Keeping rabbit outdoors?

Question

Okay so I have read a lot of people commenting about rabbits being outside, and no one has anything good to say about it. Unfortunately my rabbit needs to stay outside because everyone in my family is allergic. We actually rescued my rabbit who was abandoned by their owner and we couldn't find a new owner so we kept her. Although she lives outside, her hutch is in our screened-in porch. The porch has a lock. What scares me the most is that several years ago my neighbors bunny was taken out of his cage by an intruder and killed :( People can be so horrible. Police suspected that it was a burgular that was in our area during that time (who is now in jail). We live in a very safe area though so stuff like that usually doesn't happen. Would you say my rabbit is safe from intruders, predators, parasites, etc being in my screened-in porch? I worry all the time. Any advice would be great too.

Answer 1

being out side is fine for rabbits as long as they dont get to hot or to cold other than that you wont have any higher risk of parasites with keeping him on your porch and sadley all you can do about the intruders is have a lock and hope for the best. another reason i think that keeping rabbits out doors is the smell it is much more noticeable when the pet is indoors.

Answer 2

A screened in porch wouldn't necessarily stop a really determined dog.  You should make sure the hutch is secure and can keep other animals out.  I would be more concerned with the fact that the rabbit is exposed to the elements.  Rabbits aren't as tough as a dog or a cat.  You have to make sure it doesn't get too hot or too cold.  Being inside is best for a pet bunny, but I know people who have kept theirs outside without any problems.

Answer 3

your bunny will be fine on your screened porch, as long as she has a wooden part of her hutch where she can go inside and be free from drafts. predators, parasites, etc... don't worry about that. she'll be fine. i just hope there's someone in your family who's not allergic so she can have someone to play with every day. bunnies are very social and need to have physical interaction and play on a daily basis. if no one can provide this for her, maybe you should try again to get her another home.

and good for you on adopting a rescued bunny!

good luck :)

Answer 4

Yes, I think your rabbit should be fine.