Rabbit Hutch Plans – How To Build On Your Own For Outside

Some owners prefer a natural habitat for their bunnies. Specifically, they don’t want to hinder their ownership for the rabbit’s chance to experience what it is like to be outside and feel the fresh breeze.

But on this occasion, a question may come to mind, and that is "How can I put my rabbits outside without them being harmed?"

Not having a way to house them may endanger their security. With this, you need to find the best way to cage them. There is a lot to consider in finding the right storage for your pet, and the following information stated can help you in doing so.

Don’t worry; I am here to ensure that your fuzzy little creature will have the correct house even outside of your premises!

Why is The Rabbit Hutch Important?

When a rabbit is located outside, it is vulnerable to the possible predators and extreme weather. Being alone in an open area can bring fear in their little furry heart, which may cause them to be broken and afraid as you check them the next day.

To prevent any negative circumstances, the most popular accommodation is a rabbit hutch. The hutch provides shelter, as well as safety. Do not settle for hutches with cheap materials, especially if the weather condition in your area is mostly unfavorable.

A small hutch with small plywood as walls can make your rabbit feel agitated, and so choose a design that is large enough that your bunny can move freely.

Key Points To Consider When Choosing The Correct Hutch

It is essential to building the right hutch to ensure your rabbit's safety. The hutches are primarily designed to protect your little pet, and should not be the reason in providing it harm. To avoid the unwanted accidents that may occur here are some of the information that you need to consider when choosing the right rabbit hutch-

Size

The bigger the hutch, the better. Rabbits tend to happily hop around the hutch, and the comfortable feeling can assure they're in a good mood.

The recommended size for those that are housing an average rabbit is 6'x 2'x 2'. Depending on its breed, large rabbits need a much larger hutch than the standard size.

Security

Hutches have doors. Though, it is not preferred to install those that can be unlocked by twisting a material. Predators can easily make it lose by continuous scratching, exposing your little bunny in danger. With this, slide bolts are much preferred.

Also, do not install chicken wires as a mesh. This can easily be broken and harm your bunny. Mesh that has at least half an inch as opening holes are the best installment in hutches. Never consider larger diameters, as it can be a possible entry for the rabbit's enemy.

Hutch Elevation

It is recommended for the hutch to be elevated, to avoid possible harm brought upon by potential flood or damp land. If your hutch does not have one, then install brick or any other material on each side to serve as an elevation.

Floor

Never install mesh or wires as floors; this may cause potential health problems such as pododermatitis. Instead, it is best if the material is solid, with added floor covering to make your rabbit comfy.

Provide edging strips or battens to the side of the walls to prevent your rabbit to chew on the covering.

Walls

Never install cheap thin plywood as walls, as this material may likely break. Instead, choose a sturdy material that can withstand heavy weather. Also, check the walls daily for any cracks or leaks. A strong wall can make your rabbit feel secure despite the predators and weather.

Step-by-Step Process in Building Your Own Rabbit Hutch

Down below I will list the step by step instruction on how to build a rabbit’s paradise.

1. Find A Safe Location

In finding the perfect spot, the area should be taken into consideration. See to it that the position is where you can observe it from afar. Finding a tree to block the direct sunlight is better.

Though, it is best if the location is not overly forested, as some predators may threaten the safety of your rabbit. Also avoid a spot that is too noisy, for it may affect your rabbit’s mood.

2. Plan The Architectural Design

Always consider the size, and refer it to how many rabbits are expected to live in it.Consider that they will need enough space to move and hop from one spot to another.

If multiple rabbits are in the hutch, think carefully if you will insert dividers to separate them. Most hutches are also made up of wood, with wire mesh for windows and doors.

3. Choose A Good Quality Piece Of Wood For The Floor, Parts Of The Wall, And Roof

The low price does not guarantee a durable material. With this said, inspect for any possible damages, and observe if it would break more easily than expected. Look for those that are golden or light red. It should also be free from any large holes, or signs that the plywood is fraying.

4. Select The Wire Mesh

It is best if the mesh has small holes that are half an inch in diameter. Check the material and recall the instance if it would break when your rabbit attempts to chew on it.

You can buy it in animal stores by either cut panels or roll, just make sure to check the dimensions.

5. Cut The Wood And Wire Mesh

In the process of building the rabbit hutch, safety comes first! Wear your safety goggles and gloves before cutting the required materials. Make sure that you’ve marked the measurement, and do it in a clean cut.

If you are not comfortable using a saw, many hardware stores offer this service. Give the measurements and let them do it for you.

Regarding wire mesh, use a wire cutter to snip it into pieces. You will need four for the sides of your wall, and one for your doorway.

6. Buy The Remaining Supplies

You would most likely need hinges, shingles, and sliding bolt lock. You can purchase them at your local home depot or hardware stores.

The hinges and latch are required for the door, while the shingles are used to maximize the life of the hutch's roof.

7. Attach The Rabbit Hutch According To Plan

Set up the basic structure and work your way through it. Remember that patience is key, as well as determination in making your rabbit cozy as ever.

Ensure that the woods and mesh are securely in place, as it will be your rabbit’s shield of protection against the threat of predators and weather.

8. Secure The Posts Using Concrete

If the rabbit hutch is not heavy enough, it is advisable to stabilize it to prevent such unwanted events, individually tipping over the whole hutch.

To do this, dig four holes in the ground to support the posts. Then, add mixed concrete to ensure that it cannot be moved by any strong winds, or your rabbit itself.

9. Add The Rabbit And Its Supplies

Set up their food, floor covering, litter box, and toys inside the hutch. Make sure that the hutch is strong enough to hold the weight of the rabbit.

Pay attention for the first few hours regarding the possible harm, such as water leakage inside due to rain, or digested floor coverings that are not entirely fixed.

Always Remember!

The hutch serves as a thin line of protection, away from harm. Not setting it up correctly may result in the rabbit's injury, and damage your relationship since it is hesitant to trust again.

The rabbits are vulnerable from any possible predators or bad weather while it is outside, and as an owner, you must ensure that their lives are safe as they can be.

Being animals, they are used to the natural habitat outside your home. Though, in this case, their safety is your responsibility. Install the right rabbit hutch, and watch them through your window as they hop around and play with their playmates!