Four proven methods for maintaining a comfortable temperature for your rabbit during summer heat
In the summer months, ensuring our beloved rabbits stay cool and comfortable is crucial. Veterinary surgeon Rebecca, who graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in London in 2009, shares her expert advice on additional cooling methods for rabbits during hot weather.
Regular grooming is essential, not only for removing excess dead fur but also for helping rabbits feel cooler. However, there are other methods to help rabbits cope with the heat.
One such method is using commercial cooling mats or creating DIY cooling mats by placing refrigerator-cooled ceramic or slate tiles in the rabbit’s enclosure. Rabbits can lie on these to dissipate heat effectively. Another practical approach is to place frozen water bottles wrapped in towels near or inside the hutch, giving rabbits something cool to lean against and helping to lower their body temperature.
Spraying cool water on their ears occasionally is also beneficial, as rabbits dissipate much of their body heat through their ears. Providing shade and ventilation is essential, such as placing the hutch in a shaded, breezy location, and using fans (if safe and feasible) to increase airflow. Using damp towels for rabbits to lie on can also help keep them cool by evaporation.
These methods complement ample fresh water, shade, and grooming, enhancing rabbits' ability to cope with heat safely during the summer months.
It's important to be aware of the signs of heatstroke in rabbits, which include weakness, panting, drooling, hot or red ears, collapsing, and seizures. If you suspect your rabbit is suffering from heatstroke, seek immediate veterinary attention.
When it comes to grooming, the Small Pet Select HairBuster Comb is voted the best rabbit brush, helping to remove excess fur down to the undercoat while massaging the skin.
Outside of her work and writing, Rebecca enjoys walking her own dog, spending time with her young family, and baking. She has a particular interest in medicine and has achieved a BSAVA postgraduate certificate in small animal medicine (with commendation).
This article was last updated in July 2025 by Megan Milstead.
[1] Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund. (2021). Rabbit Care in Hot Weather. Retrieved from https://www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk/advice/rabbit-care-in-hot-weather [2] House Rabbit Society. (2021). Heat Stress. Retrieved from https://rabbit.org/heat-stress [3] The Rabbit House. (2021). How to Keep Your Rabbit Cool in the Summer. Retrieved from https://www.therabbithouse.co.uk/blog/how-to-keep-your-rabbit-cool-in-the-summer [4] PDSA. (2021). Rabbit Care in Hot Weather. Retrieved from https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-advice-and-information/pet-care-and-training/rabbits/rabbit-care-in-hot-weather
- In addition to regular grooming, using commercial cooling mats or DIY cooling mats can help rabbits cope with heat.
- Placing frozen water bottles wrapped in towels near the rabbit's hutch can help lower its body temperature.
- Spraying cool water on rabbit's ears can help dissipate body heat effectively.
- Providing shade and ventilation, such as placing the hutch in a shaded and breezy location, is essential for rabbits during hot weather.
- Using damp towels for rabbits to lie on can help keep them cool by evaporation.
- Ample fresh water, shade, grooming, and cooling methods are crucial for rabbits to safely cope with heat in summer.
- Signs of heatstroke in rabbits include weakness, panting, drooling, hot or red ears, collapsing, and seizures.
- If a rabbit shows signs of heatstroke, immediate veterinary attention is needed.
- The Small Pet Select HairBuster Comb is voted the best rabbit brush, aiding in removing excess fur and skin massage.
- Outside of her veterinary work, Rebecca enjoys spending time with her pet dog, family, and baking.
- This article on rabbit care in hot weather was last updated by Megan Milstead in July 2025.
(References: [1] Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund, [2] House Rabbit Society, [3] The Rabbit House, [4] PDSA)
