If you are the proud owner of one or more rabbits and are looking for a place for them to roam safely outdoors consider an outdoor rabbit hutch
. If you are a hands on type of person, building your own rabbit hutch is fairly simple. Here's how to build a 30X36 outdoor rabbit hutch:
Tools & Supplies You Will Need:
- Hardware Cloth
- 30-inch by 36-inch piece of 0.625 by 0
- 30X36 piece of 14-gauge woven wire
- 15-inch by 15-inch piece of carpet
- 18X132 piece of 14-gauge woven wire
- 14X15 piece of 14-gauge woven wire
- 4X10 piece of 14-gauge woven wire
- 30X36 piece of Formica covered with newspaper
- 3/8 inch hog rings
- Tin snips
- Wire cutters
- Hog ring pliers
- Measuring tape
- Door latch
- Cardboard box
- Straw
Assembly:
The first step is constructing the four sides of the hutch. Bend the 18X123 piece of woven wire into right angles in three separate places. Measure 36 inches across and then fold the wire. From that point, measure another 30 inches and fold again. Then measure 36 inches from this point and make a third fold.
Then take a hog ring and fasten it to the edge of the 30 side of the wire, then fasten it to the 36 side. Place the hog rings at 5 intervals, along the wire. Secure the edges as you go along. Use the hog rings at 5 intervals to secure the top and the floor of the hutch.
Next is constructing the door. Cut two inches from either side of the 36-inch side as well as two inches from the top and the bottom.
Using the wire cutters, cut a 13X12 hole. Use the hog rings to attach the 14X15 piece of wire to the hole. Leave an inch of overlap on all sides.
Repeat the door instructions to cut the feeder hole. Cut the opening 2X8 instead. Use the 4X10 piece of woven wire to cover the door, using the hog rings to secure it in place. Attach the door latch.
Finally, the hutch can be set up to be used by your rabbit or rabbits. Spread fresh straw all over the floor of the hutch. Place the hutch over the Formica that has been covered with newspaper. Add a food bowl, hanging water bottle, and any toys your rabbit may want to play with. It's now ready to be used!