Getting an indoor rabbit? You’ll need to set up the perfect home base for your new furry friend. With so many options for rabbit cages, it can be tricky to choose the right one. From DIY enclosures to pre-made habitats, there are lots of factors to consider.
In this article, we’ll explore 25 innovative indoor rabbit cage ideas to inspire your new bunny’s home. Whether you want a cute and quirky design or a practical option on a budget, you’re sure to find a cage style that suits your needs.
Things to Consider When Choosing an Indoor Rabbit Cage
When deciding on the best indoor cage for your rabbit, keep these key factors in mind:
-
Size – Look for a minimum of 4×2 ft for a single rabbit The more space the better to allow running and stretching
-
Accessibility – Doors and removable parts make cleaning and interacting with your rabbit easier
-
Safety – Avoid wire floors which can hurt paws Opt for a solid floor with traction
-
Comfort – Include a secluded area for resting along with space for playing. Soft bedding helps.
-
Ventilation – Good airflow prevents stuffiness. Mesh panels or wire sides allow visibility too.
With the essentials covered, let’s dive into these creative indoor rabbit cage setups!
1. Classic Grid Cages
A popular choice, grid cages like Cubes and Coroplast (C&C) are highly customizable. Interlocking wire panels secure together to form the frame. Then line with coroplast plastic sheets for a smooth floor. Easily arrange multi-level platforms, ramps, hideouts and more. Grid cages can be configured to fit your space and rearranged as needed.
2. Playpen Enclosures
For a flexible option, use a puppy playpen. Arrange panels to create an enclosed area and add a litter box, bedding, toys and more for a comfy habitat. Playpen cages are portable and make reconfiguring or expanding a breeze.
3. Repurposed Furniture
Give an old cabinet, dresser, or shelf new life as a bunny home. Remove interior parts to open up space. Line with pet-safe sealant and materials. The familiar environment helps rabbits feel secure.
4. Kennel-Style Homes
Choosing a plastic dog kennel or wooden hutch provides a snug shelter when a playpen isn’t feasible. Look for models with a pull-out tray for easy cleaning. Pair with a pen for exercise time.
5. PVC Pipe Frames
Lightweight PVC pipes quickly connect into creative frames. Cover the structure with mesh or fabric for an airy enclosure. Arrange pipes in fun shapes – circles, tunnels, pyramids – to spark curiosity.
6. Cozy Secluded Spots
Even in roomy cages, rabbits need a secure niche to retreat to. Use inverted boxes, ceramic plant pots, or wood hides. Line with soft bedding for comfort. Offer at least one per rabbit.
7. DIY Wooden Hutches
For a sturdy option, build a frame from untreated wood and seal it well. Attach panels of wire mesh or grids to enclose space. Include hideaways, platforms, chew toys and litter trays. Customize to match your home.
8. Whimsical Castles & Forts
Let your imagination run wild creating castles, forts, and hideaways. Use cardboard, fleece, timothy hay, and other bunny-safe materials. Spark playtime and mental stimulation through novelty.
9. Rustic Twiggy Abodes
Many pet stores sell small twig, willow, or seagrass shelters. Interweave branches to form an au naturel hideout. These cozy nooks make ideal retreat spaces paired with a larger setup.
10. Teepee or Canopy Styles
Drape a sheet or blanket over a frame to create a teepee-style canopy. Place your bunny’s favorite blankets or toys inside for a hideout. Easy to make and modify based on your rabbit’s play style.
11. Outdoor Runs
Let your rabbit play safely outdoors by creating a protected run. Use wire panels, wood frames, or PVC pipes to build an enclosure. Add shaded areas and hideaways. Supervise playtime to prevent escapes.
12. Two-Story Condos
Elevated cages like the Ferret or Critter Nation offer ample room on multiple levels connected by ramps. Watch your energetic bunny scamper up and down. Add boxes, tunnels, and toys.
13. DIY Fleece Cube Beds
Stitch five or six fleece panels into a cube shape. Stuff with polyfill for plushness. These cozy beds make perfect hideouts and chewing surfaces. Easily washable too.
14. Foraging Boxes
Hide pellets, hay and treats in a cardboard box filled with shredded paper or packing peanuts. Rabbits will happily dig through hunting for treasure. Rotate novel “digging” materials to prevent boredom.
15. Tunnels & Tubes
Interconnect straight or curved tunnels to create paths for exploring and hiding. Many materials work – cardboard, PVC pipe, fabric, etc. Watch your bunny zip through their tunnel maze.
16. Ball Pits
Fill a rimmed box or kiddie pool with plastic balls. Rabbits dig through the ocean of orbs searching for hidden goodies. Supervise closely to prevent chewing and ingesting plastic.
17. Garden Planters
Line a galvanized steel planter with fleece to create an earthy hideaway. The rounded shapes and smooth metal edges prevent injuries. Position half-buried in substrate or bedding.
18. Wooden Spools
Ask local carpet stores for leftover hardwood spools. Make great hides and toys. Add a ramp or steps for accessing elevated spools. Just beware of splintered edges.
19. Hammocks
Hang flat or pod-style small pet hammocks at your rabbit’s level. Rabbits love lounging in gently swaying hammocks. Use metal chains or clips so they can’t chew down the hammock.
20. Cozy Baskets
Woven seagrass or willow baskets make great hides. Look for types with low rounded openings rabbits can hop in and out of easily. Place soft blankets inside for comfort.
21. Window Perches
Let your rabbit gaze out the window! Use brackets to install a sturdy wooden platform near a window. Add a comfy blanket for relaxing as they watch the world go by.
22. Modular Cardboard Furniture
Many pet brands offer flat-pack cardboard furniture like hideouts, tunnels, ledges etc. Sturdier than DIY cardboard, these are fun to rearrange and expand.
23. Digging Boxes
Hide treats and toys in an enclosed box filled with shredded paper, hay, or straw. Digging and foraging provides enriching mental stimulation. Use a lid to contain the mess.
24. Treat Dispensers
Puzzle toys like treat balls and dispensers encourage natural foraging. As rabbits nudge and roll the devices around, kibble or hay falls out. Satisfying and engaging.
25. Custom Cages
Work with a skilled carpenter to design a fully customized cage. Choose materials like wood, acrylic, or PVC and include special features for your home. Though pricey, it’s one-of-a-kind!
Get Creative with Your Bunny’s Indoor Cage
Creating the perfect indoor habitat requires a mix of safety, space, and enrichment. But don’t be afraid to also add your own flair! Include playful themes, fun DIY add-ons, and opportunities for your rabbit to exhibit natural behaviors. With an awesome indoor cage, you’ll both be hopping for joy!
Have you got enough space for your rabbits?
The minimum recommended space for a pair of bonded rabbits is 3m x 2m x 1m high. This applies to indoor and outdoor rabbits. To create your rabbits indoor set up, you can use items like large rabbit runs, or dog crates/puppy pens. Your rabbits need plenty of space to exercise, explore, and play.
Plus, they’ll need space to include everything they need! Items to include in your rabbits’ indoor home include:
- Hay racks
- Water bowls
- Hiding places, for example, Runaround tunnel and snugs
- Tunnels
- Platforms
- Litter tray
- Digging box
- Rabbit toys and boredom breakers
- Separate sleeping and toileting areas
For more information on the rabbit housing essentials, see our welfare page.
Location, location, location: Where will your rabbits live in your home?
Part of a room
Best Indoor Rabbit Cages
FAQ
What is the best indoor cage for a rabbit?
- Best Indoor Rabbit Cage #1 — Petsfit Rabbit Hutch
- Best Indoor Rabbit Cage #2 — Kaytee My First Home Deluxe Rabbit 2-Level Cage
- Best Large Indoor Rabbit Cage — Living World Deluxe Habitat
- Best Cheap Indoor Rabbit Cage — Ware Manufacturing Home Sweet Home Pet Cage for Small Animals
What do you put in an indoor rabbit cage?
Rabbits generally do not feel safe on smooth, slippery surfaces, so consider adding bedding, a grass mat, carpet square or fleece pad to your cage set up. Thinner plastic cages can also be chewed through, so keep an eye on destructive rabbits in these types of cages.
What is the best way to keep a rabbit indoors?
Rabbits will need a large, safe enclosure in a quiet part of your home. This enclosure must include a main shelter and a large, secure exercise area, with additional hiding places.
How to keep an indoor rabbit cage from smelling?
- Litter Box: Scoop out soiled areas in the litter box daily.
- Bedding: Remove and replace soiled bedding, such as hay or paper bedding, daily.
- Food: Remove any uneaten food or spoiled pellets.
- Water: Refill the water bottle or bowl with fresh water.
- Spot Clean: Spot-clean any stray poops or hay from the cage liner.
How to make an indoor rabbit cage?
Luckily, an indoor rabbit cage is simple to make and offers plenty of opportunity for customization. With some wire panels and plastic cable ties, you can create a simple DIY cage with 2 plywood levels and an open floor and roof. Purchase 2 boxes of wire storage cubes. You can find these at a home improvement or department store.
Is it possible to make a cage for a rabbit?
Yes, it is possible to make a cage for your rabbit. Many rabbit owners transform small bedrooms or large closets into rabbit-proofed rooms, but this isn’t possible for everyone. Making a cage is a great way to save money and ensure it is perfect for your specific rabbit and your space.
How much space do you need for a rabbit cage?
Go double-story to save on space – Stack the 8 square feet enclosed space on top of the 24 square feet run space and attach the levels with a ramp. Make sure the boundary walls are at least 36 inches (90 cm) high to prevent escape. Before diving into your DIY rabbit cage project, evaluating the space needed for your rabbits to thrive is crucial.
Where can I find advice on a rabbit cage?
Online forums, social media groups, or local rabbit clubs offer platforms where experienced rabbit owners are eager to share insights and advice. Whether you’re facing construction hiccups or seeking ideas for cage modifications, these communities provide a valuable resource.
Can you make a castle for a rabbit cage?
Castles for rabbit cages look great on Instagram but they are typically a bit more difficult to create as DIY projects. The good news is you can find different types of wooden or plastic castles in pet stores. Buy your own or combine multiple smaller castes to create one large castle your rabbit will love to explore.
How do you assemble a rabbit cage?
Select a durable and rabbit-safe mesh to ensure proper ventilation. Make sure the holes are small enough so your bunny can’t just squeeze through. You can also use acrylic glass (also known as Plexiglass), but make sure to drill some holes to improve ventilation. Use chew-proof fasteners to assemble the cage securely.