They need as much care in the summer months as all other pets when it comes to warm weather. So we have put together some handy tips that will hopefully help keep Flopsy and Mospy safe through the summer months.
Placing your rabbits hutch:
Rabbits are crepuscular, meaning they are mostly active at dawn and dusk. These twilight times of the day are cool. In the wild, rabbits stay in their dens during the warmest parts of the day in order to stay cool and avoid over heating. It is important to provide our rabbits with living conditions which allow them to stay cool and safe during the warmer months.
Make sure your rabbit’s hutch is out of direct sunlight throughout the day. This may mean moving the hutch under a shady tree, into a ventilated shed or, if it is a house rabbit, away from the window. A wooden cage is more suitable than a metal one during the summer months because metal retains heat. Having a fan blowing where your rabbit is housed can be a good way to provide some ventilation for them.
If your rabbit has an outdoor run, make sure some parts are well shaded. Freezing water in plastic bottles to place in your rabbit’s run or hutch will provide them with something cool to rest against.
Keeping your rabbits water cool
Your rabbit’s water will need regular topping up and frequent changing to keep it fresh over the summer months. It is better to provide water in a ceramic dish, as metal from water feeders or metal dishes will retain heat. A handy tip is to keep more than one water dish for your rabbit. If you place the spare one in the freezer to keep cool, you will always have a cold dish ready when you need to change the water.
Keeping the flies away
Keeping your rabbit’s hutch clean during the summer months is essential. Removing stale vegetables and regularly clearing out dirty hay and straw will help to minimise flies and mould.
Author: STUART EDGAR
OSCAR Pet Foods Carlisle offer a wide range of foods for dogs, cats in order to cater for your pet's needs throughout their lives. Diets include grain free, gluten free, weight control and joint care support. Contact Stuart Edgar on 01228 658143 or Mobile: 07486 457 237, or visit www.oscar.co.uk for more information.
