The Association of Shelter Veterinarians’ Guidelines for Humane Rabbit Housing in Animal Shelters

The Association of Shelter Veterinarians’ Guidelines for Humane Rabbit Housing in Animal Shelters provide an essential resource for anyone committed to improving rabbit welfare. These guidelines outline facility recommendations, enclosure specifications and daily care practices designed to promote rabbit welfare, reduce illness and support successful adoption outcomes. By following these science-based standards, shelters can create a compassionate, healthy environment that reflects the highest level of humane care.

Why Humane Rabbit Housing Matters

Rabbits are the third most commonly surrendered companion animals in the United States. Proper housing directly affects their physical health, behavioral well-being and adoptability. The ASV guidelines offer clear direction to help shelters:

• Reduce stress-related illness in rabbits
• Improve sanitation and disease prevention
• Support natural rabbit behaviors
• Provide comfortable, humane and safe enclosures
• Enhance overall animal shelter operations and staff efficiency

Core Principles of the ASV Rabbit Housing Guidelines

1. Adequate Space and Enclosure Design

The guidelines recommend housing that allows rabbits to:

• Stand upright on their hind legs
• Stretch out fully
• Move freely and perform natural behaviors
• Access separate areas for resting, eating and toileting

Shelters are encouraged to use solid flooring, roomy indoor housing and secure, escape-proof enclosures.

2. Environmental Enrichment

Enrichment supports mental health and reduces stress in sheltered rabbits. ASV recommends:

• Hiding boxes and shelters
• Chew-safe items for dental health
• Digging and shredding materials
• Social interaction when appropriate

These elements help maintain normal behavior and improve adoptability.

3. Temperature and Climate Control

Rabbits are sensitive to heat and drafts. Humane housing includes:

• Stable indoor temperatures within a safe range
• Adequate ventilation
• Quiet, low-stress locations within the shelter

Climate control is essential for reducing heat stress and respiratory issues.

4. Cleanliness, Sanitation and Disease Prevention

The guidelines highlight the importance of:

• Routine cleaning and disinfection
• Litter boxes with rabbit-safe substrates
• Separation of sick rabbits
• Housing designed to reduce cross-contamination

This promotes biosecurity and protects both rabbits and staff.

5. Social Considerations

Because rabbits vary in social compatibility, the ASV recommends:

• Pairing or grouping only when behaviorally appropriate
• Monitoring bonded pairs
• Providing individual spaces when needed

Behavior-based housing decisions reduce stress and prevent injury.

Implementing the ASV Rabbit Housing Guidelines in Your Shelter

Upgrading facilities and practices according to the ASV guidelines helps shelters:

• Increase live-release rates
• Improve staff safety and efficiency
• Enhance community trust
• Demonstrate compliance with modern animal care expectations

Organizations can integrate the guidelines into operational protocols, staff training and facility planning.

To meet ASV standards, shelters should provide:

• Unlimited access to grass hay
• Fresh, clean water
• Balanced diets appropriate for each rabbit
• Daily health checks
• Regular opportunities for exercise and interaction

These practices contribute to healthier, more adoptable rabbits.

Have questions about implementing these new guidelines? Contact our Shelter Medicine veterinarians for help.