Rabbits kept in outdoor hutches face welfare challenges from inadequate space, isolation, temperature extremes, and predator stress.
The traditional garden hutch has been widely criticised by welfare organisations as fundamentally inadequate for rabbits. A hutch measuring 4 x 2 x 2 feet cannot allow the binkying, running, and jumping that are indicators of positive rabbit welfare. Outdoor rabbits in hutches are exposed to weather extremes, predator presence, and often prolonged isolation. Rabbits that live in constant fear of predators even when physically safe develop chronic stress from the threat. Modern welfare guidance recommends a minimum housing footprint of 3 x 2 metres with permanent access to a run, combined companion housing, and appropriate management of temperature and predator contact.