When can baby bunnies go out into the grass?

[Skyz84]

We usually put our adult rabbits out into playpens in the yard a few times a week. At what age can babies go out to play in the pen too? Ours are 17 days old today and hopping around there cage.
Thanks!

 

[Frosted Rabbits]

Make sure they are already well fed, and put them out with momma, with some of the type of food from their cage available, as well. this way, they nibble, nurse, nibble whatever-- they are getting introduced to the fresh stuff the way nature intended... Don;t leave them o the grass for a long time, maybe 15 minutes to start, then work up 10-15 minutes a day..

 

[Skyz84]

Thanks =) That is kind of what I was thinking. Just wanted to make sure it was safe.

 

[MamaSheepdog]

:!: I would watch the cuteness meter closely- baby bunnies frolicking in the grass can cause dangerous levels of the AWWW-Factor, often leading to even more severe Rabbitosis.

I agree with Frosted Rabbits. We do the same with our horses when first turning them out to graze in the spring. Full bellies, short time out, gradually increasing the time span over a week or so.

 

[arachyd]

I would start to prepare them by giving a few blades of grass each day for a few days so they don't go trying to fill their bellies with it the first time they're out. This will help you avoid bunnies with digestive upset.

 

[AnnClaire]

I started mine out in a cage on the strawberry bed (no strawberry plants in it yet, just got it ready last fall) where I have had grass clippings mulching it all winter. They might nibble the dried grass, but it will not upset their tummies. About day 4 or 5, I started with a handful of green weeds for 11 babies ... just enough for them to get a taste, not enough to upset tummies. Also, be sure to have a large pan/bowl of water. They will need more water for some reason :lol:

I also would not put them out with mom ... part of getting them out of the cage is to give mom a break, so maybe her in a pen right next to the babies so they can see and smell her

I also take the top off of a pet carrier and put it in the pen so if the babies do want to take a nap, they have a "hole" to get into. Then, they will spend most of the time hopping on top of it and digging under it :lol:

I also find that a log with the bark still on makes a great play toy for adults and babies! They will play "king of the mountain" or start "digging to china"!