Once considered purely outdoor pets, rabbits are increasingly joining cats and dogs as indoor companions — curled up under dining tables, snoozing on fleece rugs, and stealing strawberries off the kitchen floor. But is indoor life really suitable for rabbits? And if so, what do they need to stay healthy and happy?
Rabbits can live indoors very successfully, but it takes more than just a spare corner and a litter tray. In this guide, we’ll cover what makes indoor life work for rabbits — from space and social needs to rabbit-proofing and enrichment — so you can decide whether a house rabbit is right for you.
Indoor Rabbits: What to Expect
For years, rabbits were seen as garden pets living in hutches at the end of the lawn. But modern welfare guidelines — and what we now know about rabbit behaviour — show that many rabbits actually thrive indoors, especially when their needs are properly met.
Keeping rabbits indoors can mean:
But house rabbits aren’t low-maintenance. They need plenty of space, stimulation, companionship, and a carefully set-up environment that mimics natural behaviour.
Benefits of Keeping Rabbits Indoors
Closer bond with your bunny
Rabbits are curious, social creatures who often become more confident and interactive when they’re part of daily home life. You’re more likely to see their personalities shine, and regular handling builds trust over time.
Protection from weather and predators
UK winters can be damp, freezing, and dangerous for outdoor rabbits. Summer brings overheating risks and predators like foxes and birds of prey. Indoors, rabbits are kept safe, warm, and dry — provided they’re not exposed to radiators or draughts.
Easier to spot health issues early
Living indoors makes it easier to notice subtle signs of illness — like smaller droppings, changes in posture, or reduced appetite. Rabbits hide pain, so early observation can save lives, especially when it comes to conditions like GI stasis.
Quick Tip
Litter training doesn’t just keep things clean — it also helps you track your rabbit’s toileting habits, which can signal illness.
What Indoor Rabbits Need
Enough space to live naturally
A cage is not enough — even indoors. The RSPCA recommends at least 3m x 2m x 1m of accessible space, 24/7. This allows for:
- Hopping, stretching, and binkying
- Separate areas for sleeping, eating, and toileting
- Enrichment and playtime
You can achieve this with:
- A large playpen
- Free-roam access to a rabbit-proofed room
- A secure base area plus daily exercise space
A “home base” they can retreat to
Even free-roam bunnies need a secure area to rest. This could be a pen, a large dog crate, or a designated corner of a quiet room.
Include:
- A litter tray (lined with hay)
- Hiding spots like tunnels or cardboard boxes
- A soft mat or vet bedding
- Toys and safe chews
- Fresh hay and water
How to Rabbit-Proof Your Home
Rabbits are natural chewers and diggers — and your home needs to reflect that.
Focus on these key areas:
Ideal spots include:
- Wires and chargers – use cable covers or route them out of reach
- Skirting boards and furniture legs – use deterrent sprays or chew guards
- Carpets and corners – offer dig boxes or alternative mats
- Houseplants – most are toxic, keep them well away
Rabbit-proofing not only protects your belongings — it protects your rabbit from serious injury.
Do Indoor Rabbits Still Need a Companion?
Yes — and this is often misunderstood. Rabbits are social animals who rely on the companionship of their own kind. No amount of human affection can replace the comfort of a bonded rabbit partner.
Keeping a rabbit alone, even indoors, can lead to loneliness, stress, and depression.
Quick Tip
The best pairings are neutered male and female rabbits. Bonding must be done slowly and carefully on neutral ground — and rescues often offer bonding services.
Toilet Training Your Indoor Rabbit
Most rabbits can be litter trained, especially once neutered. Rabbits instinctively toilet where they eat hay — so placing hay directly in or next to a tray encourages great habits.
Use:
- A plastic cat litter tray
- Paper-based or wood pellet litter (dust-free)
- Avoid clumping or clay-based cat litter (dangerous if eaten)
- Spot clean daily and deep clean weekly with white vinegar
Once trained, rabbits are incredibly tidy — often as reliable as cats.
Is Keeping a Rabbit Indoors Cruel?
Not at all — as long as you meet their physical and emotional needs. In fact, indoor life often offers better welfare than traditional hutches.
What matters is:
- Sufficient space
- Daily exercise
- Enrichment and mental stimulation
- Social companionship
- A consistent day/night cycle (don’t keep them in dark rooms)
The cruelty comes from confinement and isolation, not location.
Common Myths About House Rabbits
“Rabbits smell.”
Not true. Clean rabbits in clean environments do not smell.
“They destroy everything.”
Only if bored or untrained. With enrichment and rabbit-proofing, house rabbits can live happily and harmoniously.
“They must have outdoor access.”
Outdoor time can be great, but it’s not essential. If your indoor rabbit has space, daylight, and stimulation, they don’t need a garden — though a supervised outdoor run is a bonus.
Bringing Outdoor Rabbits Inside
If your rabbits currently live outside and you’re thinking of moving them indoors permanently:
- Do it gradually over 1–2 weeks
- Let them adjust to new temperatures, sounds, and lighting
- Avoid sudden winter transitions, which can shock their system
Once indoors, maintain a routine and offer familiar items from their old setup to help them feel secure.
House Rabbit Checklist
Final Thoughts
Rabbits can absolutely live indoors — and when done right, it’s often one of the best decisions for their welfare. With enough space, daily stimulation, a rabbit friend, and a properly set-up home, indoor bunnies can be confident, interactive, and full of life.
If you’re willing to rabbit-proof, enrich their environment, and commit to their care, a house rabbit will reward you with companionship, charm, and more than a few binkies across your carpet.
