How to Deodorize a Bunny Hutch

A rabbit hutch can become quite smelly, especially if the rabbits aren̵7;t using a litter tray. Modern plastic hutches don̵7;t take long to clean and deodorize, making the hutch more pleasant both for you and for the rabbits. Rabbits are naturally clean animals and don̵7;t like odorous housing any more than you do. After you have cleaned the hutch, teach your rabbits to use a litter tray to avoid the problem in the future. If the rabbits belong to a child, ensure they care for their pet properly, which includes cleaning the hutch every week.

Things You'll Need

  • Exercise pen
  • Refuse sack
  • Butter knife
  • Disinfectant
  • Bucket
  • Cleaning cloths
  • Hose
  • Paper towels
  • Litter trays
  • Newspapers
  • Dishwashing liquid
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the rabbits from the hutch and place them in an exercise pen or a rabbit-proofed room.

    • 2

      Place the bedding and any wooden or cardboard toys in a refuse sack. Retain a little soiled bedding to aid toilet training later.

    • 3

      Scrape away any compacted feces with a knife.

    • 4

      Wipe the entire hutch down with a mild disinfectant, such as a couple cups of household bleach in a bucket of hot water.

    • 5

      Rinse the hutch thoroughly. It is easiest to do this outside with a hose.

    • 6

      Dry the hutch with paper towels. If the hutch is wooden, leave it outside in the sun for a few hours so it dries properly.

    • 7

      Add a thick layer of bedding to the hutch and replace the rabbits.

    • 8

      Teach your rabbits to use a litter tray. You need at least one tray for each rabbit. Basic cat litter trays are the right size for all but the biggest rabbits. Place the trays where the rabbits urinate most frequently, line them with newspapers and place some soiled bedding and droppings on top. Wipe or sweep up any other accidents immediately.

    • 9

      Replace the newspapers in the litter trays every day to keep odors under control. Also, remove any bedding that gets wet if water spills.

    • 10

      Clean the hutch at least once a week. You don̵7;t need to use disinfectant every time; dishwashing liquid or a vinegar spray is milder and effective.