How to keep your Rabbits cool in summer

Summer is here and although many people are enjoying the warm weather, pets might not.

Particularly rabbits are susceptible to heat stroke. They rely on their owners for cool conditions in the summer months. To keep cool, wild rabbits will go underground or hide beneath shrubs and bushes. This is why we are here to show you how pet owners can help your rabbits stay cool during hot weather.

Provide plenty of shade for your rabbit

Your rabbit house should be kept out of direct sunlight. Metal hutches are able to heat up quickly and retain heat all day. It is best to place your hutch in shaded areas of your garden, such as under large trees or shrubs, to let some sunlight through and protect your rabbits from the intense heat. You can also place a large umbrella nearby if you are unable or unwilling to move the hutch. This will reduce the intense sunlight.

Your rabbit run is no different. They are made mostly of wire mesh and are fully exposed to the sun’s harmful radiations. They will be able to exercise without being overheated by a lightweight cover that allows air to circulate and keeps it ventilated.

You can place some slate or ceramic tiles inside your rabbit hutch. These tiles are cold and will provide a cooling sensation for your rabbits as they lay on top. You can also create a tunnel or hideaway inside the hutch. This is a great way to add shade.

Offer your Rabbit Fresh, Cool Water

Water is essential for all animals. It should be refilled at regular times throughout the day in the summer months. You can give your rabbit access water in a combination of bottles and water bowls . They may even like to lie in the bowls during extremely hot weather.

Ice-cubes can be added to the water bowl for cooling and fresh vegetables. They are naturally rich in water, so your rabbit will love to eat them on hot days.

Keep Flies At Bay

Flies are the worst thing about summer. Flies are persistent creatures that can distract us from our daily lives. Unfortunately, the same happens to rabbits.

If they lay eggs on your rabbits, flies can cause severe damage. It is important to keep them out of your rabbit hutch. It is important to practice good hygiene and make sure your pet’s bedding and litter are regularly cleaned. Flypaper can be used to keep flies away from your rabbit hutch. You can keep your rabbit cool by keeping it clean and trimming any excess hair. This will help you to prevent flies from laying eggs in their nests.

Heat Stroke Symptoms in Rabbits

As with other small animals, heatstroke can cause death in rabbits. You can reverse heat stroke if you recognize the signs early. These are the main symptoms you should be looking out for:

• Rapid, shallow breathing
• The nose is wet
• Breathing quickly from an open mouth while putting their head back
• Hot ears

If your rabbit is suffering from heat stroke, bring them inside and place them in a cool, ventilated area. You should not put them in cold water, as this could cause shock. However, you can apply a cooling compress to their ears. Keep them calm and give them lots of cool, clean water. If they don’t seem to improve in a short time, get them to the vet immediately.

You can keep your rabbit cool and fresh all summer long and they won’t become a hot cross bunny.