Update:

The Aviaries reopen on Monday 29 June, closing at 2pm every day for the welfare of the birds. The part of the lakes area housing our chickens, ducks and geese is also open.

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All About Rabbits: Information & Resources

Information and resources


Whether you’re a rabbit owner, thinking of adopting or simply interested in learning more about these fascinating, often misunderstood animals, you’re in the right place. Here, you’ll find trusted advice, practical tips, helpful resources, along with fascinating facts to support you in caring for rabbits.


Did you know?

Because rabbits are prey animals, they’re experts at hiding when something’s wrong—so even the smallest changes, like eating less or sitting differently, can be their way of telling you they’re not feeling well. A quick trip to the rabbit-savvy vet can make all the difference!

Information and resources


Whether you’re a rabbit owner, thinking of adopting or simply interested in learning more about these fascinating, often misunderstood animals, you’re in the right place. Here, you’ll find trusted advice, practical tips, helpful resources, along with fascinating facts to support you in caring for rabbits.


Did you know?

Because rabbits are prey animals, they’re experts at hiding when something’s wrong—so even the smallest changes, like eating less or sitting differently, can be their way of telling you they’re not feeling well. A quick trip to the rabbit-savvy vet can make all the difference!

Caring for your rabbits

Things to consider before getting rabbits


Caring for rabbits can be fun and very rewarding, but it is a big responsibility and a long-term commitment.

Provide a Suitable Living Environment


Rabbits need a spacious, secure environment that allows them to express natural behaviours such as running, jumping, stretching, standing upright, digging and chewing. Providing sufficient space and appropriate enrichment will help keep rabbits physically active and mentally stimulated.

Outdoor set-up

Rabbits should have constant access to a secure enclosure measuring at least 10ft x 6ft x 3ft, with a sheltered area (such as a hutch, shed or Wendy house) measuring a minimum of 6ft x 2ft x 2ft, which is permanently attached to, or within, the exercise area. The enclosure must be predator-proof, using strong welded mesh, secure bolt lock and measures to prevent predators digging in and rabbits digging out, such as mesh skirts, buried wire or paving slabs around the perimeter.

Indoor set-up

Indoor rabbits should have a minimum living space of 10ft x 6ft x 3ft, either through free-roaming access to a rabbit-proofed room or within a secure indoor pen. Wires, hazardous items and houseplants should be kept out of reach.

Outdoor set-up

Rabbits should have constant access to a secure enclosure measuring at least 10ft x 6ft x 3ft, with a sheltered area (such as a hutch, shed or Wendy house) measuring a minimum of 6ft x 2ft x 2ft, which is permanently attached to, or within, the exercise area. The enclosure must be predator-proof, using strong welded mesh, secure bolt lock and measures to prevent predators digging in and rabbits digging out, such as mesh skirts, buried wire or paving slabs around the perimeter.

Indoor set-up

Indoor rabbits should have a minimum living space of 10ft x 6ft x 3ft, either through free-roaming access to a rabbit-proofed room or within a secure indoor pen. Wires, hazardous items and houseplants should be kept out of reach.

Consider the costs


Rabbit veterinary care can be expensive so having adequate insurance is recommended. Finding a rabbit-savvy vet may require some research. We suggest checking that your vet is experienced in treating rabbits or checking the RWAF website for recommended rabbit vets in your area: Rabbit Friendly Vet List | Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF).

Please consider ongoing costs when adopting rabbits; a pair of rabbits can cost £11,000 over their lifetime from yearly vaccinations for myxomatosis, RVHD1 and RVHD2, other vet trips, food, hay, insurance, enclosure maintenance and holiday care.

Some rabbit breeds are more prone to certain conditions and illnesses than others. For example, lop-eared rabbits are more prone to ear infections and deafness, while short-faced (brachycephalic) rabbits can suffer from dental issues and overheating. Giant breeds can experience arthritis from a young age and dwarf breeds can experience respiratory conditions. We recommend researching your chosen breeds so that you can be prepared and spot signs of these conditions so that they can be treated early by an experienced vet.

Is your property rented? If so, we will need to see permission from your landlord that you are allowed to keep rabbits.

Regular health checks


Check your rabbits for signs of injury or illness every day and seek veterinary advice if necessary:

  • Check for normal appetite (poor appetite requires immediate veterinary attention)
  • Check teeth and nails are not becoming overgrown
  • Check coat and skin for signs of mites, bald patches, sores, or lumps
  • Check for a clean bottom to reduce the risk of flystrike
  • Monitor faeces and urine for any changes from the norm
  • Check for a normal, relaxed posture
Download health checklist
  • Check for normal appetite (poor appetite requires immediate veterinary attention)
  • Check teeth and nails are not becoming overgrown
  • Check coat and skin for signs of mites, bald patches, sores, or lumps
  • Check for a clean bottom to reduce the risk of flystrike
  • Monitor faeces and urine for any changes from the norm
  • Check for a normal, relaxed posture
Download health checklist

Provide a nutritious diet

  • 85% hay: the best diet consists almost entirely of good quality hay and dried or fresh grass/weed forages which should be available at all times. They should consume their body size in hay daily and will pick out their favourite strands while leaving the rest, providing fresh hay daily is essential.
  • 10% fresh vegetables and herbs: leafy greens and herbs should be the majority of fresh food provided, small quantities of fennel, broccoli, celery, and cauliflower leaves can be added for variety. We don’t recommend providing any fruit or vegetables high in sugar (such as carrots and peppers) due to the health issues that these can cause. Clean, hand-picked grasses, safe weeds and safe fruit wood are an important addition to any rabbit’s diet.
  • 5% complimentary feed: this should be in pellet form with good quality ingredients, high fibre content and balanced nutrients. We recommend Science Selective or Burgess pellets. Any muesli mixes should be avoided as this promotes selective feeding, can contain unsuitable ingredients and is usually high in sugar.
  • Fresh water, available at all times: This should be provided in a heavy, ceramic bowl to allow natural and more efficient drinking and should be changed daily.
Download safe garden plants guide

Treats: If treats are given, avoid commercial treats containing seeds, nuts or honey as these are not suitable for rabbits. Look for treats with grass or hay as their main ingredient.

Finding the perfect match

How Raystede helps rabbits build lifelong bonds



All rabbits need to live in pairs or groups to feel safe, calm and content. At Raystede, we offer a dedicated bonding service for people hoping to introduce a new rabbit companion into their home. Click the button below to find out how the bonding process works.

Download rabbit bonding guide Read the blog

Downloads and resources

For more information and helpful resources, visit Rabbit Awareness Action Group to help you care for your rabbits.


Find out more from RAAG

Adopting rabbits from Raystede


Adopting through a rehoming centre can take a little extra time and patience, but the rewards are worth it.


Apply to adopt Rabbit adoption FAQs

Meet Albert, who is one of our most heartwarming transformations.

When Albert arrived at Raystede, he was nervous, underweight and suffering with painful patches of dry skin and sore joints.

At Raystede, we don’t just rehome animals, we rehabilitate them first, giving the best chance at a happy and healthy life. From healthcare to behavioural therapy, every step of their journey is carefully guided so they can trust again.

You can make a difference. A gift today will help make sure we can continue to care for all our animals, giving them the love and care they deserve.

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