Setting Up a Bunny Cage

Setting up a bunny cage is an essential first step for any rabbit owner. This process goes beyond simply placing your new companion in a box; it involves thorough planning, a keen understanding of your rabbit’s needs, and careful selection of materials to create a safe and comfortable habitat. When you set up a rabbit cage, consider factors like space requirements, flooring, ventilation, and access to food and water. Rabbits are naturally active and curious, so it’s vital to provide enough room to hop and explore, as well as enclosed areas for rest. Proper bedding made from paper-based materials can help keep the enclosure clean and odor-free. By integrating interactive toys and ramps, you encourage mental stimulation and exercise. Ultimately, a well-designed cage not only safeguards your pet’s health and happiness but also makes rabbit care simpler and more rewarding for you. Following these proven strategies ensures a nurturing environment.

Are you going to be adopting a bunny soon? Congratulations! You’ve certainly chosen an adorable pet. Although your furry little pal will need several hours of free time daily, it is important to make sure that she has a comfortable cage. Here, a Fort Myers, FL vet offers some tips on getting Floppy’s cage ready for her.

Bigger Is Better

When preparing to set up a rabbit cage, select the largest option available to ensure your bunny has ample space to move freely. The cage should offer enough room for hopping, standing, stretching, and sprawling without the risk of the rabbit bumping into its own belongings or the enclosure’s walls. We also recommend getting one with a solid floor. Wire floors won’t keep substrate in, and they can cause paw injuries.

Keep Floppy Indoors

Pets are part of the family! Your bunny will be happier, healthier, and safer living indoors with her humans. Keep Floppy’s home indoors.

Get Good Substrate

One thing new rabbit owners often get confused about is substrate. Many substrate brands contain pine or cedar, which really aren’t safe for small animals. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Consider A Litterbox

While rabbits don’t take to litterboxes as easily as cats do, they can be trained to use them. This training may take some time, but will definitely be worth it.

Add A Hidey Hole

Rabbits are quite sociable, but they are also naturally timid. Make sure Floppy has a comfy hide box to retreat to if she’s feeling frightened or sleepy.

Choose The Right Location

To effectively set up a rabbit cage, selecting the ideal location is pivotal. Don’t put Floppy’s cage in direct sunlight, or in a spot with a lot of drafts. Loud areas, such as a place near a TV, stereo, or drum kit, are also best avoided. Ideally, the cage should be in a place that is quiet and comfortable. Look for somewhere that your pet can see and hear you, but won’t be stuck in the middle of the household traffic.

Add Toys

Bunnies are very playful. They also need to chew a lot. Make sure that Floppy has plenty of toys to bat around, including lots of suitable chew toys. You can make your furry friend’s playthings out of many cardboard, wicker, and paper items. Ask your vet for more information.

How to Set Up a Rabbit Cage for Comfort and Safety in 2025

What’s the best technique for litter training?

A consistent, gentle approach speeds up litter training. Start by placing the bunny in a smaller space with the litter box in a corner. Fill the box with paper-based litter topped with fresh hay, since many rabbits enjoy nibbling while eliminating. When the bunny uses the box, offer praise or a small treat. If droppings appear elsewhere, move them to the box. Avoid any sudden changes or punishments, which can create fear and confusion. Keep the area clean but leave a few droppings in the litter to reinforce the habit. Gradually expand play space after the rabbit reliably returns to the box.

How big should the exercise area be?

Bunnies thrive with an exercise space that lets them hop, stretch, and stand on their hind legs without touching enclosure walls or the ceiling. Aim for an area at least four times the adult rabbit’s size, offering enough length for multiple body-length hops in every direction. This setup supports healthy muscle and bone development while cutting down on boredom and stress. Solid flooring helps protect paws and keeps bedding contained. Provide safe chew toys, tunnels, and hideouts to encourage play. Regular access to this space throughout the day boosts digestion and overall well-being.

What are the pros and cons of different cage materials?

Wire-sided cages promote good airflow, but floors constructed solely from wire may cause paw discomfort or injuries. Solid plastic floors offer a smoother surface that protects feet and helps contain bedding more effectively, although they can build up odors if not cleaned regularly. Wood-based cages, often homemade, provide sturdy shelter but can absorb moisture and become unsanitary over time unless sealed properly. A metal-framed enclosure with a plastic base often balances durability, ease of cleaning, and comfort. Maintaining a dry, ventilated area with chew-friendly toys and safe bedding supports overall health, no matter which design is used.

What are the specific concerns for outdoor housing?

Outdoor housing exposes rabbits to temperature extremes, predators, parasites, and social isolation from household activities. Constant exposure to environmental fluctuations can lead to stress and illness. Predators such as hawks, neighborhood dogs, or raccoons may injure or terrorize them. Damp or dirty outdoor environments can quickly become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria, resulting in potential infections and respiratory issues. Regular human interaction is reduced, limiting daily supervision for signs of illness or injury. For these reasons, placing a rabbit indoors is safer, promotes social bonding, and helps ensure consistent observation and care.

Are multi-level cages beneficial for rabbits?

Multi-level enclosures offer rabbits extra vertical space to explore and satisfy their natural curiosity. Additional ramps and platforms can promote exercise while helping maintain healthy muscles and bones. Look for designs that feature solid floors to protect delicate paws from wire-related injuries, and ensure each level provides enough headroom for comfortable hopping and stretching. Place a cozy retreat area in a quieter corner to help rabbits feel secure. By combining proper substrate, chew-friendly toys, and a balanced layout, these setups support physical wellbeing and mental enrichment for a happier, healthier bunny.

As your Fort Myers, FL vet clinic, we’re dedicated to offering great care. Please contact us anytime!