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Rabbits outside
Let indoor rabbits enjoy outdoors safely: temperature, grass, shade, water and secure runs—plus when to move rabbits outside permanently.
Rabbits outside safely: from “a sunny hour” to living outdoors
Do your rabbits live indoors, but you’d love to let them enjoy the outdoors on a nice day? You absolutely can—if you do it smart. In this blog you’ll learn how to use a rabbit run safely (on paving or on grass), how to introduce grass without upsetting sensitive tummies, and when it’s a good moment to move rabbits outdoors permanently.
We’ll keep it practical, scan-friendly, and focused on what matters: temperature, shade, security, digestion, and space.
1) When can indoor rabbits go outside?
Indoor rabbits are used to stable temperatures. The safest moment to let them go outside is when the outdoor temperature is close to your indoor temperature. Practically speaking, this is often the period when you don’t use heating indoors anymore.
- Start short (think 10–20 minutes) and build up over a few days.
- Never in full sun: always provide shade and a cool retreat.
- Stay nearby—especially the first times, so you can watch behaviour and droppings afterwards.
Good to know
Rabbits don’t handle heat well. If it’s warmer outside than inside, many rabbits will prefer staying cool indoors.
2) Choosing & placing a rabbit run
A rabbit run is perfect for safe outdoor time—only if it’s secure and stable. You can place a run on paving/tiles or on grass. Both are possible, but the risks (digging, escape routes, predators, overheating) are different.
- Best protection against digging out
- Easy to keep clean
- Always offer shade and fresh water
- Great enrichment (sniffing, grazing)
- Build up time slowly (see section 3)
- Extra attention to digging and escape routes
Browse rabbit essentials here: Rabbit webshop • Rabbit runs (category)
3) Rabbits on grass: build up slowly
Fresh grass is moisture-rich and can be a big change for indoor rabbits. That’s why “just leaving them on grass for hours” can backfire. The goal is simple: let their digestion adapt.
- Start with short sessions on grass (10–15 minutes).
- Increase gradually over multiple days.
- Check droppings afterwards: they should stay firm and normal in size.
If you’re unsure about diet balance, focus on the basics first: unlimited hay + a suitable rabbit diet. Explore: Rabbit feeders and Hay racks.
4) Shade, water & cooling on warm days
Whether the run is on grass or tiles: shade is non-negotiable. A run in full sun can heat up fast, especially on paving. Offer a shaded area and a cool hide at all times.
- Shade first: move the run as the sun shifts.
- Fresh drinking water when on tiles/paving (and whenever it’s warm).
- Choose stable, tip-proof bowls or a reliable bottle for outdoor use.
Water bottles & bowls
Summer cooling products
5) Moving rabbits outside permanently
Rabbits can live outdoors year-round—if the setup is right. A practical moment to move rabbits outside is spring, when temperatures are steady. A helpful rule of thumb: move them when outdoor temperature is close to indoor temperature and when night temperatures stay above ~8°C.
- Make sure they have a dry, draught-free shelter.
- Provide plenty of insulating straw for nesting.
- Keep rabbits in a pair or group: companionship matters, and they cuddle to stay warm.
Once rabbits have adapted to living outdoors and have built a winter coat, avoid moving them back indoors into a heated home.
6) Predator-proof & escape-proof basics
A safe outdoor enclosure is more than “a cute hutch”. Rabbits need space to move, and the enclosure must keep rabbits in—and predators out. Think in layers of security:
- Closed on all sides (including the top) to reduce risks from birds of prey and climbing predators.
- Strong, sturdy materials and secure locks.
- No large gaps: small openings are enough for determined intruders.
- Digging protection (tiles under the run, or secure ground barriers).
Outdoor reality check
Rabbits are most active around dusk and dawn. If you can, avoid locking them in a small night space right during their natural “active hours”. Aim for a setup where they have room 24/7—without compromising safety.
Checklist: safe outdoor time in 10 minutes
- ✔ Temperature check: outside is close to indoor temperature
- ✔ Run placement: stable, secure, never in full sun
- ✔ Grass time: start short, build up gradually
- ✔ Digging prevention: tiles or other escape-proof base
- ✔ Shade + hideout: always available
- ✔ Water: always on paving and on warm days
- ✔ Quick health scan: appetite + droppings normal afterwards
Tip: Want a solid foundation for housing and daily care? Start here: Rabbit information.
FAQ – outdoor time & outdoor living
Can I put my indoor rabbits outside on the first sunny day?
Preferably not “all at once”. Start when temperatures are stable and close to indoors, and build up time gradually.
Do rabbits always need water in the run?
On paving stones and on warm days: yes. On short grass sessions, rabbits may get moisture from grass, but fresh water is always a safe choice when you’re unsure.
My rabbits eat grass like crazy. Is that okay?
That’s normal—but build up slowly so digestion can adapt. If droppings change noticeably or they seem unwell, pause outdoor grass time and consult a vet if needed.
When is a good time to move rabbits outdoors permanently?
Spring is often easiest: stable temperatures, nights above ~8°C, and you’re no longer heating indoors. After winter adaptation outdoors, avoid moving them back into heated indoor spaces.
Shop links: the essentials in one place
Need help choosing the right setup for your rabbits and your garden/balcony situation? Contact us—our team is happy to think along. Contact (DRD Knaagdierwinkel®)
Specialist sinds 2011.
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