cages.

The Bigger the Better

If you have more room for your cage, it is never a bad idea to make a larger cage. If your rabbits live outdoors and you have a large yard, a larger cage is appropriate. You can even buy a two-level rabbit "condo" to give your rabbits a large space to run around.

Rabbits That Are Rarely in the Cage

While it is not recommended to let your rabbit run around outdoors without supervision, a trained rabbit can live indoors without being confined to a cage. These rabbits can get by with a smaller cage because they will only be using their cage to sleep and relax in. For this kind of situation, a 24 x 15 inches cage is suitable.

References

• Pet Rabbit Care Information: Rabbit Housing
• Rabbit.org: Housing
• Rabbit Web: Rabbit Care for Beginners
• Pet People Place: Rabbit Breeds Sorted by Size