Rabbit Runs
Rabbit runs provide a secure outside space in which your rabbit can exercise. Exercise is vital for your rabbit’s physical and mental health. There are a few types of rabbit run available. An integrated hutch and run will allow your rabbit to be indoors or outdoors at any time. Runs are also sold separately, and you can then place your rabbit in the run for exercise at times that you choose.
Most rabbit runs are either made from a stainless steel wire or a wooden frame with mesh covering. The wire runs can be sold in a panel format which enables you to add on panels to the run and change the size as you require. The wire enclosures will need to be pinned down securely to the ground as they are much lighter in comparison to the runs constructed from wood. Runs made from a wooden frame have a mesh covering them, and this mesh should be affixed to the inside of the wood as this will help to prevent the rabbit from chewing the wood. The mesh should be strong enough to withstand any chewing (from both rabbit and foxes) and the size of the mesh holes needs to be small to prevent rats, mink and other predators from getting in.
Rabbit runs can be bought in different shapes. An apex triangular run is often designed with an enclosed shelter area at one end. The apex runs can be limited with the amount of space that they provide, but they can be a useful method of giving your rabbit secure access to fresh grass. More spacious designs of run include shapes such as square, rectangular, hexagonal or octagonal. Runs are available that are similar to aviaries, and the advantage of these is that the run is tall enough for you to walk inside and stand upright. This height gives you a run that is more comfortable and convenient for you to use, especially when retrieving your rabbit. There are even luxury runs designed with multiple levels and ramps for your rabbit.
Rabbit runs need to provide protection from predators and they need to contain the rabbit inside the run. It is therefore important that runs have a covering on top of them. The roof can be wire or netting, or a heavy canvas with a section of transparent covering to allow in some sunlight. There are wire runs available with no roof, but these will need constant supervision if your rabbit is to remain safe. A section of the roof of the run should also provide shade cover from the sun. Some runs have a shelter or an enclosed section included. A shelter will provide protection from all weathers, and will also be somewhere for the rabbit to retreat to and feel safe if needed.
Another point to consider when buying a run is whether it is easy to assemble. Some runs can be folded down and stored easily. Access to the run is also important for you and some have both side and top doors.
Rabbits & Exercise
Rabbits need to exercise in order to maintain good physical health and positive mental health. A lack of exercise can lead to aggression, depressed mood, weight and health problems. Providing a run for your rabbit will give them room to stretch and hop around. The minimum recommended size for a rabbit run is 6' x 4'. The run should be tall enough for your rabbit to stand upright fully.
If the run is attached to the hutch your rabbit will be able to go outside at any time. If your run is separate then you should aim for a minimum of four hours per day for your rabbit to be outside. Runs should be used during the day, with your rabbit returned to the hutch at night. Remember to provide your rabbit with water and food if in a separate run.
Rabbits can dig, so you will need to take steps to prevent this. You will need to place the run on a hard surface, place wire under the ground or purchase a run with a strong mesh floor. These methods should prevent your rabbit from escaping and foxes and vermin from digging their way in. If you move your run onto fresh grass, take care to look out for poisonous plants. Take care not to treat your grass with chemicals that can be harmful to animals.
As rabbits like to be entertained you can provide them with toys and objects to chew on, tunnels to walk through and boxes to climb on. Rabbits are sociable and like company so take time to give your rabbit attention and enjoy playing together.
Top Shops for Rabbit Runs
Choose from the recommended UK stores below for the best online ranges of rabbit runs.
PetPlanet
All kinds of rabbit runs and hutches for all budgets at PetPlanet. See the range now.
