Rabbits can get heat stroke because they only sweat on the pads of their feet. The only bigger danger than heat to outdoor rabbits is cold. A heater won’t work for two reasons: the rabbits will huddle to it (and are more than likely to burn themselves), and it can also start a fire.
Decide on the height, width, and depth of the box of the cage. This is a good starting point for your design. Make your enclosure at least five feet deep by six feet long and tall enough for the rabbits to not hit their fuzzy heads on the roof when they jump. If more than one rabbit inhabits the space, make it a couple feet longer. Decide how far off the ground the cage should be. To keep the rabbits from predators, make sure it is at least 3 feet off the ground. [2] X Research source The cage is usually long enough to have two sections, in order for the rabbits to have a separate sleeping section. The sleeping section should have solid sides, so that the rabbits can snuggle inside if the temperature gets cold. The roof of the cage can also function as its door, with the roof attached on one side with hinges, so it can be lifted up. [3] X Research source It should not be totally flat, as a pitched roof with an overhang will keep rain out more successfully. [4] X Research source There is no one way to design the cage but as long as the structure is secure and the inside is big enough for the rabbits, you are on the right path.
Additionally you will need a tape measure and pencil to make measurements and mark them.
Get wire mesh that has gaps small enough so that the rabbits can’t get their heads stuck in it. Steel works well, but there are many safe varieties (just make sure it is not lead). You will also need enough wood to build the frame you have designed. While the size of the lumber doesn’t really matter, it may be easiest to get basic 2 x 4 lumber from your local lumberyard or home improvement center. Add up all of the measurements from your design in order to figure out how much lumber you will need to build the cage frame. You will also need a tight metal mesh for the bottom of your cage. While much of the floor will be covered in natural bedding material, such as hay, the floor underneath should not be solid. One reason for this is that a mesh floor allows urine to leave the cage, so your rabbit isn’t sitting in it. Materials for the roof should include plywood, roofing material, and hinges to attach the roof to the box of the cage. You will also need additional plywood to build a few solid walls on the cage. Alternatively, you can buy an all wire cage from a pet store and then build a frame around it. This will allow you to completely remove the wire cage from the frame in order to clean it. [5] X Research source Some sources even suggest using wood pallets as the wood for your cage. You will need to take the pallet apart and reuse the pieces. [6] X Research source
Then build the supports for the box to sit on, making sure that it is tall enough and sturdy enough to keep the box, and bunnies, upright. Remember that you should have an area that has solid sides, so that the rabbits can get away from cold weather and have a cozy place to sleep. [7] X Research source
Make sure the rabbits can’t slip through the gaps in the staples. If you decided to buy a pre-made wire cage, simply slip it into the frame that you built. Make sure that the wire cage is secure and fits correctly. [8] X Research source
You should also put a solid wall between the main area of the cage and the rabbit’s sleeping area. This will ensure that the sleeping area is a completely protected space. You can use plywood for this wall as well but you will need to cut an opening in it that the bunny can easily get through.
You may want to put a security latch on the roof. This will keep the roof from blowing up in a strong wind or predators from opening up the top of the cage and getting your rabbits.
Once the hutch is all set up you can place the rabbit into its new cage.
