Rabbits are not the cheap, low-maintenance pets that some sellers still claim they are. In terms of socialization, training, care and general expense, rabbits are as big a commitment as dogs, possibly more so. Along with vet costs, housing is one of the biggest expenses, as rabbits have specific habitat needs.
Basics
Wherever you keep your rabbits -- you should always have more than one -- they’ll need a secluded place to sleep and a spacious area to run and play. The typical rabbit hutch is suitable only as a sleeping area and a place to hang the water bottle. A hutch is nowhere near enough in itself. Plentiful bedding is required; if you keep your pets inside, you'll need at least one litter tray per rabbit.
Outdoor Shelter
Pet rabbits are descendants of the hardy European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and can tolerate moderately harsh weather, provided they have a shelter. In the wild, they use burrows. As pets, they need a tough, weather-proof hutch with plenty of straw or hay -- for additional insulation, for comfort and for handy snacking. Although rabbits can cope with some cold, excess heat is dangerous. If you live somewhere hot, keep your pets inside.
