Do you need to treat outdoor hutches?

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stranger23

Mama Doe

• Jan 17, 2011

• #1

like you would do to fences? ive been given a hutch that i need to clean out as i dont know if the previous rabbit had any illnesses so what would be the best thing to use for that and do i need to treat the outside with anything?

 

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Stator

Warren Veteran

• Jan 17, 2011

• #2

I'm not sure what you should use for disinfectant but yes they do need to be treated or painted with something. You can get Cuprinol Garden shades which is a safe paint or buy a wood stain from Pets at Home specifically meant for hutches

 

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chelle

Warren Veteran

• Jan 17, 2011

• #3

I used HOT water & white vinigar....its a mild disinfectant & also get rid of any wee marks.....then let dry thoroughly:wave:
Only thing is in this weather the hutches may not dry very well - you may need to get the hair dryer out to help along....or do it on a windy day ...you just dont want any mold growing in the damp wood.:wave:

 

Angela lou

Warren Scout

• Jan 17, 2011

• #4

I think you need to use bleach to be sure to kill anything left by the previous occupants.

 

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stranger23

Mama Doe

• Jan 18, 2011

• #5

ok well when we get a lovely warm day i will give it a wash with bleach then when thats dried i will do the water and vinegar just to make double sure ive killed anything off and made it nice and clean, i will also get some wood stain to treat the wood with after before letting any of my bunnies near it, i will also do the same to the run i got thanks for all your help

 

paulinejoe

Mama Doe

• Jan 18, 2011

• #6

I woudn't personally use bleach, i think it's too harsh for buns - the hot water and binegar sounds the best natural option or you can buy hutch disinfectant spray from pets at home or I just got a nice one from the hay experts which kills things but isn't smelly and is 100% bun-safe

 

susie bun

Wise Old Thumper

• Jan 18, 2011

• #7

For the outside I used a preservative called 'Good for Wood' that was recommended by the hutch company, but I think you can get animal-friendly wood preservative in most DIY stores.