Adaptation of dog kennels for group housing of rabbits (1999)

Tamburrino, P. A., Michonski, K. J., Cameron, R. A.

Abstract

An increase in rabbit census prompted conversion of dog kennels to rabbit pens. ... The bedding system consisted of a four-inch layer of wood shavings covered with a six-inch layer of autoclaved straw to allow urine to pass through the straw and be absorbed by the shavings. Pens are cleaned weekly with rabbits being moved to an adjacent clean pen. Twelve to 20 week-old female rabbits are housed in five per group on arrival. ... Enrichment for group-housed rabbits included food treats, toys, music, and human contact. Each pen also contained a half of a 23-inch diameter plastic barrel for seclusion. Twenty-three of 135 rabbits sustained minor fight wounds ... and two sustained wounds requiring additional veterinary care. Most of the wounds occurred during a brief interval and were attributed to four aggressive rabbits, which underscores timely identification of aggressors. Overall, the group-housed rabbits are easier to restrain compared to individually-housed rabbits. Group housing is a viable alternative to individual housing and enhances the well-being of rabbits by allowing natural posturing and socialization.