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Rabbit Enclosure Setup Checklist

Everything you need to set up a safe, rabbit-proofed enclosure or room

Bringing a rabbit home? Setting up their space correctly from day one prevents injuries, illness, and costly mistakes. This checklist walks you through every step — from choosing the right room to the final safety sweep.

🗺️ Step 1: Choose the Right Space

  • Pick a room that can be fully rabbit-proofed
  • Avoid rooms with access to unsafe areas or other pets
  • Minimum4-6 feet wide for hopping and running
  • Good ventilation but no drafts
  • Temperature:60-70°F (15-21°C) is ideal
  • Avoid direct sunlight and air conditioning vents

⚡ Step 2: Rabbit-Proof Wires and Cords

  • Gather all accessible wires, cables, and cords
  • Run through protective cord covers or PVC pipes
  • Use cord clips to elevate cords out of reach
  • Check for exposed wires and cover them
  • Move all chargers and electronics out of reach
  • Consider installing outlet covers on low outlets

🏠 Step 3: Flooring Setup

  • Avoid slippery surfaces (hardwood, tile, laminate)
  • Use fleece blankets, rugs, yoga mats, or low-pile carpet
  • Cover the entire accessible floor area
  • Avoid rubber-backed mats — rabbits may chew them
  • Inspect regularly for holes or loose threads
  • Non-slip rug underlays work well as a base layer

🚽 Step 4: Litter Box Placement

  • Use a large litter box (at least 1.5x your rabbit's body length)
  • Paper-based or hay-based litter only — never clumping clay
  • Place a generous handful of hay on top of the litter
  • Position away from food and water but still accessible
  • Rabbits like to eat while they poop — hay nearby helps
  • Clean daily; completely empty and refill weekly

🌿 Step 5: Hay Rack and Water Position

  • Hay should make up 80% of your rabbit's diet
  • Hang hay rack at rabbit height (easy to access)
  • Place near the litter box — rabbits like this setup
  • Use a heavy ceramic bowl for water (harder to tip)
  • Or use a water bottle as a backup
  • Keep water away from hay to prevent contamination
  • Refresh water daily

🏠 Step 6: Hideaways and Enrichment

  • Add at least one hideaway (wooden house, tunnel, enclosed bed)
  • Rabbits need a safe place to retreat when stressed
  • Provide chew toys: apple sticks, willow balls, untreated wood
  • Add a digging box with shredded paper if your rabbit digs
  • Rotate toys weekly to keep things interesting
  • Avoid toys with small parts, plastic, or glue

🔍 Step 7: Final Safety Sweep

  • Get down on your hands and knees — see it from rabbit level
  • Check for small gaps or holes in baseboards
  • Remove all accessible houseplants (many are toxic to rabbits)
  • Move cleaning products and chemicals out of reach
  • Clear small objects: rubber bands, twist ties, coins
  • Secure trash cans with lids
  • Block any gaps behind appliances
  • Confirm all cord covers are intact and secure

⚠️ Common Hazards to Remove

Lilies (toxic to rabbits)
Electrical cords
Rubber bands
Plastic bags
Chocolate
Air fresheners
Cleaning products
Small plastic toys

📋 Quick Reference: What Your Rabbit Needs

  • Space: At least 4-6 feet to run and hop
  • Hay: Unlimited access, 80% of diet
  • Water: Fresh daily in heavy bowl or bottle
  • Litter box: Large, with paper/hay litter
  • Hideaway: At least one enclosed safe space
  • Chew toys: For dental health and enrichment
  • Safety: Fully rabbit-proofed before free roam

Print this page and use it as your setup guide when preparing for your rabbit.

Last updated: 2026-06-10