InspectorMorse
Wise Old Thumper
Do you agree ?
Over the last week I have seen numerous posts on Social Media where Rabbits have either become seriously unwell (stasis, hypothermic shock) or died as a direct result of hypothermia. In many cases the Rabbits were provided with outdoor accommodation that is well within the 'cold weather care' guidelines of both the RSPCA and the RWAF.
IMO the assumption that outdoor Rabbits can always cope with extremely low temperatures- ie sub zero, as long as they are provided with appropriate accommodation, is misleading. Is it time to change this message ? Should outdoor Rabbits be moved to an indoor environment over winter ?
Wild Rabbits live below ground, the temperature below ground won't fall to sub zero. Wild Rabbits live in groups, many people still have single outdoor Rabbits so they won't have other Rabbits to snuggle with to keep warm. Wild Rabbits are unlikely to live for more than 4 years. Pet Rabbits can live to be teenagers. Elderly Rabbits are far less likely to be able to regulate their body temperature
Opinions ?
Over the last week I have seen numerous posts on Social Media where Rabbits have either become seriously unwell (stasis, hypothermic shock) or died as a direct result of hypothermia. In many cases the Rabbits were provided with outdoor accommodation that is well within the 'cold weather care' guidelines of both the RSPCA and the RWAF.
IMO the assumption that outdoor Rabbits can always cope with extremely low temperatures- ie sub zero, as long as they are provided with appropriate accommodation, is misleading. Is it time to change this message ? Should outdoor Rabbits be moved to an indoor environment over winter ?
Wild Rabbits live below ground, the temperature below ground won't fall to sub zero. Wild Rabbits live in groups, many people still have single outdoor Rabbits so they won't have other Rabbits to snuggle with to keep warm. Wild Rabbits are unlikely to live for more than 4 years. Pet Rabbits can live to be teenagers. Elderly Rabbits are far less likely to be able to regulate their body temperature
Opinions ?