Rabbits on the grass

Hello,
I have a Q about my 2 rabbits and guineapig....
They are currently in an all in one cage with a large run area (at the bottom) and a smaller cosy bed area above. The cage is on a paved section of my garden.
I am having some work done in the garden and am wondering if it is ok to transfer the cage onto a grassed area instead?
I am not sure if it is the right thing to do because it would mean that when it rained (although I would always cover the cage to make sure it stayed as dry as possible) the grass would be wet, and also it would just get damp since it is coming up for winter.
They would be able to go up into the top section of the cage to stay dry and warm, but if they wanted to go down when it was wet, they would get wet feet (and the guineapig would get a wet belly).
Also, the cage does not have a bottom on it, and I have heard that rabbits can dig, so if it was on the grass, would the rabbits be able to burrow out and escape?

Any advice on the best place to put the cage (grass, paved area, or under the pergola) would be greatly appreciated! Also, where would be the best place to have them for the winter? do they need to be inside? or is a covered area ok?

Thanks every-one! :-)

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25 Nov 2008 09:56

Sarah Spencer

if you are worried about them digging you could try laying some paving slabs round the outside of the base of the cage, abutting the base of the run. this means that if they do dig they are less likely to get out as they will have to dig much further and deeper to get under the slabs. if you keep an eye on the area daily you will be able to see if they have started digging and could then move the whole hutch / run if need be. it is nice for them to have access to the grass as it is more natural for them but if they have not had free access to grass then you might want to watch they don´t over indulge at first and get upset tummies - this time of year it shouldn´t be such a risk though as the grass is not as rich as it is in spring time.

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24 Nov 2008 20:29

Cat the Vet

Hi,

I wouldn´t worry at all about them getting a bit wet, both rabbits and guinea pigs are designed in live in cold climates, so they will cope fine as long as they have somewhere warm and dry to retreat to. You will have to keep an eye on the rabbits for digging out, make sure they have plenty to keep them occupied in the cage, like toys and chews. Also, once you have moved them to grass, don´t forget to keep an eye on their nails. Paving has a scraping effect like a nail file which keeps them short but grass is much softer.

They should be fine outside in the winter, like I said, they do come from cold climates, but ensure that the bedded area is well covered and protected from drafts.

Cat

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