You are going to adopt your rabbit and, before that, you must choose a cage that is perfectly suited to him. Which model ? What size ? What materials? How best to garnish it so that he feels good inside?

A rabbit does not constantly live in a cage like a hamster or a fish (in an aquarium) does. Your rabbit will only be more fulfilled to be able to roam wherever it pleases in your home, with each time the occupation under penalty of your furniture or tapestries being used as instruments with teeth.

What cage?

·         A constantly open cage

Your rabbit is not made to live locked in a cage. He will go to relieve himself, rest and eat, but he must be able to access the outside world without worry. Thus, his cage will have to be constantly open (with some exceptions) through a small opening.

·         Its dimensions

Your future rabbit’s cage should be large enough . It is recommended to install one of 1.80 meters by 60 cm at least. An essential surface so that your rabbit does not feel cramped and, above all, so that ventilation is done correctly.

·         Its composition

Avoid wood , which will quickly soak up your rabbit’s urine . In addition, your rodent will have to nibble the wood and the latter will be damaged very quickly. Prefer a cage with bars on the upper part. Never buy a cage with plastic walls . This material is dangerous for your rabbit. These walls can be in plexiglass even if they are not the best. Beware of aquarium -type cages that prevent air renewal for your rabbit, in addition to being very expensiveand hardly useful for your pet who does not spend all day in it.

·         Hay or bedding on the bottom

The wood in the bottom of the cage is to be avoided. Instead, put hay on your rabbit or a litter box as you would a cat. Thus, your rabbit will have to learn to relieve itself in this place. You can also line the bottom of the cage with cotton. Your rabbit will thus avoid any problem related to its paws.

·         Tiered cage(s)?

If you only have one rabbit , a tiered cage is not essential . On the other hand, she could go to a “couple” of rabbits.

The accessories

In his cage, your rabbit will have to find several essential accessories for his well-being.

• A hiding place so that your rabbit can have its own corner. He will take refuge there from time to time according to his moods.
• A litter box . As stated above, you can line the bottom of the cage with bedding. However, cleaning will be much easier with a box where your rabbit will have to learn to do its business in it. Opt for a vegetable litter and not made of wood chips. They are considered toxic to your cat.
• A bowl of food and another of water (or a bottle).
• A rack that will offer hay to your rabbit. It can be placed inside, in a corner, or outside if the cage is too narrow with all these elements.

What is a cage for your rabbit for?

Your rabbit’s cage will serve as a refuge, but also a place to eat. It will be used especially on the occasion:

• Transport . A round trip to your veterinarian for example, or a departure on vacation. Your rabbit will feel safe in its cage while in the car or on a train. Make sure the cage is always well ventilated. Your pet’s health is at stake.
• When your rabbit is sick or injured . The cage will serve as a place of convalescence .

The rabbit park?

The rabbit park is a semi-freedom enclosure . The only downside is the space . You will probably miss it in your home. For the rest, it is obviously better than a simple cage . This way, your rabbit won’t need to “leave” this area. The enclosure must be large enough and have several accessories to occupy your rodent (something to chew, play, etc.). Make sure the playpen is high enough so your rabbit can’t jump over the railings.

o prevent any incident, outside its cage or enclosure, be sure to hide all the electrical wires so that your rabbit does not get electrocuted by chewing on one of them.

In summary

Your rabbit doesn’t like being locked in a cage all day long. He needs space to spend himself and flourish. His cage must be used to transport him or in case of illness, but also as a refuge and place where he can eat and relieve himself.

Wooden cages are to be avoided, like aquariums where air circulation is difficult. In addition, you can opt for a rabbit park. A semi-freedom enclosure that will be the perfect compromise between a cage and total freedom.