Winter Tips

     "Oh, the weather outside is frightful..." and winter is around the corner. Here are some ways to keep your rabbit safe, warm, and healthy through the winter months.

1. Place the hutch in an area out of direct sunlight, but one that will be well lit and warm during the day. Keep the hutch out of dark, wet areas and away from drafts, as a sudden change in temperature can be fatal to rabbits.

2. Most hand-built hutches have a hide-a-way box where the rabbit can escape during the coldest parts of the winter. If yours does not, you can build a small wooden box, just big enough for your rabbit to get in and turn around in. Stuff this area with straw and bedding, which your rabbit will use to build a nest. This and the rabbit's thick winter fur will keep him warm during the coldest days of the year.

3. Some people will run an old towel through the dryer for a few minutes. Once it is warm, you can take it out for your rabbit to snuggle with in his hutch. The towel won't hold it's warmth forever, but that coupled with your rabbit's body temperature will keep him warm for an afternoon.

4. A fresh supply of water during the winter is just as important to your rabbit as it is during the summer. Check the water bottle or dish daily. If it has frozen, bring it in and defrost under warm water. And don't be fooled! Even if the water in the bottle is still liquid, often times, the metal nozzle on the bottle will freeze shut. Make sure to check this several times daily and defrost if needed.