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Best Rabbit Houses

Patrick
by Patrick
Published:  January 14th, 2019

Rabbit houses and habitats are the places where your pet bunny will spend most of their time in. With that in mind, it doesn’t come as a surprise that your choice of housing for your four-legged companion will have a tremendous influence on the quality of their life. Inadequate housing can cause illnesses, behavioral issues and many other problems with your pet, so it’s crucial to pick out houses and habitats that will give them the living conditions they deserve. However, even when you have your pet’s best interest at heart, it’s not always easy finding ideal housing for them.

From a variety of cages, sheds, crates, runs, hutches and other models of rabbit houses and habitats, the right choice can easily get clouded by the sheer volume of available models on the market. PetGuide.com’s extensive buying guides and reviews of various houses and habitats for pet rabbits will help ensure you know exactly what you need to make your furry bestie happy and healthy. From determining the right size, materials, and location for your rabbit’s new habitat, PetGuide.com’s experts will have you covered through every step of the process. With our help, your bunny will truly enjoy their new crib!

Best Rabbit Houses

Features

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Prevue Hendryx 1097 Nature’s Hideaway Grass Hut Toy

    • Hand-woven grass activity center for your small pet.
    • Satisfies natural instincts to burrow, explore and nest.

Advantek The Stilt House Rabbit Hutch with Connected Run

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    • Stilted nesting box and outdoor enclosure gives rabbits safe and comfortable outdoor home.

Stilted nesting box and outdoor enclosure gives rabbits safe and comfortable outdoor home.

Spring Fever Rabbit Bed House

    • Short floss, soft and anti-slide, high-density foam-filled.
    • Anti-slide and soft clothing for your pet’s comfort, separated mat inside, very convenient to wash.

Kaytee Igloo Hideaway

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    • Made of durable plastic, igloos are easy to clean and stain resistant.

Made of durable plastic, igloos are easy to clean and stain resistant.

    • Encourages natural nesting instincts in small animals.

Petsfit Rabbit Indoor Hutch

Choosing a Rabbit House

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    • The hide out is big and roomie, good for rabbits and other small animals to hide and you could get them easily.

The hide out is big and roomie, good for rabbits and other small animals to hide and you could get them easily.

    • Side entrance on side is easy for pets to jump out for interaction with you.

Side entrance on side is easy for pets to jump out for interaction with you.

What type of houses and habitats you end up buying for your pet rabbits will mostly depend on whether you keep them indoors or in an adequate, rabbit-friendly space outside of your home. Naturally, the recommended option is to keep your pet inside, as the better living conditions and increased social interaction with their owners makes for a healthy and happy pet rabbit! However, even if you have a potty-trained rabbit that you let roam free in rabbit-proofed rooms of your home, getting them a house of their own where they could retreat to sleep, eat and have some alone time is definitely advised.

Rabbit House Basics

Regardless of whether you’re looking into houses and habitats as options for full-time or part-time living, you will have to follow some general rules to make sure everything is up to standards. The first factor any rabbit expert will tell you to pay attention to is the size of the rabbit habitat. The bigger the cage, hutch, or house are, the better! You can’t get them a habitat that’s too big, but a minimum is a cage where your bunny can stretch, sit, lie down and jump around freely and comfortably.

As a rule of thumb, this means that your pet’s cage should be at least 4 times bigger than their body. Additionally, good ventilation should be provided, too, which is why most houses and habitats have wire or mesh sides, regardless of their type. However, while high-quality wire sides are recommended, your indoor rabbit cage shouldn’t have wire floors. While touted as the option that’s easier to clean, wire floors in rabbit houses and habitats can lead to injury and discomfort. Rabbits who are kept in housing with wire-grate floors are bound to get sores on their feet, which can further lead to infection. Ideally, the bottom of the cage should be solid, covered with a layer of rabbit-friendly litter or bedding.

Outdoor Options

As for rabbits that are kept outside, there are additional requirements that need to be met. In addition, the basic care that indoor pet rabbits need, such as solid floors and spacious houses and habitats, rabbits that have outdoor housing must always be protected from the weather elements and potential predators. You can’t just pick out a rabbit run or a cage and leave them in your backyard.

While it’s not recommended to keep your rabbits outside your home if you want to keep them as family pets, there are some cases where this is the only option. In those instances, always opt for high-quality, sturdy, and durable housing. This includes robustly built rabbit hutches and rabbit shed as ideal choices. These structures are big enough for your pet and contain various areas that meet rabbit’s needs, such as an enclosed space for sleeping and free area for exploring and free movement.

Rabbit House Considerations

In addition to choosing (or building!) a perfect habitat for your rabbit, you’ll need to make sure you equip it with all the essentials. The bottom of the cage should be covered with litter or appropriate bedding. This will make it easier for you to clean your pet’s waste and ensure that walking and jumping about the habitat is not painful for them. Next, you’ll need the right feeder or a food bowl and a bowl for water (sipper bottles are a great option, too). To finish it off, make sure to pick out some cool rabbit gadgets and toys that will provide your pet bunny entertainment and help them keep their teeth in top shape. If this seems like a lot of things to keep track of, don’t worry- you’ll find all the information about accessories for rabbits and their habitats right here at PetGuide.com!

Whichever of the many houses and habitats you end up choosing for your pet bunny, you need to know that you can’t always keep them in there, no matter how spacious or comfortable space is. Bunnies need outdoors time and to be let out of the cage daily for some quality playtime and exploration of their surroundings. Making sure that they have plenty of time out of the cage in a safe area will be one of the most important things you need to do as their owner! Check out PetGuide.com’s resources on rabbit care for more information on what rabbits need as pets, and how to provide proper care to your new pet. From detailed information on various pet rabbit breeds to in-depth reviews of all the necessities you need for your bunny, from proper food to toys, our experts have got you covered!

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Do Dogs Cry Tears?

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Hypothermia in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

When a dog gets too cold, they’re at risk of hypothermia. But what is hypothermia, what are its symptoms, and what can be done to treat it? Below is a brief guide to dog hypothermia so you can have a better understanding of this condition and why it’s so important to prevent it.What Is Hypothermia in Dogs?Hypothermia develops when a dog’s body temperature drops to 99°F (37.2°C) or lower. A dog’s normal body temperature range is 99.5-102.5°F (37.5-39.2°C).There are three levels of hypothermia: mild, moderate, and severe.Mild hypothermia occurs when a dog’s body temperature is between 90-99°F (32.2-37.2°C).Moderate hypothermia develops when the dog’s body temperature falls even more, to 82-90°F (27.8-32.2°C).Severe hypothermia develops when the dog’s body temperature falls below 82°F (27.8°C).Giving a dog the right treatment to bring their temperature back up is critical, as hypothermia can cause damage to organs, and it could be fatal.  Some dogs may be at greater risk of hypothermia. Puppies, seniors, and dogs who are thin or small are a few examples. Dogs who are ill, including those with chronic conditions, can also be more susceptible. Also, hairless dogs and those with short coats are other examples.What Causes Hypothermia in Dogs?Dogs who are in the cold for too long are at risk of hypothermia. And if they get wet, their body temperature can drop more rapidly. Never leave a dog outside when it’s too cold or windy, or when it’s raining or snowing.It doesn’t have to be extremely cold for dogs to feel the effects either, as a temperature less than 45°F (7.2°C) could put some dogs at risk. Before going outside with your dog, check the wind chill, too, as this will give you a better idea of what it actually feels like out there, and what the risk of frostbite and hypothermia really is.    Also, certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism and shock, could increase a dog’s risk of hypothermia.Symptoms of Hypothermia in DogsAs a dog starts to feel cold, they’ll exhibit changes in behavior. Warming them up right away can prevent them from getting even colder. If hypothermia continues to set in, the situation will become more dire as the symptoms progress.Here are some of the symptoms to watch out for:Mild hypothermia may cause a dog to shiver and experience weakness. They may also be less alert, and may try to find ways to stay warm, such as curling in a ball. If you were to feel the dog’s skin, ears, paws, legs, and tail, they may be cold to the touch.Moderate hypothermia may cause the breathing to become shallow and slow, and the muscles may become stiff, resulting in difficulty moving. The blood pressure may drop, and the dog may be even more lethargic and confused. If you were to check the gums, they may be pale.  Severe hypothermia may cause the pupils to become fixed and dilated, and a dog may have trouble breathing. They may not be as responsive, or they may become unresponsive. Also, they may not be shivering anymore. Collapse and coma may occur.How to Help a Hypothermic DogThe symptoms of hypothermia must be taken seriously. Contact your veterinarian even if you think your dog might only have mild hypothermia, as they can provide guidance on what to do, and they might advise bringing your dog in to be examined and treated.In cases of severe hypothermia, a veterinarian will need to treat your dog, so don’t try to fix this problem yourself.Here are a few steps you can take if your dog has mild hypothermia (again, talk to your vet first to be sure you’re taking the right steps and you can treat this at home):Dry your dog if they’re wet. Bring them to a warm area of your home, such as near a heat source. Wrap them in a blanket—you could even warm it up in the dryer first. Use products like the PetFusion Microplush Quilted Pet Blanket, which is super soft and has a light fill that provides more warmth.

These Are the States With the Most Spoiled Doggos in 2023

With the holiday season fast approaching, it is the time for presents, cuddling, yummy meals and, to be honest, spoiling the one you love, including your four-legged bestie. But are there some pet parents that take it a bit too far, and if so, do we know in which states they live? If you are one of those owners who like to pamper their furry friend and spoil them to no end, stick around to find out who’s guilty of overindulging their doggo just like you!An interesting  Forbes Advisor survey estimates that around 22.2% of dog owners in the USA, or one in five, admit to having spent more money on  Christmas gifts for their dogs, rather than gifts for friends and family. This means that there are certainly some pampered and spoiled doggos to be found across the nation, but what is more interesting is that dog owners in certain states tend to spoil dogs more than in others. Now, after a nationwide survey, the results are in!With a score of 100 out of 100, Florida definitely wins as the state with the most spoiled dogs! The Sunshine State is reported to have around 66.5% of owners who spend more money on their dog’s health, grooming, and gifts, than on their own. They are also more likely to pamper dogs by perfuming them, pushing them in strollers, buying them clothes and gifts, or taking them to restaurants. Interestingly, the second place, and right behind Florida, is Alaska, with a score of 98.69 out of 100. Nearly half of all dog owners in this northerly state admit to regularly throwing birthday parties for their pooches, purchasing them special outfits, and even putting cologne on them. They too will spend more money on their pets than on themselves.Behind Florida and Alaska in places 1 and 2 respectively, are the following states:3. Washington - 91.82 out of 1004. Colorado - 82.04 out of 1005. California - 77.96 out of 1006. New Jersey - 77.52 out of 1007. Illinois - 77.23 out of 1008. Texas - 70.80 out of 1009. Delaware - 69.93 out of 10010. Virginia - 69.34 out of 100The survey also offered some indicators and activities that might suggest that you are spoiling your dog. If you regularly do some of these activities, you might be pampering your pooch as well!Taking family photos with the dog Ordering the dog a special treat at a restaurant Bringing the dog on vacationPushing the dog in a strollerSpending more money on the dog’s health and grooming than on their own Buying the dog outfits and accessoriesSo, what’s the result? Are you too on the list of owners who spoil their pets? Let us know!

Never Scoop Again With Litter-Robot, The Purrfect Gift For Cat Lovers

Cats like a clean litter box just as much as cat owners do, but scooping clumps can be a hassle. Whisker’s Litter-Robot, the highest-rated, self-cleaning litter box for cats, eliminates the need to scoop the litter box. The newest model, Litter-Robot 4, provides a clean bed of litter for your cats after every use. It features patented sifting technology that sifts out waste after every use and deposits it into a tightly-sealed waste drawer, helping to keep odor under control. For Black Friday, you can scoop one up for less, with $75 off bundles with the Purrfect Litter-Robot accessories you will want.What Sets the Litter-Robot Apart? Litter-Robot 4 features an advanced, patented, sifting technology with QuietSift™ for nearly-silent sifting. That’s right, you don’t have to scoop and you don’t hear the litter being sifted. What could be better?

Finney the Jack Russell Terrier Survives 72 Days Alone in Wilderness

Loyal after death, this mini-mutt remained at her owner's side until rescuers arrived.

42% of Pet Parents Feel Caring for Pets is More Stressful Than Kids!

Pets can be an incredible addition to any family, but they can also come with a bit of stress. In fact, a recent study revealed that nearly half of pet parents shared that caring for their pet was more stressful than caring for their partner or even their children! What is it about our pets that worries us the most? That was the goal of the recent survey conducted by OnePoll and ElleVet Sciences. They polled 2000 pet owners, asking them questions about their relationships, their pets, and the stress that they experience in their role. The answers revealed that the top three sources of stress in most people’s lives include their finances (54%), their job or career (49%), and their ability to care for their pets (42%). The survey went on to discuss reasons for being stressed about our pets, and there was one concern that the majority of respondents shared – as pet parents, we worry about our ability to provide the care our pets will need in their senior years. As our pets get older, their needs often change. We can see this in the way they act and the activities they engage in. A once hyperactive, high-energy dog may start to slow down and sleep more. A dog that easily jumped onto the couch most of their lives now requires stairs or a ramp to get up for cuddle time. Not all changes that come with aging are inherently bad, but 68% of parents say watching their pet age and suffer would be more hurtful to them than losing their job (61%) or breaking up with their partner (61%). “Supporting your pet through all stages of life can minimize their stress, allowing you to create more happy memories together,” shared Amanda Howland, co-founder and CCO of ElleVet Sciences. “As your pet gets older, it’s important to be proactive in identifying the signs of aging, such as difficulty moving, trouble sleeping, and social isolation. It’s all about more time, and more quality time with your pet, and for them, aging and stress are intertwined so taking care of discomfort-related aging and cognitive decline can reduce their stress significantly.” The concern shared by the survey respondents (and other pet parents nationwide) clearly illustrates how important our pets are in our lives. While 73% of those surveyed described their pet as their “protector,” they serve many other vital roles in our lives – our best friends, sounding boards, cheerleaders, motivators, and companions. Your senior pet may require some changes around the home. Throw rugs can be used to provide traction on slippery floors. Safety gates are key for blocking off unsafe areas like staircases that could lead to injury. Caring for our senior pets may be stressful, but it’s also an opportunity to repay our pets for everything they have given us throughout their lives. Even just setting aside time in your schedule each day for a walk around the block followed by a short cuddle on the couch can positively impact their lives, reducing stress and promoting better health. “Just like us, pets’ needs can change as they age, so their daily routines, diet, and exercise may need to be adjusted to improve their quality of life, as well as adding high-quality supplements,” Howland explained. “Small adjustments can ensure your pet’s golden years are less stressful for both themselves and their human companion.”

How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?

Spending time outside is very important for overall physical and mental health, both for humans and animals alike. Our pets, dogs especially, can be quite dependent on the time they spend outdoors. It helps stimulate them, keep them mobile and active, and also helps them spend all that extra energy they have stored which in turn impacts their behavior for the better. But as it is with everything in life, there is always too little and too much of a good thing. So in the end, it does make you wonder – just how much outdoor time does your dog need? And, can you really overdo it? Let’s find out!How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?The amount of outdoor time your dog needs can vary based on factors such as their breed, age, health, and individual preferences of your dog. It can’t really be the exact same for all dogs out there. Just like humans, some pooches have preferences of their own. Some love to snooze and relax, and aren’t really fans of going outside and zooming about. Others, however, can’t get enough of adventures in the great outdoors. Still, in general, all dogs require at least a small amount of daily outdoor exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. With that in mind, these are some main factors that could influence the amount of time your pet needs to spend outside of the house:BreedDifferent breeds have different energy levels and exercise requirements. High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers may need more outdoor time compared to lower-energy breeds like Bulldogs or Basset Hounds. As you get to know your pet and the specifics of their breed, this too will become apparent. AgeAge plays a major role in dog energy levels. Puppies generally have more energy and may require several short play and exercise sessions throughout the day. Adult dogs on the other hand usually need at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise per day, depending on the breed and individual needs, whereas seniors usually don’t have as much energy so one walk a day will do just fine for a pooch in his golden years.HealthDogs with certain health issues may have specific exercise restrictions. Consult with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate exercise plan for a dog with health concerns. Don’t overdo it with your dog, if the vet prohibits it. The same goes for seniors, who can’t really play all that much outside. SizeDog size is a big factor in determining energy levels and the need for outdoor fun. Smaller breeds may get sufficient exercise with a shorter walk or playtime, while larger breeds might need longer and more vigorous activities.Individual PreferencesSome dogs are more active and enjoy activities like fetching, running, or hiking, while others may be content with a shorter walk or playtime in the yard. On the other hand, some breeds, due to their inherent traits, might love relaxing outside, even when it's chilly. Others, though, will love the warmth and coziness found indoors. 

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