Rabbits: Indoor vs Outdoor Pets

Many people think of rabbits solely as outdoor pets. However, rabbits can make great indoor pets as well. There are pros and cons to each arrangement of course, but ultimately I think the house rabbits win as far as being more interesting pets. Before you decide to put your rabbit outside, get your facts straight about house rabbits as well.

Rabbits as Outdoor Pets

In the past, rabbits were often viewed as outdoor pets. Rabbits are still viewed as outdoor pets to some extent today, but more and more people are keeping their rabbits inside. Outdoor living arrangements can work however, depending on your location and your setup. Having arrangements that work and arrangements that are preferable are two different things, but outdoor living arrangements may be acceptable in your area. Of course, there are a wide variety of living arrangements possible for outdoor rabbits and some may be better than others. Living free in the yard and just roaming around would be one of the most dangerous arrangements, while a heated and cooled outdoor covered unit could be quite nice.

Pros of Keeping Rabbits Outside

1. The mess stays outside. While this arrangement isn't going to be less messy (it might be more messy), at least the mess is outside.
2. You might be able to have a larger enclosure outside due to a lack of space inside your house. Bigger is usually better, as rabbits need their exercise and space.
3. Droppings can be easily collected to use as fertilizer (depending on your setup, you may even put the rabbit hutches directly over flower or worm beds).
4. Taking advantage of free food is always a plus. If your setup is directly on the ground which is covered with grass, you'll not need to supply as much hay, veggies, and pellets for your rabbits.
5. Some rabbits are especially scared of humans and may not want to constantly be near you. When rescues take in feral rabbits, they are often kept in large outdoor enclosures to enjoy each other's company and live out their lives.

Cons of Keeping Rabbits Outside

More and more people are finding that having free range house rabbits is a great alternative to using various enclosures. Rabbits are easily litterbox trained and make great house pets.

Credit: Valerie Hansen

Copyright: Valerie Hansen