Can Rabbits Live Happily in an Apartment?
Yes, rabbits can live happily in an apartment if they have a compatible rabbit companion and enough permanent space to run, hide and rest. For two average-sized rabbits, the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund recommends a single area of at least 3 × 2 metres and 1 metre high, available at all times. They also need hay, safe flooring and a rabbit-proofed home.
Image: Pets in Wonderland
Key points
- Rabbits are social animals and should not be kept alone; a neutered pair is the usual recommendation.
- Welfare guidance emphasises constant access to a large exercise area, not brief daily "out of cage" time.
- Unlimited grass hay is the foundation of the diet; muesli-style mixes are not recommended.
- Rabbits chew cables and skirting: rabbit-proofing is not optional in a flat.
Space in practice
Think of the enclosure and the exercise area as one connected space, available all day. A rabbit should be able to take several hops in a straight line, stretch out fully, and stand on its hind legs without touching the ceiling of its space. A pen attached to a rabbit-proofed room usually works better in a flat than any commercial cage alone. For two average-sized rabbits, the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund recommends a single area of at least 3 × 2 metres and 1 metre high, available at all times.
Diet
- Unlimited fresh grass hay or growing grass.
- A daily portion of suitable leafy greens.
- A small, measured amount of good-quality pellets.
- Constant fresh water.
If a rabbit stops eating or passing droppings, contact a vet immediately..
Litter training and cleanliness
Most rabbits use a tray readily, especially after neutering. Put a tray in the corner they choose, with hay at one end. Spot-clean daily and change fully every few days to keep a small flat fresh.
Rabbit-proofing an apartment
- Cover or reroute cables.
- Protect skirting boards and furniture legs.
- Remove houseplants that are toxic to rabbits.
- Block gaps behind appliances and under low furniture.
- Use non-slip flooring; smooth laminate can cause injuries.
Health and veterinary care
Rabbits need vaccination against myxomatosis and rabbit haemorrhagic disease in many countries, annual health checks, dental checks and neutering. Find a practice experienced with rabbits before you need one — rabbits hide illness and deteriorate fast.
When an apartment is not suitable
Reconsider if you cannot give a permanent large exercise area, cannot keep a pair, cannot rabbit-proof the space, or if a resident cat or dog cannot be safely kept apart.
Read next
-Rabbit stories from small homes
-https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/symptoms/my-rabbit-isn-t-eating-properly
-https://rabbitwelfare.co.uk/welfare-need/space-recommendations/
Sources and further reading
- Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund — Minimum space requirements for pet rabbits
- RSPCA — Keeping rabbits in your home
- PDSA — Keeping indoor rabbits
- PDSA — Reduced appetite in a rabbit
This practical tip is general information, not veterinary advice. For anything specific to your animal, please speak to a qualified vet.