Rabbits kept outdoors face distinct welfare challenges compared to indoor rabbits, and outdoor housing must be carefully designed to protect them from predators, temperature extremes, and boredom.
Outdoor rabbit welfare depends critically on predator protection, social housing, space provision, and disease prevention. Hutches without attached runs confine rabbits to a space where they cannot perform natural behaviours including running, jumping, and playing. The sight and smell of foxes, cats, and other predators causes chronic stress even without physical contact. Outdoor rabbits require vaccination against myxomatosis and RVHD as a basic welfare provision. Housing design should allow retreat to a secure covered area while providing at least a large attached run for free movement. Year-round outdoor keeping requires insulated housing with appropriate bedding for cold periods.