Some people don't realise just how much exercise rabbits need. They should not be kept in their hutch all day long without any form of exercise.
A lack of exercise can lead to serious health problems such as obesity, poor bone and muscle density and urinary infections. It's also not very good for their mental health, they need regular mental stimulation to keep them happy.
The amount of exercise that experts recommend varies, but many people find rabbits need at least 3 or 4 hours of free run a day. Exercising your bunny is easy, there are many different ways to provide them with the exercise they need. Here are a few to get you started.
Garden Exercise
Before your rabbit can enjoy garden exercise you need to make sure you're garden is rabbit proof. They shouldn't be able to escape anywhere or be near potentially dangerous objects. Once you are confident your bunny will be safe give them time to run about in the garden on a daily basis. They will enjoy running around and exploring in the fresh air.
Build An Obstacle Course
If you want to have some fun with your rabbit and provide them with a good way of exercising you can always build them an obstacle course. You can do this by making things they can interact with or buying some obstacles for them to try.
Toys
Get your bunny some toys to play with to keep them occupied for a few hours every day. Whether this is something to chew on, an exercise ball or kong toy. Your rabbit will enjoy playing with toys and it will stop them from getting bored.
Exercise Pen
You can always build your rabbit a nice exercise pen to run around in. You can relax while your rabbit is in their exercise pen as they will be safe from harm and confined to a specific area. You can build an exercise pen indoors or outdoors depending on your needs.
Interact With Your Bunny
Simply interacting with your rabbit will keep them stimulated, give them a chance to stretch their muscles and get out of their hutch. Sit or lie on the floor and let them climb on your and interact with you. Spend some time playing with toys together or simply relax while they roam around.
Large Hutch
Getting a large hutch where they have plenty of space can also help. If they are free to run around their cage they are more likely to get more exercise.