I have 2 gorgeous Lionhead Rabbits. They live in a wooden wendyhouse that’s been converted into a rabbit hutch – however it was done quite some time ago and I think it’s time it was renovated. Has anybody done anything similar, and if so – what has worked / not worked? Any tips?
I’ve uploaded a picture of the hutch as it was when we first did it (the ramps have got wood on so they can grip) As you can see it’s quite basic – just some ramps and platforms. The Perspex windows were removed and wire mesh put in instead. There’s a little window box on one window which I grow herbs / dandelions etc and the rabbits nibble as the plants go through the window. I’ve got a problem in that driving rain seems to come in around the door so need to do something about that.
What I think we’re missing is hiding places – although they can get under the platforms I don’t think it’s secluded enough. They have a cardboard box which they like to hide in, but it does eventually get chewed, so I’d like something more permanent. I’m thinking about putting some board under the lower platform, leaving it open at each end so they can run through, then building a box to go under the higher platform. I’m thinking of making it a “cavity wall” sort of box so it’s nice and snug in winter. Should I stuff the gap with anything or just leave it empty?
I also want to build an outdoor run – our garden is on an angle, so the plot the wendyhouse is on is triangular. I’d like to build out a run to fill in the triangle and make the best use of the space. The run would wrap around 2 sides of the hutch, so I’m thinking of having 2 hatches so the buns can run in and out easily. I’m thinking the run should be quite high so they can binky. I’m also thinking of some sort of outdoor platform for bunny observation purposes. I’m also wondering about lining the bottom with those bricks with holes in so they can’t dig out but grass can grow through. Is this a good idea, and if so, how deep should I bury the bricks? What would be the best thing to put on the roof of the run? I’m thinking that ridged Perspex might be a good option but not sure. What would be the best way to build the structure so it’s sturdy? I want it to last. There is also a tree stump in the area I want to enclose – but I don’t know what tree it is (it was cut down before we moved in and the stump left). It would make a lovely addition for them to sit on, but I don’t know if there’s a chance it could be poisonous or anything. Should I try and remove it? I’d also like to get some terracotta planters for herbs and other things that I can move in and out.
For info, the occupants are four years old, one male, one female, both neutered rescues. My girl mostly likes to lounge around in the sunshine. My boy likes to be up on his back legs keeping an eye on things. He also likes to dig. If it helps, the hutch faces south, and the run would be on the east side, so it will get some sun in the morning and be shaded in the afternoon. There’s a window on the west side of the hutch so they get some sun inside. There’s a six foot fence to the side of where the run would be so there will always be some shade somewhere.
I’ve got lots of bits of wood lying around (DH is a carpenter but never does his day job at home!). I’ve also got a load of branches from an apple tree which I’d like to incorporate somehow. Any suggestions? I’m a bit rubbish at DIY but willing to have a go, and could probably persuade DH to help out with any really tricky bits. Money is very tight so I’d rather utilise what I’ve got where possible. I’d like to try and provide as natural as environment as possible and cater to their bunny needs.