Our Rabbit Ranch

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It is imperative that rabbits are properly cared for during times of extreme heat. They are extremely sensitive to temperatures above 85 degrees and can easily get sick, and even die, if not diligently monitored.  

All of us here at Weeks Outdoors stay busy all day trying to keep our rabbits comfortable during times of extreme heat.  

First and foremost, plenty of fresh, cold water must be provided at all times. We use hanging bottles and water bowls so there is plenty for them to drink and we are regularly adding ice cubes to the bowls and bottles. We also make sure that our hutches and cages have plenty of ventilation. We remove a lot of the straw hay from their floors, and we also use small fans alongside the hutches for the rabbits to lay alongside them.  These two things are essential.  We also try to keep them shaded during the peak of the day. 

Other things we do throughout the day to keep them cool are things like spraying them behind the ears with cool water while holding them. It’s said that rabbits regulate temperature through their ears. We also place plenty of frozen water bottles in their enclosures for them to lay on, or up against, and we switch them out all day long before they completely thaw out. They seem to really love those bottles. 

The last thing we do is to provide them with fresh fruit throughout the day. Fruit is quite refreshing for them and gives them plenty of nutrients and energy. 

Anyone who raises animals has a moral duty to do everything they can to provide proper protection to their charges, and that includes weather. Just imagine yourself laying out in the sun during a 90 degree day, with no relief in site…… while wearing a fur coat!

See our photos below for a visual.