THE SET UPCREATING THE PERFECT HOME FOR YOUR BUN
|
The addition of a bunny, or bunnies to your lives is such an exciting time! They fill the part of your heart that you didn't even know you were missing. It is so important to make sure that you set up an enriching environment to keep both them, and yourself as happy as possible. Unfortunately most pet stores give out false information, leading people to believe that its okay for a bunny to be trapped all day in a 3ft wire box. This is a common mistake that bunny owners make, there is not many shops that promote good set ups or products for bunnies to enrich their lives. Bunnies need ample space and exercise to keep them happy. I have put together the ultimate guide, from set ups, hides, litter trays to food, treats & carriers to help new bunny owners give their bunnies the best lives possible!
The Set-Up
This is one of the most important aspects of your bunnies life- this is their home, their safe space. I have included a range of both indoor and outdoor set ups, with links to products!
Historically, Bunnies have been associated with. tiny hutches at the bottom of peoples gardens! This is NOT okay! As a breeder I do much prefer my bunnies to live indoors as house bunnies, though in the summer months I do sell to outdoor homes permitting they have suitable accommodations- a converted shed is preferable!
As most bunnies who leave me live indoors, I highly recommend a pen set up! This enables your bunny to maximise their living space. Pens can fit into most spaces in homes, and keep a bunny secure with enough space to be in long term happily when not out playing. This is a much better alternative to shutting a bunny in a 3ft shop brought prison.
Shop brought indoor cages would work well as a 'base', with the door removed, for a free roam bunny however isn't suitable to shut any bunny in for a long period of time. Another idea would be a hutch attached to a puppy pen, This would work well for an indoor set up. Due to naturally being prey animals, It's important for your bunny to have a space where they can feel safe and relax.I strongly recommend pen set ups when bunnies leave me to be house bunnies. Pens can fit into most spaces in homes, and keep a bunny secure with enough space to be in long term happily when not out playing. This is a much better alternative to shutting a bunny in a 3ft shop brought prison. Here are some styles of pens and the best examples of each style I could find:
As most bunnies who leave me live indoors, I highly recommend a pen set up! This enables your bunny to maximise their living space. Pens can fit into most spaces in homes, and keep a bunny secure with enough space to be in long term happily when not out playing. This is a much better alternative to shutting a bunny in a 3ft shop brought prison.
Shop brought indoor cages would work well as a 'base', with the door removed, for a free roam bunny however isn't suitable to shut any bunny in for a long period of time. Another idea would be a hutch attached to a puppy pen, This would work well for an indoor set up. Due to naturally being prey animals, It's important for your bunny to have a space where they can feel safe and relax.I strongly recommend pen set ups when bunnies leave me to be house bunnies. Pens can fit into most spaces in homes, and keep a bunny secure with enough space to be in long term happily when not out playing. This is a much better alternative to shutting a bunny in a 3ft shop brought prison. Here are some styles of pens and the best examples of each style I could find:
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - HEAVY DUTY PUPPY PEN
Here is a link to a 158 x 158 x 120cm, 8 Piece heavy duty pen from Amazon. This pen is fantastic as it Is taller than average puppy pens standing at 120cm. The pen gives 26 sqft of area - however additional panels can be purchased and the pen is modular so can be rearranged to suit the layout of your 'bunny space'
Here is a link to a 158 x 158 x 120cm, 8 Piece heavy duty pen from Amazon. This pen is fantastic as it Is taller than average puppy pens standing at 120cm. The pen gives 26 sqft of area - however additional panels can be purchased and the pen is modular so can be rearranged to suit the layout of your 'bunny space'
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - APEX ROOF PEN
Next up is Vivapet rabbit run with a apex roof. This pen is 180cm x 75cm; the advantage of this set up is that it has a roof. This gives piece of mind that the bunny stays contained and safe- perfect if you have cats.
Next up is Vivapet rabbit run with a apex roof. This pen is 180cm x 75cm; the advantage of this set up is that it has a roof. This gives piece of mind that the bunny stays contained and safe- perfect if you have cats.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - C & C GRIDS
C&C Grids; These square grids are amazing for being creative and making your own set up design! They are modular; meaning they can be rearranged to suit your space, and you can also purchase additional panels to expand your set up! I would recommend your set up to be at least 2, if not 3 panels high, and for extra security, you may find creating a roof to be beneficial if you have any escapee bunnies!
C&C Grids; These square grids are amazing for being creative and making your own set up design! They are modular; meaning they can be rearranged to suit your space, and you can also purchase additional panels to expand your set up! I would recommend your set up to be at least 2, if not 3 panels high, and for extra security, you may find creating a roof to be beneficial if you have any escapee bunnies!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - METAL PLAY PEN
These pens are a good value option if you would like to section of area in the house. The modular panels can create various shapes for your bunnies home. The grids provide great places too hook on toys and waterbottles etc. The downside to these pens are they can be quite flimsy if they are not properly distributed/balanced; however, they can create nice large spaces for your bunny to thrive.
These pens are a good value option if you would like to section of area in the house. The modular panels can create various shapes for your bunnies home. The grids provide great places too hook on toys and waterbottles etc. The downside to these pens are they can be quite flimsy if they are not properly distributed/balanced; however, they can create nice large spaces for your bunny to thrive.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - METAL 4ft TALL PLAY PEN
These pens are a good value option if you would like to section of area in the house. The modular panels can create various shapes for your bunnies home. The grids provide great places too hook on toys and waterbottles etc. The downside to these pens are they can be quite flimsy if they are not properly distributed/balanced; however, they can create nice large spaces for your bunny to thrive. This is a good option if you are bonding your bunnies. As the pen sides are so high it works well for side by side set ups. Bunnies can jump HIGH!
These pens are a good value option if you would like to section of area in the house. The modular panels can create various shapes for your bunnies home. The grids provide great places too hook on toys and waterbottles etc. The downside to these pens are they can be quite flimsy if they are not properly distributed/balanced; however, they can create nice large spaces for your bunny to thrive. This is a good option if you are bonding your bunnies. As the pen sides are so high it works well for side by side set ups. Bunnies can jump HIGH!
Hutches
Hutches are most commonly used for bunnies. Whilst they remain a popular option, there are many on the market that are not suitable for rabbit use. The minimum I would suggest is 5x2ft however 6ft+ is preferred. You can never give a bunny too much space. I'd also strongly recommend that you attach a run to the hutch so that the bunny/bunnies get to maximise their space. Bunnies LOVE to binky and play! I would personally recommend keeping your hutch indoors, In a shed or in an enclosed aviary for extra security.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - HOME AND ROOST 5FT DOUBLE TIER
These are a really good quality, sturdy hutches. This company makes compatible runs which fit wonderfully to extend your bunnies living space. The company also sells, well made, covers to protect your bunnies from the elements. Each their is just under 2ft high giving your bunny too to stretch, and 2 ft deep.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP- HOME AND ROOST 6FT DOUBLE TIER
Luxury, spacious space for bunnies to live; suitable for a bonded pair or trio with the added XL run. These hutches are fantastic quality for outdoor use and as stated above, the company also does matching hutch covers.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP- PETS AT HOME BLUEBELL XL (6FT)
These hutches are great, as they are 6ft long each their, but also have 2 solid hutch doors to provide a nice space space for your bunnies. These hutches are suitable for a pair of bunnies, providing they have a run attached or adequate run tie daily.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - PETS AT HOME BLUEBELL (5FT)
Probably the most common hutch for bunnies. At 5ft each tier, these hutches give your bunnies a nice amount of space to hop around. You should add a run to this to ensure your bunnies have enough space.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - 2M X 3M X 2M GALVANISED AVIARY
Though this isn't a 'Hutch' as such, its perfect for a hutch (for example) to be inside, open, as an extension of space for the bunnies. This aviary should be secured round the edges to prevent foxes etc. This would be amazing with added castles (I recommend these)
These are a really good quality, sturdy hutches. This company makes compatible runs which fit wonderfully to extend your bunnies living space. The company also sells, well made, covers to protect your bunnies from the elements. Each their is just under 2ft high giving your bunny too to stretch, and 2 ft deep.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP- HOME AND ROOST 6FT DOUBLE TIER
Luxury, spacious space for bunnies to live; suitable for a bonded pair or trio with the added XL run. These hutches are fantastic quality for outdoor use and as stated above, the company also does matching hutch covers.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP- PETS AT HOME BLUEBELL XL (6FT)
These hutches are great, as they are 6ft long each their, but also have 2 solid hutch doors to provide a nice space space for your bunnies. These hutches are suitable for a pair of bunnies, providing they have a run attached or adequate run tie daily.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - PETS AT HOME BLUEBELL (5FT)
Probably the most common hutch for bunnies. At 5ft each tier, these hutches give your bunnies a nice amount of space to hop around. You should add a run to this to ensure your bunnies have enough space.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - 2M X 3M X 2M GALVANISED AVIARY
Though this isn't a 'Hutch' as such, its perfect for a hutch (for example) to be inside, open, as an extension of space for the bunnies. This aviary should be secured round the edges to prevent foxes etc. This would be amazing with added castles (I recommend these)
Bunny Sheds
If you chose to house your bunny/bunnies outdoors then I strongly suggest investing in a shed. These can be very similar sizes to a hutch, yet almost triple the floor space ensuring enough space to jump, binky and flop. There are lots of options on the market to house bunnies in sheds. From DIY plain shed, to fully furnished sheds with a connecting aviary!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - MPH FREEDOM BOTHY (12FT X 7FT)
These sheds are fantastic quality; and provide your bunnies with a large, spacious home. The shed provides both an indoor area and an outdoor area so your bunnies get the best of both worlds! The levels make the most of the footprint, this is the perfect shed for enriching your furry friends lives!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP -MPH BUDGET BUNNY BOTHY (6FT X 3FT)
The perfect home for your bunnies, especially if you are on a budget, similar to the freedom bothy, this shed makes the most of the floor plan, including a second half level! At 6ft x 3ft this shed would be perfect to add a run. It even includes option to add a doorway compatible with 'Run Around Runs' tunnels.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - 6FTX4FT GARDEN SHED
This shed, is a blank canvas for creativity. It is a standard 6ftx4ft shed. I would suggest creating a second level to maximise space, and add a entryway to connect a run. This is a fantastic solution if you are on a budget as the shed itself is £187.99
These sheds are fantastic quality; and provide your bunnies with a large, spacious home. The shed provides both an indoor area and an outdoor area so your bunnies get the best of both worlds! The levels make the most of the footprint, this is the perfect shed for enriching your furry friends lives!
CLICK HERE TO SHOP -MPH BUDGET BUNNY BOTHY (6FT X 3FT)
The perfect home for your bunnies, especially if you are on a budget, similar to the freedom bothy, this shed makes the most of the floor plan, including a second half level! At 6ft x 3ft this shed would be perfect to add a run. It even includes option to add a doorway compatible with 'Run Around Runs' tunnels.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP - 6FTX4FT GARDEN SHED
This shed, is a blank canvas for creativity. It is a standard 6ftx4ft shed. I would suggest creating a second level to maximise space, and add a entryway to connect a run. This is a fantastic solution if you are on a budget as the shed itself is £187.99
Exercise Pens/Runs
CLICK HERE TO SHOP FOR EXERCISE RUNS
The Accessories- What Do I Need?
Below I have created Amazon lists with recommended products for your bunnies. I have covered a range of items from Litter trays to toy to plush beds!
LITTER TRAYS- CLICK HERE TO SHOP LITTER TRAYS
When choosing a litter tray for your bunny, you should take into consideration the size, shape and anticipate that your bunny will like to dig in it so higher sides are desirable! I do not recommend corner litter trays that many pet stores sell, due to the shape. This makes it more likely for bunnies to pee over the edge, and the sizing often not being big enough for two plus bunnies to comfortably fit together. I also recommend litter trays with a built in hay rack; such as the ones Manor Pet Housing sell- CLICK HERE
When choosing a litter tray for your bunny, you should take into consideration the size, shape and anticipate that your bunny will like to dig in it so higher sides are desirable! I do not recommend corner litter trays that many pet stores sell, due to the shape. This makes it more likely for bunnies to pee over the edge, and the sizing often not being big enough for two plus bunnies to comfortably fit together. I also recommend litter trays with a built in hay rack; such as the ones Manor Pet Housing sell- CLICK HERE
HAY RACKS - CLICK HERE TO SHOP HAY RACKS
I strongly recommend having multiple hay racks, including one above your litter tray, my bunnies each have 2, if not 3 hay racks in their hutches. It is very important for hay to be accessible at all times as hay contributes up to 80% of a bunnies diet. I personally use the screw in hay racks on the Amazon list, and also use 'Hay Drums'
I strongly recommend having multiple hay racks, including one above your litter tray, my bunnies each have 2, if not 3 hay racks in their hutches. It is very important for hay to be accessible at all times as hay contributes up to 80% of a bunnies diet. I personally use the screw in hay racks on the Amazon list, and also use 'Hay Drums'
WATER BOTTLES- CLICK HERE TO SHOP WATER BOTTLES
It is a controversial topic whether bunnies are better to have a water bottle or a bowl. On one hand, the bowl makes it easier and faster for water consumption, however can get very dirty easily and often spill. Whereas bottle keep the water fresh and clean, though some bunnies may find it irritating if the water doesn't come out fast enough!
My bunnies use 'sippy' bottles, (as well as a small bowl) where the water comes out much faster than the generic water bottles you see at pet stores (3rd pic along). If you are undecided whether a bottle or a bowl is best- why not go for this product from Manor Pet Housing which is a gravity water bowl that is elevated from the ground so that it doesn't get as dirty as bowls!
It is a controversial topic whether bunnies are better to have a water bottle or a bowl. On one hand, the bowl makes it easier and faster for water consumption, however can get very dirty easily and often spill. Whereas bottle keep the water fresh and clean, though some bunnies may find it irritating if the water doesn't come out fast enough!
My bunnies use 'sippy' bottles, (as well as a small bowl) where the water comes out much faster than the generic water bottles you see at pet stores (3rd pic along). If you are undecided whether a bottle or a bowl is best- why not go for this product from Manor Pet Housing which is a gravity water bowl that is elevated from the ground so that it doesn't get as dirty as bowls!
HIDES & CASTLES- CLICK HERE TO SHOP HIDES & CASTLES
Bunnies naturally love to jump and hide, in any set up, I strongly recommend having a area where bunnies can exhibit their natural behaviours to jump and play! Asides from the ones I have found on Amazon; Manor Pet Housing have a fantastic range of castles and other amazing wooden houses.
Bunnies naturally love to jump and hide, in any set up, I strongly recommend having a area where bunnies can exhibit their natural behaviours to jump and play! Asides from the ones I have found on Amazon; Manor Pet Housing have a fantastic range of castles and other amazing wooden houses.
BUNNY BEDS- CLICK HERE TO SHOP BUNNY BEDS
Here are a collection of bunny beds! Bunnies do not need theses plush beds but they are nice place for bunnies to flop! Some bunnies like to go potty on plush beds however a few of my bunnies love sleeping them! IKEA does a fab doll bed that works fabulous for bunnies- CLICK HERE
Here are a collection of bunny beds! Bunnies do not need theses plush beds but they are nice place for bunnies to flop! Some bunnies like to go potty on plush beds however a few of my bunnies love sleeping them! IKEA does a fab doll bed that works fabulous for bunnies- CLICK HERE
TOYS - CLICK HERE TO SHOP BUNNY TOYS
Bunnies love a range of toys, from balls, gnaw toys to tunnels and stacking cups! Different toys, help bunnies exhibit natural behaviours in different ways- so its always good of bunnies to have as many toys as possible! I like mine to have at least 5 at any given time!
Bunnies love a range of toys, from balls, gnaw toys to tunnels and stacking cups! Different toys, help bunnies exhibit natural behaviours in different ways- so its always good of bunnies to have as many toys as possible! I like mine to have at least 5 at any given time!
FOOD BOWLS- CLICK HERE TO SHOP FOOD BOWLS
Bunnies will practically eat out of any bowl, or even bowl! I find ceramic bowls best with my bunnies, as they find them harder to tip over and cannot be chewed. I also found a few plastic feeders of amazon which include hay feeders- though too small for a days hay supply, this idea is good as it's an extra hay rack!
Bunnies will practically eat out of any bowl, or even bowl! I find ceramic bowls best with my bunnies, as they find them harder to tip over and cannot be chewed. I also found a few plastic feeders of amazon which include hay feeders- though too small for a days hay supply, this idea is good as it's an extra hay rack!
GROOMING - CLICK HERE TO SHOW GROOMING SUPPLIES
It is important to keep your bunnies coat nice and slick, remove any dead fur when you can. Bunnies go through moults at various times of the year so in this period they will need to be groomed more frequently.
It is important to keep your bunnies coat nice and slick, remove any dead fur when you can. Bunnies go through moults at various times of the year so in this period they will need to be groomed more frequently.
