Calculate appropriate hutch size for rabbits

Size rabbit hutches based on the adult weight of the breed: a common guideline is at least 1 sq ft per pound of adult body weight. A New Zealand White (10-12 lbs) needs a minimum 10-12 sq ft hutch. Rabbits must be able to stretch out fully, stand on their hind legs without touching the ceiling, and hop at least 3 times in any direction.

Why It Works

Rabbits confined to too-small spaces develop sore hocks (pododermatitis), obesity, and skeletal problems. Does with litters need additional space — a separate nesting box area plus room for kits to move as they grow.

Tips

• Wire-bottom hutches need a solid resting board (at least 1/3 of floor area) to prevent sore hocks
• Consider an exercise run or daily supervised free-ranging time for additional movement
• Meat breed rabbits (New Zealand, Californian) are significantly larger than pet breeds and need proportionally bigger hutches