Considerations in using an old rabbit cage for new rabbits
Children and adults alike love having a pet rabbit because it is cuddly and cute and easy to maintain. However, we are also aware of the fact that keeping a rabbit or any pet is not cheap. You need to provide various things such as food, medicine, and most important of all, shelter.
One of the most common questions among first-time pet rabbit owners is “Can we reuse rabbit cages for new rabbits?” Well, if you have old rabbit hutches or someone you know can lend you one, you can surely save some money. So why not right? Well the answer to that question is yes, you can use an old rabbit hutch for your new bunnies. However, there are considerations to make. Here are some examples:
- Clean Them First – The first thing to do when preparing an old rabbit hutch for your new pet bunny is to give it a thorough cleaning. You need to make sure that you remove all the dirt: algae, dust and other substances that may have stuck to the sides and other areas of the cage. It’s also a good idea to sanitize the entire cage to make sure it’s free of bacteria or germs that could infect your new pet.
- Put new paint or varnish on the wooden cage: If the old cage is made of wood, it is recommended to put new paint or varnish on it. This will make the cage look new and, of course, presentable. Rabbits can appreciate beauty, so you might as well provide them with a nice (even if not new) shelter.
- You can lay down substrate to keep the cage warm and cozy: It is essential to keep your shelter warm and cozy because they get cold easily, especially during the winter season. You can place a small enclosure in which they can hide and sleep. As for the substrate, you can try placing dry hay, newspaper or straw. It will not only make it easier for you to clean the cage, but it will also keep your males and females warm.
- Think of a good area where you will place the cage. It is also necessary to place the cage in a calm and quiet place to avoid stress on your bunnies. You can place it inside the house or in a quiet place like your backyard or garden.
- Clean the cage at least twice a week; You should also maintain proper hygiene for your pet by making sure that its cage is clean all the time. It is advisable to clean the shelter twice a week.
- Be sure to provide clean water and a food bowl. Lastly, you should not forget about the water and food dish for your rabbit. You should also keep these things clean every day to prevent disease in your pet.
You should consider the things mentioned in this article when repurposing your old cage for your new doe or buck to ensure they can have a healthy and safe haven.