Summer Tips

Let's face it, summer is not a good time for rabbits. Heat stroke becomes common, bucks become sterile, and some rabbits go uncared for. There's not much we can do, but what we can do makes a world of a difference.

Temperatures of anything above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can be dagerous to rabbits. I have compiled a list of different ways to keep your rabbit cool during the summer.

1. Frozen Water Bottles:  Many rabbit owners prefer this method. It's easy and affordable. All you need are old plastic bottles that would have normally been recycled. Clean them out nice and good, fill them up with tap water and stick them in the freezer. I have 2 bottles per outside rabbit. One for the morning and one for at night if necessary. We use a variation of Poweraide, water, and soda bottles. They are all marked for each rabbit. Make sure the label is torn off or they will do it for you. This is a good alternative because they often play with it, lick it, bite it, and lay next to it. If they chew a hole in it, it's easy to replace!
2. Fans: These are a good way to keep your rabbits cool. My dad went to walmart when the cheap personal fans were on sale and bought them for $1 each. They are hooked individually to each of the rabbits cages and plugged into a power strip. They are easily removable and controlled by a timer. The blades have to be cleaned every month or so because the hair gets caught in there.
3. Air Conditioned Barn: I have only seen a small handful of these around. They are the ideal solution but not the most cost efficient. It keeps them cool to your preferences. If kept properly it offers a cool and clean environment for your rabbits to live in and reduces the risk of heat stroke and sterility.
4. Shaving Long Hared Rabbits: I have yet to do this but I hear it helps those long hared rabbits out there. Be careful. Rabbits skin is extremely tender and cuts easily.

Here are a list of things to remember and to look out for during the hot summer days:

• Always have fresh water available at all times. If a rabbits drink more then a bottle/bowl a day put another up just in case.
• If your rabbits use a bowl keep it out of the sun. The sun causes it to evaporate quicker.
• Watch for ANY kinds of heat stroke. 
• Keep your rabbit out of the sun. Always have a shady place for your rabbits to cool off.
• Look out for heavy panting and foaming of the mouth. If you see your rabbit doing this bring him/her inside.
• Rabbits for Dummies suggests putting a cool, wet towel around the ears cool down the blood in the ears.
• If you feel it is necessary, bring your rabbit to the local vet. Don't hesitate, your rabbits life is extremely important.
• It may also be a good idea to keep a thermometer outside so you can monitor the temperature.

http://www.thefuzzypatch.com/how-to-beat-the-summer-heat.html