Looking after your rabbit in winter Now is the time to think about your outside bunnies and make them as comfortable as you can over the winter months. Here are some tips from The British Rabbit Council.

Rabbits, like many other animals, find winter tough. They do not hibernate and they will rely on their owners for survival. Even though Mother Nature will supply them with a warm winter coat, a little extra thought will be needed. These tips will help your readers help their pet rabbit, Britain's third most popular pet.

Bedding must be clean and dry at all times. Wet bedding could freeze!

Keep an old towel for your rabbit and gently dry him if he gets unexpectedly wet.

Rabbits do not like draughts, especially at night. If his hutch is outside, make sure it is fitted with a rain and wind proof cover for bad weather and night time. It should hang down over the front but it should allow a little air for ventilation. However, a rabbit will thrive with its hutch outside or in a garden shed, even in harsh conditions - no need to bring the hutch into the living room!

If the hutch has an outside run onto grass or concrete, close it off until spring arrives.

Rabbits like a little greenery in their diet but make sure that they are not frosted or frozen when given to your rabbit - this could easily result in a fatality. Best keep foodstuffs in your kitchen so they stay at room temperature.

Your rabbit's water should be kept free of ice at all times. Don't allow it to freeze.

Diet need not be necessarily altered but rabbits do like a little hay in the winter as an extra. Don't go mad or you may have a tubby rabbit to deal with in the spring! A handful will be plenty.

Even when winter seems very quiet for wildlife, foxes and vermin are still busy and extra hungry. Make sure that your rabbit's hutch is secure and safe.

If you are thinking about taking on a pet rabbit, springtime is probably better than winter as at is easier for you too. You will have your chores down to a fine art by the time bad weather arrives! The British Rabbit Council has a booklet called 'Getting Started in Rabbits' for £1 plus 50p p&p. Send your name, address and cheque or postal order to The British Rabbit Council, Purefoy House, 7 Kirkgate, Newark, Notts, NG24 1AD. (If you mention PetPlanet's website you will also be sent additional leaflets.)

For any advice on rabbits or where to find the breed of your choice, ring The British Rabbit Council on 01636 676042.

			Visit the Petplanet.co.uk online shop to see our full range of small animal products designed to make your pet as comfortable as possible over the winter months. Including Housing, Litter & Bedding, Food, Bowls/Feeders and Health Products.