Rabbit Hutch

[matt]

Seems as though we're getting rabbits... 2 small-medium to be precise :?

Seems as though buying a decent hutch is likely to be cheaper than making one but I will have to make a run and build some trickery that will allow the bunnies to get from their hutch to the run which is out the back and down about 18".

So, to get to the point...

Best timber and/or preservative options (i.e. animal safe preservative)?

Cheers

 

[Shultzy]

Matt, I made mine as a panelled construction out of 2"x2" and 1/4" ply from B&Q. It had 2 coats of "fenceguard" and has lasted nearly 11 years although it looks a bit manky now. I used waterproof glue and screwed the legs on to the sides as they are usually the first to rot and are easier to replace or shorten. I used KD blocks to hold the roof on as its easier to replace the roof felt. Make the divider between the bedroom and living area removable as this makes it easier to clean out.

 

[TheTiddles]

The hutches at Pets at Home are ok, I'd consider keeping my pair in one, which is not something I'd consider with most hutches, price isn't too bad either. I have used ordinary B&Poo pine painted with Ronseal Garden Shades without any problems for 4 years now, they either don't like the taste or can't be bothered to chew it.

Aidan

 

[matt]

Finished (almost... got to get the slide bolts on the doors)...

 

[PowerTool]

Looks nice,and I'm sure it will be better built than a bought one

Andrew

 

[wizer]

Very nice. So you breed rabbits in it for a constant supply of stew? :twisted: :lol:

 

[Karl]

So you breed rabbits in it for a constant supply of stew? :twisted: :lol:

I suggested getting a "partner" for our rabbit for that very pupose, but SWMBO said it was illegal to breed rabbits (for eating, at any rate). Shame..........

Nice hutch BTW.

Cheers

Karl

 

[Grinding One]

Finished (almost... got to get the slide bolts on the doors)...

What the heck kind of rabbits are you tryin to raise??I had 10 Flemish Giants ,most weight in at 20 plus pounds and my cages were a little bit smaller I think...

 

[Mcluma]

I was thinkin the same, that is a very large hutch

Question

Do you have a lawn, or a grass patch

 

[wizer]

I don't think it looks too big. Whilst I am sure rabbits are not concerned with having high ceilings, the owner will appreciate the extra space to get in and clean out the raisins. :lol:

 

[Woodmagnet]

I don't think it looks too big. Whilst I am sure rabbits are not concerned with having high ceilings, the owner will appreciate the extra space to get in and clean out the raisins. :lol:

And you need raisins for x-mas cakes. :lol:

 

[matt]

Rabbits need enough space to stand on the rear legs (they like doing it apparently). The recommended minimum height is 2'. The roof slopes so I made the rear 2' and the front about 2'6. It's 6'6 long and 2.6 deep. I could have made the front 2' but thought they may prefer to stand up at the rear too...

The rabbits are loving it - lots of room to move around. Cleaning was a consideration too. It's got good access.

The last piece of work is to make a sleeping box in the sleeping compartment so they have something smaller (lower) to snuggle in to at night. It's going to have cavity walls lined with that silver faced insulation that I cannot think of the name of.

Most of the hutches sold by shops are too small.

 

[joiner_sim]

The bigger the better, rabbits can grow quite large. Also they need as much space as you can provide. Many of the hutches you can buy are really too small IMHO.

 

[Daven]

I agree ^

We have two rabbits and they have a two tear hutch with 4 'rooms' one they made their loo one their bedroom and have room to stretch. They have 12 hour access to a 12' x 6' outside pen, completely surrounded by 1/2" wire fencing.

To see them is a pleasure - not just a humped up sad looking animal in a box!

Oh and I do like rabbit stew - but they give me more pleasure as pets! :wink:

Dave

 

[Shultzy]

I agree Dave, the bigger the room the better. Our's had the run of the garden and the house and only recently passed away after nearly 11 years.