Best Rabbit Runs

As leading manufacturers of hutch covers and accessories, we understand that your pets are cherished family members. Ensuring their safety, comfort, and happiness is paramount. One essential aspect of rabbit care is providing a suitable outdoor run. This guide will explore the best rabbit runs available in the UK for 2025, helping you make an informed decision for your furry friend.

Rabbits are active, playful animals that need plenty of space to hop, stretch, and explore. A rabbit hutch alone simply isn’t enough to keep them happy and healthy – they need a secure outdoor run where they can move around freely and enjoy the fresh air. At Scratch and Newton, our rabbit runs provide the perfect solution, offering a safe and spacious environment for your pets to exercise while staying protected.

Our high-quality extra large rabbit runs are made from strong wire mesh, ensuring long-lasting use for both single rabbits and bonded pairs. This 7ft Space and great height ensures your rabbits have enough space to play and binky, perfect for your rabbits needs.

A large run not only gives them more freedom but also provides a safe, secure environment for them to spend more time outdoors.

If you use a run with a metal base, it’s essential that it touches the ground so your rabbits can stand on grass rather than just wire, as hard surfaces can lead to sore feet and health issues.

Providing a suitable run is one of the best ways to ensure your rabbits live a happy, active life. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about rabbit runs – from choosing the right one to setting it up safely for your pets.

Understanding the Importance of a Rabbit Run

Rabbits are active creatures that require ample space to exercise, explore, and exhibit natural behaviors. A well-designed rabbit run offers them the freedom to hop, dig, and play, contributing significantly to their physical and mental well-being. Without adequate space, rabbits can become bored, stressed, and prone to health issues. Therefore, investing in a quality rabbit run is not just a luxury but a necessity.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rabbit Run

When selecting a rabbit run, several factors should be taken into account to ensure it meets your rabbit's needs:

Size and Space

The size of the run is crucial, you need to provide a space for your rabbits to move freely and stand upright on their hind legs, more room for exercise and enrichment activities.

Safety and Security

Safety is paramount. The run should be constructed with sturdy materials to withstand predators and prevent escape. A secure roof is essential to protect against aerial predators and deter climbing or jumping out. Additionally, consider a partial cover to provide some shelter and a secluded area for your pets when in their run.

Convenience and movability 

Easy access for cleaning and interaction is important. Runs that allow you to easily move around the garden switching between soft and hard surfaces

Types of Rabbit Runs

Several types of rabbit runs are available, each with its advantages and considerations:

Apex Runs

Apex runs are made from wire and mesh. They often include a covered area for shelter and can fold flat for storage.  These large spaces are great for rabbits and can be easily moved around your garden or folded away when not required.

Wire Pens (Puppy Pens)

Wire pens consist of multiple wire panels joined together, allowing for customizable sizes. They are cost-effective and can create large temporary enclosures. However, without a roof, they are unsuitable for unsupervised use, as rabbits can jump out, and predators can get in. They are best used under supervision or as additional exercise spaces.

Rectangular Wood and Mesh Runs

These wooden runs feature a wooden frame covered in mesh and are among the most common designs. They can be built in various sizes and are relatively easy to construct yourself. Wooden runs are more prone to gnawing, so please do keep a check on your run.

Ensuring Your Rabbit's Safety in the Run

Regardless of the type of run you choose, implementing safety measures is crucial:

• Predator Protection: Ensure the run is constructed with strong materials and includes a secure roof to protect against predators such as foxes and birds of prey.
• Escape Prevention: Rabbits can dig and squeeze through small gaps. Secure the perimeter by burying mesh or placing the run on a solid surface to prevent escapes.
• Weather Considerations: Provide sheltered areas within the run to protect your rabbits from harsh weather conditions, including rain, wind, and excessive sun. Placing a run shade is ideal but if not use some boxes or hideaways in a run is great for your Rabbits to shelter in.
  
  

Enrichment and Accessories

To keep your rabbits engaged and happy, consider adding the following to their run:

• Tunnels and Hides: These provide opportunities for exploration and mimic natural burrows.
• Digging Boxes: Filled with safe materials, they allow rabbits to express their natural digging behavior.
• Platforms and Shelves: Adding vertical space can encourage physical activity and provide vantage points.
• Toys: Items like chew toys and balls can keep your rabbits mentally stimulated.
  

Rabbit Run Guide Summary

Choosing the right rabbit run is a vital aspect of responsible pet ownership and goes really well next to your rabbit hutch. It ensures your rabbits have the space to exercise, explore, and express natural behaviors, contributing to their overall health and happiness. At Scratch and Newton, we are committed to supporting you in providing the best care for your pets. By considering the factors discussed and exploring the options available, you can select a run that meets your rabbits' needs and fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rabbit Runs from our customers

What is a rabbit run?

A rabbit run is a secure outdoor space where rabbits can safely exercise, explore, and enjoy fresh air. It provides them with plenty of room to hop around while keeping them protected from predators and preventing them from wandering off.

What is the minimum recommended size for a rabbit run?

Providing a larger space is always beneficial for your rabbit's well-being, this allows them to stretch, Run, Jump and Stand on their hind legs

Can I use a wire pen without a roof as a permanent rabbit run?

Wire pens without roofs are not suitable for unsupervised use, as rabbits can jump out, and predators can gain access. They are best used under supervision or as additional exercise spaces.

How can I prevent my rabbit from digging out of the run?

Rabbits are natural diggers, and if their run is placed directly on grass or soil, they may attempt to burrow their way out. To prevent this, you can take several precautions:

1. Bury Mesh Underground – One of the most effective solutions is to bury galvanised wire mesh. This acts as a barrier, preventing rabbits from tunnelling out.
   

2. Use a Solid Base – Placing the run on a solid surface like concrete or paving slabs can completely eliminate the risk of digging. If you prefer a more natural setup, you can lay down grass mats, soil, or bedding on top of the hard surface for comfort.
   

3. Provide a Digging Box – Many rabbits dig because they have a natural instinct to do so. Offering a dedicated digging box filled with soil, sand, or shredded paper can help redirect this behaviour in a safe and controlled way.
   

4. Regularly Inspect the Run – Even with preventive measures in place, it’s a good idea to check the run regularly for signs of attempted digging or burrowing. If you notice a spot where your rabbit has started to dig, reinforce that area with additional barriers.
   
   

Will rabbits dig out of a run?

Rabbits are natural diggers, so they may try to dig their way out of a run, especially if it's placed directly on grass or soil. To prevent this, you can line the base with mesh, place it on a solid surface, or regularly check for any escape attempts and fill in holes.

How do you make a rabbit run?

Making a rabbit run can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. You can build one using wooden frames and wire mesh, or buy a pre-made one for convenience. The most important thing is to ensure it’s sturdy, spacious, and secure so your rabbit has plenty of room to move around safely.

What material is a rabbit run made out of?

Rabbit runs are usually made from strong materials like wood and galvanised wire mesh, which provide durability and protection. Some runs also have plastic or metal panels, but it's important to choose high-quality materials that will withstand the weather and keep your rabbit safe.

Does a rabbit run need a roof or shelter?

A rabbit run should ideally have a roof or some form of shelter. A covered run protects rabbits from predators, harsh weather, and too much sun. If the run is open-topped, make sure your rabbit has access to a hideout or shaded area to keep them comfortable.

Can I put a guinea pig in a rabbit run?

Yes, guinea pigs can use a rabbit run or guinea pig runs as long as it’s safe and secure. However, guinea pigs have different needs from rabbits, so make sure the spacing of the mesh is small enough to prevent escapes and that they have plenty of hideaways to feel safe and guinea pig run shade. It’s best to avoid housing guinea pigs and rabbits together, as they have different dietary and social requirements.