Rabbit Hutch Setup – a Scratch and Newton Guide

We understand that your pets are family. Since 2003, Scratch & Newton have been committed to helping rabbit owners across the UK create safe, enriching, and comfortable homes for their furry companions. Whether you're new to rabbit care or simply looking to upgrade your current setup, creating the right environment for your rabbit is essential. It’s not just about a hutch – a proper rabbit run is just as important to support your rabbit’s natural behaviour, health and happiness.

When it comes to rabbit housing, the hutch and run should be viewed as a single living space. A rabbit hutch is a place to rest and retreat, while the run provides essential room for movement and exploration. Both parts work together to create a complete home. However, the run often gets overlooked – and yet it's the place where rabbits can really be rabbits: stretching, digging, running and binky in joy.

Why a rabbit run matters

Rabbits are active, intelligent animals that need a significant amount of space to thrive. A small cage or hutch without room to move is not only inadequate but can also lead to serious health and behavioural issues. Modern guidance from welfare organisations such as the RSPCA and the PDSA recommends that rabbits have access to a safe exercise area or run. The run provides your rabbit with the freedom to express natural behaviours like running, jumping, digging and playing, all of which are vital for their physical and mental wellbeing.

Rabbits are prey animals by nature, which means they need a space where they can feel secure. A well-designed run offers a safe environment where they can be active without fear. This means strong, predator-proof materials and a partially covered roof for some shade or shelter. It's not just about size, it’s about making it feel like home. Adding boxes and hideaways are great way to make your pets feel safe when in their enclosure.

Choosing the right run for your rabbit

When selecting a rabbit run, the size should always be your first consideration. But bigger is always better. The run should allow your rabbit to hop at least three times in a straight line and stand on their hind legs without their ears touching the top.

Permanent garden runs can be a great choice if you have the space, especially if they’re connected directly to the hutch or enclosure so your rabbit can move freely between the two. Some owners opt for bespoke aviary-style setups, offering vertical space and multiple levels, while others prefer modular panels that allow flexibility and easy relocation. Whichever style you choose, ensure it’s sturdy, secure and weatherproof.

Materials matter. A galvanised run will  last longer than a wooden run and offer better protection than cheaper alternatives. A partial Roof covering is also essential, both for protection from weather and to deter birds of prey or neighbourhood cats.

Enriching your rabbit’s outdoor space

The run shouldn’t just be a boring box – think of it as a garden playground for your rabbits. Add tunnels, platforms, hideouts and chew toys to keep them entertained and engaged. Cardboard boxes, wooden houses, digging trays filled with soil or hay, and even cat toys can all be repurposed to give your rabbit plenty of stimulation. Providing hiding spaces also gives your rabbits a sense of safety and control over their environment, which reduces stress and boosts confidence.

Letting rabbits graze on grass is ideal, but you should avoid areas treated with chemicals. Rotating your run position helps to protect the lawn and offers a fresh patch of grass every few days, which your rabbits will love. If you’re placing your run on a hard surface like concrete or paving slabs, make sure to provide soft bedding and enrichment so their feet don’t suffer.

Protection from the elements and predators

The British weather can be unpredictable, and a rabbit’s run must be ready for all seasons. That’s where our expertise at Scratch and Newton really comes in. A quality run cover will keep your rabbit warm and dry during cold spells and provide shade and ventilation in the summer. Our tailor-made run covers are designed to withstand wind, rain and harsh UV, helping to keep your rabbits comfortable whatever the weather throws at you.

Security is also crucial. Foxes, badgers, and even dogs or cats can pose a threat to rabbits, so your run must be escape-proof and predator-proof. Secure locks, and reinforced mesh go a long way in keeping your pets safe. Many owners choose to add a perimeter barrier or even bury mesh beneath the run to prevent digging in or out.

Indoor vs outdoor runs

While this blog focuses on outdoor runs, indoor rabbits also benefit from dedicated exercise areas. If you’re keeping rabbits indoors, you’ll still need to offer at least the same minimum space. Playpens, puppy panels and bunny-proofed rooms can all make excellent runs, giving your rabbits room to stretch and play safely. Whether inside or out, the principles are the same: space, safety and enrichment.

FAQs

What size run does my rabbit need?
Bigger is always better, we recommend a minimum 7ft long and 40 inches tall . More space means more opportunity for natural behaviour. The extra height will allow your pets to stretch and jump up on the boxes etc.

Can rabbits stay in a run all day?
Yes, rabbits should ideally have constant access to their run. A hutch and run setup allows them to choose between resting and playing, which supports better health and behaviour.

How do I protect my rabbits from foxes?
Choose a run made from galvanised metal or very strong timer with secure locks. Run covers also help protect from aerial predators and rain and provide some shelter for your pets.

What should I put inside a rabbit run?
Include toys, tunnels, platforms, hiding places and digging boxes to keep your rabbit entertained. Fresh grass is great for grazing, but make sure it's untreated.

Do I need a cover for my rabbit run?
Yes – a quality run cover protects against rain, wind, sun and snow. At Scratch and Newton, we offer bespoke covers to fit your run perfectly and help keep your pets comfortable all year-round.

Can rabbits live outside all year?
With the right setup, yes. Rabbits can live outside year-round if their hutch and run are properly insulated, covered, and kept clean. It's essential to check on them regularly, especially in extreme weather.

Is a run better than letting rabbits free roam in the garden?
A secure run is much safer. While free roaming under supervision can be enjoyable, it poses risks from predators, toxic plants, or escape. A run gives them freedom without danger.