Rabbit nest boxes provide secure and safe homes for bunnies of both the indoor and outdoor variety. Rabbits need a place to nest and lie down, as well as a place to care for babies when expectant mothers are ready to give birth. Most rabbits will naturally alter the nest box to make sure it’s safe and comfortable for their needs.
Nest boxes can be built or purchased from trusted sources such as Ware Manufacturing. Look for boxes that are close to your rabbit’s size based on breed, height, and age of the rabbit.
Top Rabbit Nest Boxes
1) Ware Manufacturing Wood Nesting Rabbit Box
An excellent durable, safe box for bunnies everywhere, this unit provides unstained and untreated wood that is safe for animals — and can be chewed on without worry. Made entirely in the US.
https://goo.gl/MwYKcS
2) Ware Nesting Box for Rabbits
Providing a safe, fully-assembled nesting box for bunnies, this unit is 11 inches by 10 inches deep and quite safe for chewing. A great small pet box that feels secure and homey.
https://goo.gl/kc7noG
3) Rilley Waterproof Rabbit Nesting Box
Providing a fire resistant, portable house for bunnies, the material in this unit is completely eco friendly and non toxic. A comfortable, fun, soft house for bunnies to lie down and nest inside.
https://goo.gl/f7ytFm
4) Keersi Rabbit Box
Made from straw, this unit is safe for all bunnies and provides a secure, homey, comfortable area for rabbits to nest inside.
https://goo.gl/FLMIG3
5) Ware Rabbit Den
A premium top grade lumber crafted den, this unit is a durable and secure hiding spot for bunnies everywhere. Using reversible flip over technology, it comes fully assembled and is untreated — making it safe for bunnies everywhere.
https://goo.gl/wsZvov
Rabbit Nest Box Selection Tips
A nest box is a way of replicating the burrow that rabbits normally go to in the wild. In general, burrows are very small, only giving enough room for the rabbits to lie down in and remain secure and warm. Nest boxes are designed to let expectant rabbit mothers keep themselves and their young safe in preparing to give birth.
Choosing a nest box is dependent on measuring the rabbit size for which you intend to provide. The nest box doesn’t have to be much bigger than the rabbit itself, just allowing her enough room to move around. While nursing baby rabbits, does usually stash in the nest box and keep one foot on each of the box’s corners to straddle atop the babies. This gives them the chance to nurse while remaining on their backs.
To choose a nest box, be sure to consider the size of the rabbit you will be accommodating, as well as material, cost, design, wooden vs. wire, and overall affordability and durability of the box itself.
https://www.kwcages.com/rabbit-nest-boxes-101
Rabbit Nest Box Cost
Costs for rabbit nest boxes range from $7 for small boxes to about $20 or $30 for larger units. Boxes can also be made on your own, using materials obtained at a local hardware store. For small nest box breeds like Dutch, Mini Rex, and American Fuzzy Lops, you can expect to pay about $10-$15 on average.
Rabbit Nest Box Material
The nest box itself will likely be made from untreated, rabbit-safe wood. Inside the nest box, you should place hay or common straw as well as orchard grass. These are safe for rabbits to nest with and won’t cause irritation or injury.
Wooden vs. Wire Nestboxes
Wooden nest boxes tend to be safe and comfortable materials for rabbits to nest with, while wire nest boxes will also provide a good choice for ensuring that rabbits will be secure inside their hutch or nesting area. In general, wood is recommended as it is durable, safe, and affordable, as well as easy to construct when building your own nest box.
Rabbit Nest Box Accessories
Rabbit nest box accessories include grass, straw, hay, and other gentle forest-based materials that imitate the rabbit’s natural environment. You may also wish to add blankets or other soft accessories to the interior of the nest box to make sure your bunny is cozy at all times.
Rabbit Nest Box Plans
There are a number of rabbit nest box plans available to be built using materials obtained through local hardware stores or online. You can find wood for rabbit nest boxes at Lowe’s or Home Depot, as well as other maintenance and home improvement shopping centers. Additionally, many rabbit pet shops have recommendations for building a safe and secure rabbit nest box and how best to acquire materials.
When choosing a rabbit nest box plan, you’ll probably want to build a basic house-style nest box that imitates the burrow your rabbit would normally take cover in. This is a great way to ensure that your rabbit will feel good in his or her new burrow area.
How to Build Your Own Rabbit Nest Box Step by Step
When you’ve selected the best rabbit nest box plan, you’ll be able to start acquiring materials. Look for wood, metal, and other components, ensuring that all wooden selections are untreated and safe for rabbits. You may want to ensure that you purchase the wood directly from a rabbit-safe location such as online or at a pet store.
To build the unit, first locate your plan and keep it handy to make sure you have everything you need. Once you’ve acquired all the necessary materials, cut your wood down to size. Many nest boxes will indicate dimensions such as ten inches by eight inches, or something close to that. Once your wood is sized, you can begin gluing together each piece or solidifying the structure as advised through your plan.
Finally, make sure to test your box for safety and security, making sure it holds up well and will provide a cozy home to your pet.
Cleaning Your Rabbit Nest Box
Rabbit nest boxes will need to be cleaned on a regular basis to make sure they are in optimal condition. To clean the box, simply remove all hay and other interior bedding material and wash out with gentle wiping motions, usually using a cloth or hypoallergenic wipe. You can also use soap and water for metal-based boxes, using a scrub brush or sponge.