Bunnies are most comfortable between 60 and 70 degrees F (16 to 21 C). Once it gets to 80 F (26 C), bunny is at risk of heat stroke. It’s important to keep bunny hydrated. Just like unlimited hay, we need unlimited water. Here are some ways to keep bunny cool when during the warmer summer months:
1. Provide shade. This can be done with a cardboard box or a sheet.
2. Put a few ceramic or porcelain tiles down so that bunny has to option to lie on them.
3. Brush bunny regularly. Removing the excess fur will help bunny stay cooler.
4. Keep a fan on in bunny’s space without putting the fan directly on bunny. You can even make an air-conditioner with a few materials from the hardware store! Just be sure to protect the cords or keep them out of bunny’s reach. We did this last summer and it worked really well in mom’s office.
5. Fill empty soda bottles with water and freeze them. Once frozen, put each bottle inside a sock to create a freezer pack. Put the freezer packs in bunny’s space. Bunny can stay cool by lying next to the homemade freezer packs.
6. Bunnies use their ears to regulate their temperature. Using a cool, wet cloth on bunny’s ears can help cool her down.
The House Rabbit Society has an in-depth article on this topic, which covers what to do if bunny experiences heat stroke.