How to Keep Your Rabbits Cool During The Summer
Keeping your rabbits cool during the summer is one of the most important things you’ll need to do as a rabbit owner. Domestic bunnies are very sensitive to heat. Any temperatures above 29°C (85 °F) can induce a heat stroke.
Here are some signs of heat stroke…
- Wet fur below the nose
- Heavy and fast breathing
- Flared Nostrils
- Hot ears & feet
- Lethargy/confusion
- Convulsion
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1. Turn on the A/C
If you have air conditioning turn it on during the hot summer months. Bunnies do well in temperatures between 15°C- 21°C (60°F – 70°F).
2. Hydration
It is always important to hydrate your rabbits but even more so during the summer. Make sure you’re providing water to them 24/7, ideally in a large water dish, not bottle. You can even put some ice cubes in their water to keep it nice and cold.
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3. Wet Veggies
This goes hand in hand with hydration. Wet veggies are a great way to hydrate your rabbit. You can either run the veggies under cold water or spray them down with a water.
*Too many wet veggies can cause stomach issues so only give this to them on very hot days or if you suspect a dehydration.
4. Ceramic Tiles/Frozen Water Bottles
Image credit: Raising-Rabbits.com
Tiles are a great option for cooling down your rabbits. Since ceramic tiles are dense, they provide a cool surface for your rabbits to lay down on. You can even place them in the fridge for about 15 mins to make it even colder.
Water bottles are a good alternative/companion to the tiles. All you have to do is find some plain water bottles, take off the wrapper, freeze them, and place them in your bunnies living space. If you want them to be more comfortable to lay next to, you can cover it with a sock.
5. Block Sunlight
A good way to make a room cooler is to block out the sunlight. Your bunnies should never be in direct sunlight but on hot summer-y days the sun will quickly warm up a room. Try to close your blinds/curtains where ever your bunnies are kept.
6. Remove Polyester
Polyester is a thermal conductor. If you keep any blankets/fleece in your rabbits playpen, it’s a good idea to take them out during the summer. A good alternative would be anything made from cotton, such as sheets/pillowcases. If you live in a dry environment, you can spritz them with water and refrigerate them for 10-15 mins.
7. Mist their ears
Rabbits regulate their own temperatures through their ears, you can mist some water on their ears to keep them cool. *Never soak or submerge your bunny in water.
8. Grooming
It is important to brush your bunnies regardless of the temperature. However, it’s even more important during the hotter months. Rabbit fur is an insulator, meaning it keeps heat inside. By brushing some of that fur off, your rabbit will cool down a bit. If you have a long haired rabbit, giving them a trim/shearing them for the summer is advised
9. Ice Pops/Rabbit Popcicles
Ice pops are an awesome treat for your rabbits. They are fun and really easy to make. Plus, your rabbit will probably love them.
*Only feed 1-2 fruit/non-leafy ones a day. Leaf-based popsicles can be given more frequently.
Watch this video for more info….
