Winterizing rabbit hutch

[sonnythebunny]

I have covered the hutch with a tarp,is that enough?
it gets about 40-50 (ferinheight) (did I spell that right?) during the night and 50-60 during the da, is that cold for a rabbit? (she is a holland lop)
thanks for looking

 

[LadyIsabelle2011]

That is actually pretty mild weather to a rabbit. From what I understand most adult rabbits handle the cold really well, even to single digit temps. A tarp will help keep the wind out, so that is a very good move, make sure she has plenty of good hay to snuggle in too, and if you are really worried you could put up a heat lamp, just make sure she, or the hay can't touch it.

 

[sonnythebunny]

she is about 3 months old, does that make any difference?
(how old is a full grown holland lop?)

edit: is alfalfa considered hay?

 

[Prairiechick]

If you want to cover to keep wind out, that is good, but leave one side open for good air-flow. If it gets too stuffy or damp in the hutch, you might start having some problems with keeping your bunny happy and healthy. Damp cages/pens for small animals is the kiss of death. Your bunny can handle the temps, so don't worry it is getting too cold. Remember, they wear a fur coat year-around.

 

[sawfish99]

We have 35-50 rabbits outside (in CT) at any given time. Every cage has at least 1 side open to the air, and we have never had one freeze. It's in the 20s here right now.

 

[sonnythebunny]

thanks for replying, but one other thing, she is not drinking much water.

 

[sawfish99]

It is normal for rabbits to consume less water in the winter. Ours go through over a quart a day in the summer but maybe a pint in the winter (large meat rabbits).