Temperatures above 25 degrees celsius are too hot for rabbits and can increase the risk of heatstroke. Keep monitoring the weather and bring your rabbit indoors if the temperatures rise.
If you suspect your rabbit is suffering from heatstroke, do not submerge your them in cold water as the shock can be fatal. Instead, dampen their fur and ears with cool water and seek veterinary attention immediately.
You are watching: How to keep your rabbits cool in the summer heat
Move your rabbits’ hutch and run out of direct sunlight – a gazebo or sun sail placed over the hutch can create a shaded area. You may even choose to move them indoors, but it’s important to provide plenty of shade for your rabbit. Wooden hutches can get very hot and should never be left in the sun.
Your rabbit may drink more water than normal during the summer. Make sure there are plenty of fresh water sources available, including both bottles and bowls. You can add a couple of ice cubes to water dishes to keep the water cool, and offer vegetables soaked in water to keep your rabbit hydrated.
Rabbits like to stretch out during hot days to prevent their body from retaining too much heat. Place ceramic or slate tiles in the shade for your rabbit to lie down on, as these will stay cool. If you have space you can also cool them in the fridge for an hour before placing them in the run.
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You can also freeze a large bottle of water and wrap it in a tea towel, then place it where your rabbit can lie down. Or, instead of a frozen water bottle, use ice packs. Similarly to ceramic tiles, they create a cool surface for your rabbit to relax on.
Hanging a damp towel on the rabbit run can provide extra shade, while also creating an evaporative cooling effect. Do not cover the entire run as this will prevent a cooling breeze.
Since rabbits lose heat through their ears, you can lightly dampen them to speed up the cooling process. If your rabbit is comfortable with it, you can use a spray bottle to mist their skin, or simply use a wet cloth or your hands to dab their ears.
Rabbits shed their fur seasonally, but this process can take some time. By grooming your rabbit often, you’ll help them shed excess fur while also strengthening your bond. Long-haired rabbits – such as angoras – should be brushed daily, and trimmed by a vet or professional groomer several times a year. Trimming their fur will also make it easier to check your rabbit for fly strike and keep them clean.
While house rabbits may not be exposed to direct sunlight, a warm house can still be too hot for them. To keep your house rabbit cool in the summer, there are some tips you can try.
Open a window to allow plenty of air circulation and breeze, or turn on air conditioning if you have it.
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Providing a fan can keep the air cool in your rabbit’s room. Do not blow the fan directly onto the rabbits, and ensure they have enough room to move away if they wish. Keep wires out of reach to prevent chewing on electrics. If it’s very hot indoors, you can place a cold, wrung-out towel on top of the run in the direction of the fan. As the fan blows, the towel creates an evaporative cooling effect.
Move your rabbit from conservatories and into a cooler room. Glass buildings and wooden sheds can heat up very quickly, making them dangerously hot for rabbits. Take note of the coolest rooms in your home, and relocate your rabbit when necessary.
Closing curtains will prevent sunlight from heating up your rabbit’s room. Basements are usually a good option as there are often no windows, and heat rises to the top of the house.
Fly strike is more common during the summer months. Fly strike happens when flies lay eggs in fur, and maggots feed on the rabbit. This can result in fatal wounds and illness.
Dirty, wet bedding or soiled fur provide the perfect environment for flies to lay eggs – during hot weather, flies are especially drawn to these warm environments. In the summer, it’s essential you check your rabbit for symptoms of fly strike at least twice a day.
Look out for these signs of fly strike:
Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Outdoor
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