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Rabbits and hot weather: 7 tips

Rabbits and hot weather: 7 tips

Written by Meanne | August 5, 2026

Rabbits are particularly sensitive to heat and are therefore at greater risk of heat stress. Especially in summer, it is important to know how to protect your rabbits properly. But how can you recognise the signs of overheating, and what can you do to keep your rabbits cool?

Whether your rabbits live outdoors or indoors, there are several ways to keep them comfortable during hot weather. Discover our 7 practical tips and answers to frequently asked questions, so your rabbits are well prepared and stay safe throughout the warm summer months.

Tip 1: Make sure fresh drinking water is always available

Especially during hot weather, it is important that your rabbits get enough fluids. Place several bowls of water around the hutch and run, or hang up multiple drinking bottles, and refresh the water several times a day. You may also want to check the water more often, as it can warm up or become dirty more quickly. It is important to always provide water at room temperature. Ice-cold water is unnecessary and may also cause stomach upset. Did you know that rabbits often drink more from a bowl than from a bottle? As less water is released from a bottle, they can take in enough fluids more easily from a bowl. Therefore, always provide extra bowls, especially during hot weather.

Tip 2: Create shade in the enclosure

Rabbits should always have access to a shaded area. Place the hutch and run in a shady spot, or provide extra shelter with a parasol or shade cloth. This allows your rabbits to choose where they want to rest and prevents them from sitting in direct sunlight all day.

Tip 3: Provide cool places to lie down

When the weather is hot, rabbits like to lie on cool surfaces. For example, place a tile in the hutch, offer a special cooling mat, or put a bottle of frozen water wrapped in a (hand) towel in the enclosure. This allows your rabbits to cool themselves down whenever they need to.

Popular cooling products

Tip 4: Adjust the bedding

In summer, a thick layer of straw is often too warm because it retains heat. Instead, use only a thin layer of hemp bedding or another breathable bedding material.

Tip 5: Keep your rabbit’s coat well groomed

Rabbits shed a lot of loose hair during the summer, especially when moulting. By brushing them regularly, you help them release excess heat more easily and prevent tangles or matted fur. Long-haired breeds in particular benefit from extra coat care.

Tip 6: Watch for signs of heat stress

It is important to stay alert for signs of overheating in your rabbits. Symptoms may include:

Faster or heavier breathing
Lethargy
Lying stretched out with the hind legs extended behind them, combined with lethargy or a warm environment
Reduced appetite

If you notice that your rabbits are breathing abnormally, are very lethargic or are not responding as they normally would, contact your vet immediately.

Tip 7: Ensure fresh air and good ventilation

During hot weather, a hutch or run can quickly become stuffy. Make sure there is plenty of fresh air and good ventilation, for example by placing the hutch and run in a location where air can circulate freely. Indoors, you can open windows or use a fan, making sure that the airflow is not directed straight at your rabbits. Good ventilation helps maintain a more comfortable temperature.

Many asked questions about rabbits and hot weather

How can I tell if my rabbit is too hot?

Rabbits do not easily show that they are struggling with the heat. Signs may include rapid breathing, lethargy, lying flat, eating less or appearing restless. If you are unsure, it is advisable to move your rabbit to a cooler place and contact your vet.

Can my rabbit stay outside in high temperatures?

Yes, but only if there is always plenty of shade and fresh water available. Make sure the hutch or run is not in direct sunlight all day and provide several cool places for your rabbit to rest.

Can I cool my rabbit down with water?

It is not necessary and is often stressful for a rabbit to be made wet. Instead, you can offer a cool tile or a bottle of frozen water, allowing your rabbit to choose where it wants to lie.

Can I give my rabbit a cool snack in hot weather?

Yes, but only in moderation. Some vegetables with a high water content, such as cucumber or lettuce, can help your rabbit take in extra fluids. However, these should never be given in large quantities and should always be offered as a supplement to the normal diet. Frozen vegetables or fruit are not suitable, as they can cause stomach and intestinal problems.

Help your rabbit stay safe throughout the summer

With the right precautions, you can help your rabbits stay comfortable during hot weather. Do you have questions about heat, heat stress or caring for your rabbits? Contact our veterinary team at veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk. You can also read our blog Cooling down your pet for more tips, or browse our range of cooling products for rabbits.

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