Bunny parents who opt to keep Thumper and pals indoors avoid a number of risks faced by a rabbit that spends any time outside. The Wisconsin House Rabbit Society considers outdoor play areas risky but some may be less so than others, requiring assessment to be made on a case-by-case basis. An article on the National HRS Website lists a number of hazards faced by bunnies outdoors, including extreme weather, fly strike, fleas, poisonous plants, pesticides and a lack of attention from caregivers. But one of more immediate concern is the threat of predators.

Whether you live in the city or a rural area, the predator threat is about the same. Stray or roaming dogs and cats exist in both communities, as do a number of wildlife species that would consider a pet rabbit fair game. A rabbit that must face a predator can panic and cause injury to itself. It may die of a heart attack, become a meal for the predator, sustain fatal injuries, or an injury that would cause infection or a lifelong disability.

According to UW-Extension Wildlife Specialist, Scott Craven, “there are lots of coyotes around Madison and most of southern Wisconsin.” Chapter Manager George Flentke reports hearing coyotes from his near west side Madison home, and that his neighbors have seen them in the area. Urban wildlife is a reality, but needn’t be a threat if the proper precautions are taken. Craven believes that there is little threat to confined animals outside during the day. But if a rabbit is out regularly so that a scent pattern (droppings, etc.) is obvious, a passing coyote might be more inclined to revisit the yard. He points out that most action would be at night. NHRS recommends that any rabbit that spends time outside should be brought indoors at night since most predators hunt at night.

Raccoons are another common critter that could pose a threat to your rabbit while outside. Possessing agility and strength, a determined raccoon could open a cage door or cause enough damage to access a caged rabbit. However, since raccoons are nocturnal (active at night) a rabbit brought indoors before dark avoids this threat. Craven points out that if a raccoon is out and about during the day, it’s usually a sign of disease – canine distemper or roundworms, for example. Rabies is also a possibility, but this is more common to the east and is still unusual in Wisconsin.

Just like with many things in life, we must learn the facts, weigh the risks and make choices. If you choose to provide your rabbit with an outdoor play area, take proper precautions -- limit play time to daylight hours and supervise your bunny at all times. Remember that your furry, four-footed companion relies on you for its safety.

Return to Home Page