Rabbits and Guinea Pigs in Winter: Indoors and Outdoors

• Posted on 26 October 2023
• By DRD Knaagdierwinkel
• Posted in Care, Guinea Pig, Housing, Rabbit
• 0

Autumn is in full swing, and the weather is getting gloomier. For rabbits and guinea pigs, it's time to prepare for the cold months ahead. Some of these furry pets prefer to stay outdoors, while others are brought indoors. In both cases, it's essential to know how to help them adapt to the changing weather conditions.

Acclimatization to the Outdoors: Gradual Preparation for Guinea Pigs and Rabbits

Rabbits and guinea pigs that are not accustomed to outdoor living should not be suddenly moved to their outdoor enclosures in winter. It's vital to gradually introduce them to the outdoor environment when temperatures are still above 15°C. This allows their bodies to acclimatize to the changing weather conditions and strengthens their immune system in time. It's crucial to avoid moving animals back and forth between indoors and outdoors, as it can disrupt their temperature regulation. If you need to bring an animal indoors for any reason, it's advisable to reintroduce it outdoors in the spring when temperatures consistently rise above 15°C.

Indoors and Outdoors: The Importance of Companionship for Rabbits and Guinea Pigs

Whether your guinea pigs and rabbits are kept indoors or outdoors, they should never be kept alone. Solitary confinement is unsuitable for their well-being, especially in an outdoor enclosure. The animals like to snuggle up to each other and keep warm this way. Keeping a guinea pig or rabbit alone is not only very sad but also harmful to their health.

Indoor Housing: Avoid Dry Heating Air

If your pets are wintering indoors, make sure the space is not heated. Heating air can dry out the mucous membranes, making them susceptible to viruses. Regularly ventilating the room is essential, but avoid drafts and significant temperature fluctuations.

Watch Out for Underfloor Heating

Underfloor heating may be pleasantly warm for our feet, but it can quickly become too warm for rabbits and guinea pigs. Ensure they stay in parts of the room where there is no underfloor heating. The thickest winter fur doesn't provide sufficient protection against overheating.

Protection from Cold

It's crucial to protect the enclosures from drafts, snow, and rain. Even if your pets stay indoors, well-insulated shelters are essential. The enclosures should provide enough space for multiple animals so they can keep each other warm. Heat lamps can provide additional warmth if needed.

Double Flooring and Air Circulation

Ensure the enclosure has a double floor to avoid direct contact with the cold ground. Air circulation must be maintained to prevent cold and humidity from ground frost and moisture. Bedding should be changed regularly, and wet bedding should be replaced with dry bedding daily. Straw can be used for insulation and moisture absorption. During the night or on windy days, the shelter openings can also be covered with a cloth for extra protection.

Water in Cold Temperatures

Whether your guinea pigs and rabbits stay indoors or outdoors, water will eventually freeze in freezing temperatures. Check the water several times a day. Drinking bottles can be wrapped in plastic wrap, for example, to prevent the water from freezing. Ensure there is enough space between the bottle and the enclosure's mesh so that the animals don't nibble on the plastic. Regular checks remain essential.

Winter Diet: The Importance of Hay and Supplementary Nutrition

In winter, rabbits and guinea pigs require a different diet than in summer. Besides the right food, remember that hay should always be the main food, as it's essential for digestion and gut health.

Indoor and Outdoor Nutrition

Outdoor animals need a strong immune system to withstand the weather conditions. Even healthy animals can get sick in the cold months, especially the respiratory and urinary tracts are sensitive. Daily health checks are crucial.

Protection from Boredom

It can be boring for rabbits and guinea pigs in winter, especially if they're indoors. Fortunately, there are many ways to combat boredom. Think about a sniffing mat, hay snacks, chewing material, or foraging toys. These activities strengthen the bond between you and your pets and provide mental stimulation.

Homemade Toys

Homemade toys can also provide a lot of fun. For instance, use empty toilet paper rolls or egg cartons and fill them with treats and hay. If you fill both ends of a toilet paper roll with hay, the animals will have to make more effort to reach the treats inside the roll.

The well-being of your rabbits and guinea pigs during the winter months is of utmost importance. Whether they are indoors or outdoors, with the right preparation and care, they can remain comfortable and healthy regardless of the weather conditions. Stay committed to their well-being and enjoy the special bond you have with these unique pets.