by Stacy Kaaki

Created on: June 11, 2009

Many people look forward to summer and the warm weather it brings; however, warm weather can be hard on rabbits. Outdoor rabbits require extra care to ensure their comfort and safety when temperatures rise above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rabbits in the wild normally burrow during the day and stay out of the hot weather. They come out at dawn and dusk to eat. By retreating to the cool underground burrows during the heat of the day, they can live comfortably during the hottest summer months. Pet rabbits, however, are limited in their movement by the cages or hutches they are provided by their human caretakers. It is important to see that they are able to cool off, since their natural method of cooling off by burrowing is not available to them.

Shade is the most important factor and should be the first thing that is considered in placing the rabbit outdoors. A rabbit should never be placed in direct sun, where it can quickly overheat and die. The outdoor hutch or cage should have adequate shelter from the sun and wind, and should provide shelter from predators. It should have a solid roof and at least two solid sides which attach in one corner. Adequate ventilation is required on two sides and underneath.

Water should be readily available at all times. Rabbits will consume more water during the hot weather than during the cooler months, so be sure to check your rabbit's water supply often to ensure that clean water is always available. Crocks, rather than water bottles attached to the cage side, can serve two purposes during the summer. They offer a cool surface to lay against, while holding the day's supply of water. Water bottles attached to the cage side do not serve this dual purpose and can clog up, cutting off the rabbit's water supply.

Frozen water bottles make a great personal cooling system. Place a 12 oz or 16 oz water bottle in the freezer overnight to freeze solid. During the day, place the frozen water bottle in the cage with the rabbit. A hot rabbit will seek relief by lying next to the frozen bottle to cool its body.

Cold ceramic or stone tiles can also provide a nice place for the rabbit to rest and lower its body temperature. A commercially available granite tile called a Chin-Chiller is being marketed and sold as a chinchilla or rabbit cooling tile. They can be cooled in the refrigerator and then placed in the rabbit's cage for a nice cool resting spot. A regular granite floor tile will work just as well, and is easily found at most home improvement stores.

Misters attached to an outdoor water hose can cool the ambient air temperature by 20 degrees or more. Water from the hose is forced through tiny nozzles in the attached mister and forms tiny water droplets that are evaporated before they hit the ground. This evaporation lowers the temperature in the air, thereby cooling the surrounding area. By adding a fan, you can direct this cooler air towards the rabbit's cage or hutch and provide a much more comfortable environment.

Signs of an overheated rabbit are listlessness, panting, blue lips, tongues or ears, and wet noses and chins. An overheated rabbit should be treated immediately or death can occur. Quickly bring the rabbit's temperature down by placing the rabbit in tepid or cool (not cold) water, while holding its head above the water, for a few minutes. If the rabbit does not show improvement within a couple of minutes, seek immediate medical attention.

Following these tips can help ensure that your rabbit has a comfortable and safe summer.

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