Best Rabbit Cages & Hutches 2026: Indoor and Outdoor Housing for Happy Bunnies

Why Rabbit Housing Is Different From Other Small Pets

Rabbits are often categorized as "starter pets" alongside hamsters and guinea pigs, but their housing requirements are fundamentally different 鈥?and significantly more demanding. A rabbit is not a rodent (it's a lagomorph), and its housing needs reflect its unique physiology and behavior. Rabbits are crepuscular (most active at dawn and dusk), territorial, and naturally burrowing animals who require space to run, jump, stand fully upright on their hind legs, stretch out to full length, and engage in natural behaviors like digging, chewing, and hiding. A cage that's adequate for a guinea pig or hamster will be actively harmful to a rabbit's physical and mental health.

The single most common mistake in rabbit housing is undersized cages. Pet stores overwhelmingly sell cages labeled "rabbit" that are actually designed for guinea pigs or ferrets 鈥?typically 24x18 inches or 30x18 inches with a single level. These cages are 1/4 to 1/3 the size a rabbit needs. A rabbit confined to a cage this small cannot stretch out fully, cannot stand on its hind legs without touching the top, cannot run more than two hops, and cannot express normal behaviors. The resulting stress manifests as: fur pulling (barbering), over-grooming leading to bald patches, aggressive biting when the cage door opens, litter box aversion (they start eliminating outside the box because the living area and bathroom are too close together), and depression (lethargy, lack of interest in food or interaction). Veterinary behaviorists consistently report that undersized housing is the root cause of more rabbit behavioral problems than any other single factor.

The minimum recommended cage size for a single rabbit is 30x36 inches (about 8 square feet of floor space) for a small breed (Netherland Dwarf, Holland Lop) and 30x48 inches (10+ square feet) for medium and large breeds (Rex, Mini Rex, New Zealand, Flemish Giant). This is the minimum for the cage itself 鈥?rabbits also need daily exercise time outside the cage (minimum 4 hours per day in a rabbit-proofed room or exercise pen). The cage must be tall enough for the rabbit to stand on its hind legs without touching the top 鈥?minimum 24 inches for small breeds, 28-30 inches for large breeds. Wire-bottom cages are strongly discouraged by rabbit veterinarians 鈥?wire flooring causes sore hocks (painful ulcerated sores on the bottoms of the feet) because rabbits don't have paw pads like cats and dogs; they have fur-covered feet with delicate skin that's not designed for wire surfaces. Solid flooring with absorbent bedding is essential.

Outdoor hutches present additional challenges. Rabbits are highly sensitive to temperature extremes 鈥?their ideal temperature range is 60-70鎺矲, and they cannot tolerate temperatures above 85鎺矲 (heat stroke is fatal within hours) or below 40鎺矲 (hypothermia, especially in small breeds and senior rabbits). Outdoor hutches must be: protected from direct sun and rain (rabbits die from heat stroke in minutes in direct summer sun), draft-free but ventilated, predator-proof (raccoons, foxes, dogs, cats, hawks, and snakes can all attack through flimsy wire), and elevated off the ground to protect from ground-level dampness and cold. Many rabbit welfare organizations now recommend against outdoor housing entirely for pet rabbits 鈥?indoor housing is safer, healthier, and provides better opportunities for social interaction.

This guide covers the best rabbit cages and hutches for every scenario: indoor wire exercise pens and C&C cages (the gold standard for indoor rabbits), large wooden hutches with attached runs (for outdoor housing), stacked two-level cages (for multi-rabbit households), portable and travel cages (for vet visits and temporary housing), and DIY enclosure options for owners who want to build their own custom rabbit habitat. We evaluated each enclosure on interior space (square footage and height), material safety, ease of cleaning, ventilation, predator resistance (outdoor models), and value for money.

What to Look For in a Rabbit Cage: The Critical Factors

• Floor Space 閳?Bigger Is Non-Negotiable: The minimum floor space for a single rabbit is 8 square feet (a 24x48 inch enclosure or equivalent). For two rabbits (bonded pairs are strongly recommended for social wellbeing), minimum is 12 square feet (36x48 inches). The floor space must be continuous 閳?lofted levels and ramps do not count toward the minimum because rabbits need room to run horizontally. The cage must allow three full consecutive hops for the rabbit's body length. For a Flemish Giant (the largest domestic breed, up to 20+ pounds and 30+ inches long), the minimum is 16 square feet. If the cage doesn't provide this space, you need a larger cage or an attached exercise pen
• Height 閳?Rabbits Need to Stand Up: Rabbits naturally stand on their hind legs to survey their environment ('periscoping'). A cage must be tall enough for the rabbit to stand fully upright without touching the top. For small breeds (Netherland Dwarf, Holland Lop), the minimum height is 24 inches. For medium breeds (Rex, Mini Rex, New Zealand), 26-28 inches. For large breeds (Flemish Giant, Checkered Giant), 30-36 inches. If the cage top is less than 24 inches high, a rabbit cannot fully extend its ears and body when standing, which is uncomfortable and restricts natural behavior. Exercise pens (X-pens) are ideal because they have no top 閳?they provide unlimited vertical space and can be covered with a sheet or grid top only as needed for containment
• Flooring 閳?Solid, Not Wire: Wire-bottom cages are the most common type sold in pet stores for rabbits, and they are the most harmful. Rabbit feet are covered in thick fur with no paw pads 閳?the fur provides cushioning and the skin underneath is delicate. Wire floors trap and pull fur, cause pressure sores on the feet (sore hocks), and allow urine to pool at the foot contact points, causing urine scald and bacterial dermatitis. Solid flooring is the only acceptable surface. The best option is a smooth, non-porous surface (virgin vinyl flooring, a sheet of linoleum, or a smooth plastic cage tray) covered with a thick layer of absorbent bedding (paper-based bedding, aspen shavings, or hay/straw in the litter area). Never use pine or cedar shavings (the phenols cause liver damage in rabbits). If you already own a wire-bottom cage, cover the wire with a section of vinyl flooring, a piece of untreated plywood, or a thick layer of cardboard topped with bedding
• Ventilation 閳?Airflow Without Drafts: Rabbits have sensitive respiratory systems and are prone to respiratory infections (Pasteurella multocida, the bacterium that causes snuffles, is endemic in many rabbit populations). A cage must have adequate airflow to prevent ammonia buildup from urine and to reduce bacterial growth in humid conditions. The minimum ventilation requirement is two sides of the cage with open area (bars, wire mesh, or ventilation slots). Fully enclosed cages (wood with only a front door) are inadequate for rabbits and will cause respiratory problems within weeks. However, the cage must not be drafty 閳?rabbits cannot tolerate cold drafts that blow directly on them. The ideal balance is side and top ventilation with solid lower walls that deflect floor-level drafts. Indoor cages should be placed away from air conditioning vents, open windows, and exterior doors
• Accessibility for Cleaning: Rabbit cages need thorough cleaning every 2-3 days 閳?rabbits produce 200-300 droppings per day (cecotropes plus fecal pellets) plus significant urine output. A cage with a small door that you can barely fit your arm through makes cleaning a nightmare and leads to skipped cleanings. Look for cages with: a full front opening door, a removable top, or a pull-out tray that you can access without dismantling the cage. The cage tray must be removable and easily washable. The cage frame should be easy to wipe down without removing rabbits from the cage (stressful). For outdoor hutches, the hutch should have a full-front opening or a roof that opens completely for cleaning access
• Rabbit-Proofing and Safety: Rabbits are chewing animals 閳?their incisors grow continuously at a rate of 2-4 mm per week, and they must gnaw constantly to keep them trimmed. A rabbit cage must be constructed from materials that cannot be chewed through. Avoid cages with painted or powder-coated bars (rabbits will chip and ingest the paint), untreated wood interior corners (rabbits will chew through wooden corners within days), and thin plastic tray edges (rabbits will chew and ingest plastic fragments). The safest cage materials are: heavy-gauge wire mesh (14-gauge or thicker) with powder coating that's been tested for rabbit safety, galvanized after welding (GAW) wire that's smooth and won't rust, and solid plastic trays made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) that resists chewing better than standard polypropylene. For indoor exercise pens, look for panels with 1-inch bar spacing or closer (rabbits can squeeze through spaces wider than 2 inches) and bars that are sturdy enough that the rabbit cannot bend them

Top 7 Rabbit Cages & Hutches for 2026

Best rabbit cages and hutches for indoor and outdoor housing

1. Tespo Pet Exercise Pen with Waterproof Floor 閳?Best Indoor Rabbit Enclosure (Gold Standard)

The Tespo Pet Exercise Pen combined with a waterproof floor liner is the gold standard recommended by rabbit rescues and veterinarians for indoor rabbit housing. The exercise pen (X-pen) is a free-standing enclosure made from heavy-gauge wire panels (14-gauge, powder-coated black or white) that connect with pressure-fit snap joints. The pen is 36 inches tall (allowing even Flemish Giants to stand upright) and configurable in any shape from 24x24 inches to 48x48 inches or larger by adding additional panels. The 8-panel configuration (a typical minimum) creates a 32x32 inch interior with about 7 square feet of floor space 鈥?adequate for a single small to medium rabbit, and you can expand to 12+ panels (48x48 inches, 16 square feet) for larger rabbits or bonded pairs.

The key to making an X-pen work as a primary rabbit enclosure is the waterproof floor. Tespo sells a compatible vinyl floor liner that fits inside the pen 鈥?a solid, non-porous vinyl sheet with raised edges that contains bedding, hay, and spills. The vinyl floor provides the solid surface rabbits need (no wire contact with feet) and is waterproof, so urine doesn't soak into the floor beneath. The floor liner is easy to clean: sweep or vacuum daily, wipe down with white vinegar solution weekly, and hose off for deep cleaning monthly. The X-pen panels are chew-resistant (the powder coating deters chewing, though determined chewers may still gnaw the bars), and the panel spacing is small enough (1.5 inches) that even small rabbits can't escape. The pen is portable (folds flat for storage), expandable (add panels as needed), and stackable (stack two pens vertically for a two-level rabbit condo). At $60-100 for the pen plus $30-40 for the floor liner, the total cost is $90-140 鈥?comparable to a large rabbit cage but with significantly more usable space and no height limitation.

Pros:

• 36-inch height 鈥?allows even the largest rabbit breeds to stand fully upright without touching the top
• Customizable size 鈥?start with 8 panels and expand to 12, 16, or 24 panels as your rabbit's space needs grow
• No top required for most indoor setups 鈥?rabbits don't need a lid if the pen walls are 36+ inches tall
• Solid waterproof vinyl floor liner 鈥?protects your floors, provides safe solid surface for rabbit feet, easy to clean
• 14-gauge powder-coated wire 鈥?sturdy and chew-resistant (not chew-proof, but more durable than thin wire cages)
• Portable and foldable 鈥?disassembles flat for storage, travel, or moving between rooms
• 1.5-inch bar spacing 鈥?prevents escape of small rabbits and kits
• $90-140 complete with floor 鈥?excellent value for a rabbit enclosure that provides more usable space than any traditional cage
• Recommended by rabbit rescues and veterinarians 鈥?the consensus gold standard for indoor rabbit housing

Cons:

• No built-in second level 鈥?active rabbits may prefer a loft or shelf, which you must add separately (use a sturdy shelf or cat tree inside the pen)
• No integrated litter box holder 鈥?you must place a separate litter box inside the pen (recommended anyway for litter training)
• Wire floor panels 鈥?the pen has no floor; you must buy the vinyl floor liner separately (the Tespo liner is recommended)
• Determined chewers can gnaw the powder coating 鈥?supervise rabbits who are chronic chewers and use chew guards on vulnerable corners
• Not suitable for outdoor use 鈥?the pen is not weatherproof and the panels can rust if exposed to rain
• Snap-joint connections can loosen over time 鈥?check and tighten periodically, especially if rabbits push against the panels

Rating: 5/5 | Best For: Indoor rabbits of all breeds and sizes, owners who prioritize space and vertical freedom, bonded rabbit pairs, rabbit rescues and foster homes

2. MidWest Rabbit Cage with Divider 閳?Best Traditional Rabbit Cage with Expandable Option

The MidWest Rabbit Cage (model 153) is the best-selling traditional rabbit cage for good reason 鈥?it provides 8 square feet of continuous floor space (30 x 48 inches), a solid plastic base with 4-inch sides (deep enough for bedding without scattering), and a clever divider panel that can split the cage into two sections for feeding/resting separation or for use as a quarantine cage for a second rabbit. The cage is 18 inches tall 鈥?acceptable for small to medium breeds but too short for large breeds (Flemish Giants cannot stand upright). The wire top and front door provide excellent ventilation. The base is made from high-density plastic that resists chewing better than thinner plastic trays. The pull-out tray underneath the wire floor is removable for cleaning, but the wire floor itself is the main drawback 鈥?it must be covered with a solid surface (corrugated plastic, vinyl flooring, or thick cardboard) to prevent sore hocks.

The MidWest cage is an excellent choice for owners who want a traditional rabbit cage with solid construction and the ability to expand later. The cage comes with casters (locking wheels) that make it easy to move for cleaning. The front door opens fully for access, and there's a secondary access door on the top. The divider is useful for: separating two rabbits during bonding, creating a feeding area away from the litter box, or isolating a sick rabbit within the cage. At $90-120, the MidWest is priced competitively for its size 鈥?it's significantly larger than the 30x18 inch cages that dominate the pet store shelves, and the solid base with deep sides is superior for containing bedding. The key modification: cover the wire floor with a solid surface immediately upon purchase 鈥?MidWest sells a compatible floor pan ($30) or you can DIY with a section of vinyl flooring or bathroom mat.

Pros:

• 8 square feet of floor space (30x48 inches) 鈥?meets the minimum requirement for a single small to medium rabbit
• Solid plastic base with 4-inch sides 鈥?contains bedding and hay effectively, prevents litter scatter
• Included divider panel 鈥?useful for separation, bonding, quarantine, or creating distinct living zones
• Locking casters included 鈥?easy to move the cage for cleaning
• Full-front and top access doors 鈥?good access for cleaning and interaction
• Sturdy construction 鈥?14-gauge wire top, thick plastic base, durable enough for daily use
• $90-120 鈥?reasonable price for an 8-square-foot cage with divider and casters
• Compatible with MidWest floor pan (sold separately) 鈥?cover the wire floor for rabbit safety

Cons:

• Only 18 inches tall 鈥?insufficient for large breeds who need to stand upright; acceptable for small to medium breeds (Netherland Dwarf, Holland Lop, Mini Rex)
• Wire floor is harmful to rabbit feet 鈥?MUST be covered with a solid surface immediately; the wire floor alone is not suitable for rabbit occupancy
• 8 square feet is the minimum 鈥?adequate for one rabbit but too small for a bonded pair or for a rabbit who spends most of the day in the cage
• Plastic tray can be chewed by determined rabbits 鈥?monitor and replace if chewing damage appears
• No water bottle or food bowl included 鈥?must purchase separately
• Divider is plastic and can be chewed if used for separation 鈥?metal grid divider would be more durable

Rating: 4/5 | Best For: Small to medium breed rabbits, owners who want a traditional cage with expandable options, first-time rabbit owners, budget-conscious buyers

3. PawHut Outdoor Rabbit Hutch with Run 閳?Best Outdoor Hutch for Backyard Rabbits

The PawHut Outdoor Rabbit Hutch with Run is the best-designed outdoor hutch at a reasonable price 鈥?a two-story wooden hutch with a ground-level enclosed run that provides the space and predator protection outdoor rabbits need. The hutch measures 63 x 20 x 40 inches overall, with the top level being a weatherproof enclosed hutch (63 x 20 x 20 inches of interior space) connected by a ramp to the ground-level run (63 x 20 x 20 inches of enclosed outdoor space). The hutch is made from solid fir wood with a water-resistant asphalt roof. The run is enclosed with heavy-gauge galvanized wire mesh (1-inch spacing) on three sides, providing ventilation and outdoor access while protecting from predators. The hutch has a removable tray (pull-out cleaning tray in the top level) and a solid wood floor in the run section.

The PawHut hutch provides a total of about 17 square feet across both levels 鈥?adequate for a single rabbit or a bonded pair of small to medium rabbits. The enclosed hutch section provides shelter from rain, sun, and wind, while the run section allows the rabbit to access fresh air, sunlight, and grass underneath (if placed on grass). The hutch is elevated on 12-inch legs that prevent ground-level moisture and provide airflow underneath. The wood construction provides better insulation than metal cages, keeping the hutch cooler in summer and warmer in winter 鈥?essential for outdoor rabbits. Assembly takes about 2-3 hours with two people (the instructions are in diagram-only format, which requires some interpretation). At $170-220, the PawHut offers the best value for an outdoor hutch with an attached run 鈥?comparable products from brands like Aivituvin and Trixie cost $50-100 more for similar features.

Pros:

• Two-story design with enclosed hutch + ground-level run 鈥?provides weather shelter and outdoor space in one unit
• Solid fir wood construction with asphalt roof 鈥?weatherproof, insulated, more durable than painted particleboard alternatives
• Heavy-gauge galvanized wire mesh (1-inch spacing) 鈥?predator-resistant, good ventilation
• 17 total square feet across both levels 鈥?adequate for one rabbit or a bonded pair of small-medium rabbits
• 12-inch legs elevate hutch off the ground 鈥?prevents moisture damage, provides airflow, discourages ground-level predators
• Pull-out tray in hutch section 鈥?simplifies cleaning the upper level, no need to fully disassemble
• Ramp connecting levels 鈥?rabbits enjoy the vertical access and exercise from climbing the ramp
• $170-220 鈥?best value for a two-story hutch with run, $50-100 less than comparable models

Cons:

• Wood construction requires maintenance 鈥?must be treated annually with pet-safe wood sealant to prevent rot
• 20-inch width is narrow 鈥?large breed rabbits (Flemish Giants) cannot fully stretch out width-wise
• Run section is not weatherproof 鈥?rain can blow into the run if not positioned against a wall or covered with a tarp
• Ramp is steep for some rabbits 鈥?senior rabbits or rabbits with mobility issues may struggle to use the ramp
• Assembly is time-consuming and instructions are poor 鈥?expect 2-3 hours of work with diagram-only guidance
• Not predator-proof against determined raccoons or dogs 鈥?the wire mesh can be bent or torn by a large predator; reinforce with additional hardware cloth if predators are a concern in your area

Rating: 4/5 | Best For: Backyard housing for small to medium rabbit breeds, owners who can provide daily supervision, rabbits who live outdoors in temperate climates, owners on a budget for an outdoor hutch

4. Ferplast Bella Rabbit Indoor Cage 閳?Best Indoor Cage with Deep Plastic Base

The Ferplast Bella Rabbit Indoor Cage is a well-designed indoor cage that prioritizes the things rabbits actually need 鈥?a deep plastic base for bedding, solid flooring (no wire), good ventilation, and easy access for cleaning. The cage measures 40 x 24 x 20 inches (about 6.5 square feet of floor space), which is adequate for small rabbit breeds but below the recommended minimum for medium and large breeds. The standout feature is the 8-inch deep plastic base 鈥?this is the deepest base available on a standard rabbit cage, allowing you to fill 3-4 inches of paper bedding plus hay, which rabbits love to burrow into. The deep base also contains kicking and scattering behavior (rabbits kick bedding backward when they dig, and a shallow base allows the bedding to scatter across the floor). The cage uses a solid plastic floor (no wire) 鈥?the floor is smooth, easy to clean, and completely safe for rabbit feet.

The cage has two large front doors that open fully, plus a top door for access. The wire spacing is narrow enough (1.5 inches) to prevent escape of small rabbits. The cage is mounted on casters for mobility. A shelf platform (included) provides a second level that rabbits appreciate for perching and surveying the room. The Ferplast is easy to clean: the deep base lifts out, you dump the bedding, wash the base with vinegar solution, dry and refill. At $130-170, the Ferplast is more expensive than similar-sized cages from MidWest or Living World, but the deep base and solid floor justify the premium 鈥?you won't need to buy a separate floor cover or modify the cage to make it safe for your rabbit.

Pros:

• 8-inch deep plastic base 鈥?the deepest standard base available, excellent for deep bedding and burrowing behavior
• Solid plastic floor 鈥?no wire contact with rabbit feet, completely safe, no modification needed
• Deep base contains bedding scatter 鈥?significantly less mess around the cage compared to shallow-base cages
• Two large front doors + top door 鈥?excellent access for cleaning and interaction
• Included shelf platform 鈥?provides a second level for perching and surveying
• 1.5-inch bar spacing 鈥?secure for small to medium rabbits
• Casters included 鈥?easy mobility for cleaning
• Easy to clean 鈥?deep base lifts out for washing, smooth plastic doesn't trap bacteria

Cons:

• Only 6.5 square feet of floor space 鈥?below the minimum recommendation for rabbits; adequate for small breeds only (Netherland Dwarf, Holland Lop) with daily exercise time
• 20-inch height 鈥?insufficient for large breeds to stand upright
• Expensive for its size 鈥?$130-170, which is $40-50 more than comparable size cages from other brands
• Plastic base can be chewed 鈥?rabbits with chronic chewing behavior may damage the deep base edges
• No water bottle or food bowl included 鈥?must purchase separately
• Limited color options 鈥?only available in gray/white combinations

Rating: 4/5 | Best For: Small breed rabbits (Netherland Dwarf, Holland Lop), indoor housing with deep bedding, owners who want a solid-floor cage without modification, single rabbits who get daily exercise time

5. Aivituvin Outdoor Rabbit Hutch with Wheels 閳?Best Premium Outdoor Hutch

The Aivituvin Outdoor Rabbit Hutch is the premium option for backyard rabbit housing 鈥?a well-constructed wooden hutch with a covered ground-level run, sturdy metal wheels for mobility, and design details that demonstrate genuine understanding of rabbit needs. The hutch measures 47 x 26 x 44 inches total (the hutch section is 47 x 26 x 20 inches, the run is 47 x 26 x 24 inches), providing about 17 square feet of total space across two levels. The hutch is made from solid fir wood with a water-resistant asphalt shingle roof. The run section is enclosed with 1-inch galvanized wire mesh that provides ventilation and predator protection. The hutch section has a solid wood floor (not wire), which is excellent for rabbit foot health. A pull-out tray in the hutch section makes cleaning manageable without dismantling the structure.

Aivituvin's construction quality is noticeably better than budget brands 鈥?the wood is thicker (15mm vs. 10-12mm on budget models), the joints are more precise, and the paint finish is more durable. The hutch comes with four metal wheels that lock in place, making it easy to move the hutch around the yard (essential for rotating the hutch to fresh grass areas and for moving it into a sheltered area during storms). The ramp connecting the hutch to the run has ridges for traction and a guard rail to prevent falls. Assembly takes 1-2 hours with clear instructions (actual text, not just diagrams). At $260-330, the Aivituvin is 30-40% more expensive than the PawHut but the better materials, easier assembly, and mobility wheels justify the premium for owners who plan to keep their rabbit outdoors long-term.

Pros:

• Solid wood floor in hutch section 鈥?no wire contact with rabbit feet, superior to budget hutches with wire floors
• Thicker wood construction (15mm) 鈥?more durable than budget hutches, better insulation, longer lifespan
• Locking metal wheels 鈥?easy to move the hutch around the yard, rotate to fresh grass, or move to shelter during storms
• 17 square feet across two levels 鈥?adequate for a bonded pair of small to medium rabbits
• Asphalt shingle roof 鈥?waterproof, durable, provides good shade coverage for the hutch section
• 1-inch galvanized wire mesh on run 鈥?predator-resistant, good ventilation
• Pull-out tray for cleaning 鈥?quick and convenient, no need to remove rabbits or dismantle the hutch
• Clear assembly instructions 鈥?1-2 hour assembly, straightforward with text + diagrams

Cons:

• Expensive 鈥?$260-330, significantly more than budget outdoor hutches
• 26-inch width is adequate but not generous 鈥?large rabbits would benefit from wider dimensions
• Run section is not fully enclosed on the top 鈥?the top of the run is wire mesh, which provides some sun protection but doesn't create a fully covered outdoor space
• Wood requires annual treatment 鈥?must seal the wood with pet-safe sealant each spring to prevent weathering and rot
• Not suitable for very cold climates 鈥?the 15mm wood provides some insulation but outdoor rabbits need supplemental heat when temperatures drop below 40鎺矲

Rating: 4.5/5 | Best For: Long-term outdoor rabbit housing, bonded rabbit pairs, owners who want a mobile hutch that can be moved around the yard, temperate climates with moderate weather

6. Prevue Pet Products Small Animal Cage 閳?Best Budget Two-Level Indoor Cage

The Prevue Pet Products Small Animal Cage (model 440) is a two-level cage designed for rabbits and guinea pigs that provides 6.5 square feet of floor space per level (13 square feet total) at a very affordable price. The cage measures 31 x 20 x 36 inches overall, with the two levels connected by a wire ramp. Each level has a solid plastic floor (not wire, safe for rabbit feet), deep enough for a thin layer of bedding. The cage has two large front doors on the lower level and a top door on the upper level for access. The cage is made from powder-coated wire with a black finish. The wire spacing is 1.5 inches, suitable for small to medium rabbits.

The two-level design effectively doubles the usable space of a single-level cage, but it's important to understand that stacked levels do not replace horizontal floor space 鈥?a rabbit cannot run or exercise on a ramp and second level the way it can on a continuous ground floor. The Prevue 440 is best used as a "base camp" cage that's supplemented with daily exercise time in a rabbit-proofed room or exercise pen. The cage is suitable for a single small to medium rabbit or as a temporary housing solution. At $70-90, it's one of the most affordable two-level cages on the market 鈥?the construction is adequate but not premium (the wire is 18-gauge, thinner than the 14-gauge wire on higher-end cages), and the plastic trays are relatively thin and can be chewed by determined rabbits. For the price, it's a reasonable option for owners on a tight budget who need a two-level cage.

Pros:

• $70-90 鈥?very affordable for a two-level rabbit cage with solid floors on both levels
• Two levels with ramp provide 13 square feet total 鈥?more vertical exploration space than single-level cages
• Solid plastic floors on both levels 鈥?no wire contact with rabbit feet, safe and easy to clean
• Full front doors on lower level + top door on upper level 鈥?good access for cleaning and interaction
• Removable plastic trays 鈥?easy to take out and wash
• 1.5-inch wire spacing 鈥?secure for small to medium rabbits
• Lightweight 鈥?easy to move and clean

Cons:

• 18-gauge wire is thinner than ideal 鈥?determined rabbits may bend the bars or chew through the powder coating
• Floor space per level is only 6.5 square feet 鈥?below the minimum recommendation for a single rabbit on either level alone
• Ramp is steep 鈥?some rabbits may not use the second level (especially seniors or rabbits with arthritis)
• Plastic trays are thin 鈥?can be chewed by chronic chewers, may crack if overfilled with heavy bedding
• Height per level is 17 inches 鈥?insufficient for large breeds to stand upright, acceptable for small breeds
• Not suitable as a primary cage for rabbits without daily exercise time 鈥?strictly a base camp cage, not a full-time housing solution

Rating: 3.5/5 | Best For: Budget-conscious owners, small rabbit breeds (Netherland Dwarf, Holland Lop), as a secondary cage or base camp for rabbits with daily exercise time, temporary housing

7. Living World Deluxe Rabbit Habitat 閳?Best Two-Level Cage with Deep Base

The Living World Deluxe Rabbit Habitat is a well-designed two-level cage that addresses the most common complaint about rabbit cages 鈥?shallow bases that allow bedding to scatter. The Living World has a 7-inch deep plastic base on the lower level (the deepest base on a two-level cage) and a 5-inch deep tray on the upper level. The cage measures 39 x 20 x 27 inches overall, with the lower level providing 5.5 square feet and the upper level providing 4.5 square feet. The cage includes a wire-free ramp with ridged steps (better traction than bare wire ramps) and a platform rest area on the upper level. The doors are large (full front doors, both levels) with secure latches. The wire is powder-coated with 1-inch spacing 鈥?the tightest spacing of any cage in this guide, making it escape-proof for even the smallest rabbits and kits.

The Living World cage is designed for owners who want a complete, ready-to-use habitat without modifications. The deep base contains bedding effectively, the solid plastic floors (both levels) are safe for rabbit feet, the ramp is easy for rabbits to navigate, and the narrow bar spacing prevents escapes and keeps out curious household pets (cats, small dogs). The cage is best suited for a single small to medium rabbit (Netherland Dwarf, Holland Lop, Mini Rex) who gets daily exercise time outside the cage. At $140-180, it's priced at the higher end of the two-level cage market, but the deep base, easy access, and complete design (no modifications needed) justify the cost for owners who want a turnkey rabbit habitat.

Pros:

• 7-inch deep base on lower level 鈥?excellent for deep bedding, burrowing, and containing scatter
• Solid plastic floors on both levels 鈥?safe for rabbit feet, easy to clean, no modification needed
• Ridged ramp with traction steps 鈥?easier for rabbits to navigate than bare wire ramps
• 1-inch bar spacing 鈥?the tightest spacing available, escape-proof for small rabbits and kits
• Large access doors on both levels 鈥?full-front opening for easy cleaning and interaction
• Secure door latches 鈥?rabbit cannot push the doors open from inside
• Two-level design provides vertical space for exploration and perching
• $140-180 鈥?premium pricing for a complete, no-modification-needed cage

Cons:

• Lower level floor space (5.5 sq ft) is below minimum recommendations 鈥?adequate only for small breeds with daily exercise
• 27-inch overall height limits vertical space on the upper level 鈥?larger breeds cannot stand fully upright
• Narrow 20-inch width 鈥?rabbits cannot take more than 2 consecutive hops in any direction
• Plastic base edges can be chewed 鈥?monitor and use chew guards if your rabbit is a chronic chewer
• Ramp occupies significant floor space 鈥?reduces the usable floor area on both levels
• Not suitable for a bonded pair of rabbits 鈥?too small for two rabbits to coexist comfortably

Rating: 4/5 | Best For: Small rabbit breeds, owners who want a turnkey cage without modifications, single rabbits who get daily exercise time, owners who value the deep base for bedding containment

Comparison Table

Product	Type	Floor Area	Height	Floor Type	Best For	Price
Tespo Exercise Pen + Floor	X-pen + vinyl floor	7-16+ sq ft	36"	Solid (vinyl liner)	Best indoor housing (all breeds)	$90-140
MidWest Rabbit Cage 153	Traditional cage	8 sq ft	18"	Wire (must cover)	Small-medium breeds, budget	$90-120
PawHut Outdoor Hutch	Wooden hutch + run	17 sq ft (2 levels)	20"+20"	Solid wood + wire	Outdoor, small-medium breeds	$170-220
Ferplast Bella Indoor Cage	Traditional cage	6.5 sq ft	20"	Solid plastic	Small breeds, deep bedding	$130-170
Aivituvin Outdoor Hutch	Wooden hutch + run	17 sq ft (2 levels)	20"+24"	Solid wood + wire	Premium outdoor housing	$260-330
Prevue 440 Two-Level	Two-level cage	6.5 sq ft/level	36" total	Solid plastic each	Budget two-level, small breeds	$70-90
Living World Deluxe	Two-level cage	5.5 + 4.5 sq ft	27" total	Solid plastic each	Small breeds, turnkey cage	$140-180

FAQ

Can a rabbit live in a cage all the time?

No. Even the largest rabbit cage is not a substitute for daily exercise and exploration time. Rabbits need a minimum of 4 hours per day outside their cage in a rabbit-proofed area where they can run, jump, explore, and engage with their environment. Rabbits who are confined to a cage 24/7 develop: muscle atrophy and obesity (rabbits need to run to maintain muscle mass and healthy weight), pododermatitis (sore hocks from standing in the same position on the same surface for extended periods), depression and lethargy (rabbits are intelligent, social animals who need environmental enrichment and interaction), and behavioral problems including cage aggression (biting, lunging when the door opens), fur pulling, and litter box refusal. The cage is the rabbit's home base 鈥?its safe sleeping and eating area 鈥?but it must be supplemented with daily exercise. If you cannot provide 4 hours of daily supervised exercise time, a rabbit may not be the right pet for your lifestyle.

What bedding is safest for rabbits?

The safest and most recommended bedding options are: paper-based bedding (Carefresh, Kaytee Clean & Cozy, small pet select paper bedding) 鈥?these are highly absorbent, dust-free, compostable, and safe if ingested in small amounts. Aspen shavings (from hardwood aspen) 鈥?safe, absorbent, and provides natural odor control; avoid pine and cedar shavings (the phenols in these softwoods cause liver damage and respiratory problems in rabbits). Hay (timothy hay or orchard grass) in the litter area 鈥?rabbits eat their hay while using the litter box (they naturally poop and eat hay simultaneously), and the hay provides a soft, absorbent surface. Unscented, plain paper towels or shredded newspaper 鈥?acceptable for temporary use (quarantine, travel) but less absorbent and comfortable than paper bedding. Avoid: clay cat litter (expands in the digestive tract if ingested, causes fatal impaction), clumping litter (the clumping agents are dangerous if eaten), and any scented or perfumed bedding (causes respiratory irritation). Never use corn cob bedding (molds quickly when wet, dangerous if ingested) or walnut shell bedding (sharp pieces cause intestinal damage).

Should I get one rabbit or a bonded pair?

Rabbits are highly social animals who thrive with a companion. In the wild, rabbits live in large colonies with complex social structures. A single rabbit living alone in a cage with minimal human interaction (most rabbit owners are at work or school for 8-10 hours per day) is at high risk of depression, loneliness, and stress-related health problems. Rabbit rescues and veterinarians strongly recommend keeping rabbits in bonded pairs (a neutered male + spayed female is the most stable pairing). The bonding process takes 2-8 weeks and requires patience and careful introduction, but the result is two rabbits who groom each other, sleep together, play together, and provide constant social interaction. Two bonded rabbits require a larger cage (minimum 12 square feet), but the improvement in their quality of life is dramatic 鈥?bonded pairs are more active, eat better, exhibit fewer behavioral problems, and live longer than solo rabbits. If you can only keep one rabbit, you must commit to spending 6+ hours per day interacting with your rabbit to compensate for the lack of a companion.

Can I use a cat or dog crate as a rabbit cage?

Yes, with modifications. Large wire dog crates (42-inch or 48-inch sizes) can work well as rabbit housing if modified properly. The advantages: dog crates are widely available at affordable prices ($50-100 for a 42-inch crate), they fold flat for storage, they have good ventilation (all-wire construction), and they're easy to clean. The modifications needed: (1) Cover the wire floor with a solid surface 鈥?a section of vinyl flooring, a large baking sheet, or a plastic mat that provides solid footing for rabbit feet. (2) Add a plastic or metal litter box with paper bedding and hay. (3) Provide a hide box or covered area where the rabbit can feel secure (a cardboard box with a hole cut in it, or a fabric tunnel). (4) Add a water bowl or heavy ceramic crock (not a water bottle 鈥?rabbits prefer drinking from a bowl). Dog crates with a removable plastic tray (like Midwest or AmazonBasics crates) are better than crates with solid metal pans because the plastic tray is warmer and easier to clean. If you use a dog crate as a rabbit cage, the minimum size is 42 inches long for a single rabbit 鈥?48 inches is strongly preferred for medium and large breeds.

Conclusion

Complete guide to rabbit cages and hutches

For indoor rabbits, the Tespo Pet Exercise Pen with Waterproof Floor at $90-140 is the consensus gold standard 鈥?it provides unlimited vertical space, customizable floor area (7-16+ square feet), solid vinyl flooring that's safe for rabbit feet, and the flexibility to expand as your rabbit's needs grow. It's the single best rabbit enclosure available and is recommended by rabbit rescues and veterinarians nationwide.

For owners who prefer a traditional cage with a solid, deep base that contains bedding and doesn't require assembly beyond the box, the Ferplast Bella Indoor Cage at $130-170 provides the deepest plastic base available (8 inches) with a solid floor that's safe for rabbit feet 鈥?ideal for small breeds who love to burrow in deep bedding.

For outdoor rabbit housing, the Aivituvin Outdoor Rabbit Hutch with Wheels at $260-330 is the premium choice with solid wood construction, a solid wood floor in the hutch section, locking wheels for mobility, and a predator-resistant ground-level run 鈥?the best option for long-term outdoor housing.

For budget-conscious outdoor housing, the PawHut Outdoor Rabbit Hutch with Run at $170-220 provides a two-story wooden hutch with attached run at a price that's $50-100 less than premium alternatives, though it requires more assembly effort and annual maintenance.

And for owners who need a two-level cage with a deep base and solid floors that's ready to use out of the box, the Living World Deluxe Rabbit Habitat at $140-180 offers the deepest base on a two-level cage with excellent 1-inch bar spacing and easy-access doors.

Whichever enclosure you choose, remember the golden rule of rabbit housing: the cage is the bedroom, not the whole house. Every rabbit, regardless of cage size, needs daily exercise time in a rabbit-proofed area where they can run, jump, and explore. A properly housed rabbit with adequate space, a bonded companion, and daily freedom time will live 8-12 years of healthy, happy life 鈥?and your investment in quality housing is the foundation of that long, healthy companionship.

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