by Angie Pollock

Created on: October 15, 2008   Last Updated: January 27, 2009

Rabbits can be wonderful companions to humans but just like humans, they need their privacy and space. These unique creatures not only enjoy the comfort of a small hiding place, they need a place where they can go to feel safe. Many new pet owners believe that a nest box is only for does that need a place to give birth and raise their young but these boxes play an important role for every rabbit, male and female.

With more and more individuals learning what a beautiful pet a rabbit makes, commercial rabbit products such as nesting boxes are being produced. The cost for some of these nest boxes are astronomical and many wouldn't hold up one week to the gnawing of an active rabbit. A rabbit nest box is simple to build and can be designed to fit your space and your rabbit.

The purpose for a nest box is to help a rabbit feel comfortable and safe, think more on the lines of cozy and warm, their secret little spot that belongs only to them. With cozy in mind, the nesting box should not be too large but large enough to fit your rabbit when full grown. There should be several inches of space inside the box for your rabbit to turn around after bedding has been placed inside the box. The entrance should accommodate your rabbit's body easily and the box should be accessible for proper cleaning. Building the box with one side to either open or be removed allows owners better access to the inside for cleaning.

What the box is made is extremely important since rabbits will chew almost anything including their nest box. Wood is the most popular choice for making a nest box but be prepared to build another box in your rabbit's future. We have built our nest boxes using thick one-inch plywood and they last for several years if other chewing alternatives are provided to our rabbits. Commercial nest boxes are sometimes built with metal sides and a wood floor or mesh is used to cover the wood. However, it is highly recommended to not purchase a plastic nest box, these will not hold up to a rabbits gnawing for any length of time.

Your rabbit will appreciate their new box with a few feature comforts added inside. Rabbits enjoy anything to keep them cozy in their box but remember, they will probably nibble at their bedding also. Straw or hay, shredded paper and even a small, soft blanket will make your rabbit feel snug as a bug in their little hideaway. Do not use cedar or pine bedding for rabbits as these are believed to cause respiratory disorders in rabbits.

If you need an immediate nest box for a new rabbit, a simple cardboard box will be welcomed by your new pet. While this box will not last for very long, it will provide a temporary hiding spot that your rabbit will need while adjusting to their new environment. Rabbits are natural burrowers, they need to feel secure and have an area that belongs to only them. A nest box fills all of those needs that are instinctive to them.

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