That time of year again

It's that time of year again when we need to start thinking about our guinea pigs and rabbits who live outside. Depending on what your furries live in and where they are sited, consideration for their comfort and protection is paramount as we near the end of October.

At this time of year we have four big festive occasions; Halloween closely followed by Bonfire Night then we have Christmas and New Year collectively, and until January it seems all we hear is fireworks. Guinea pigs and rabbits are prey animals which means they have sensitive hearing that's supposed to protect them from danger. Whenever there is a bang and flash of light, your furry friends will be feeling very nervous and quite frightened.

It is a good idea to put outdoor hutches into unused sheds, garages and outhouses during the autumn and winter months because it will make any loud sounds from fireworks quieter. If this is not possible, move the hutch as far away from where fireworks will be let off and shelter the hutch in a less prominent position of the garden. Covering open wired sections with thick blankets during the evenings will not only muffle sounds and dampen down bright lights but will help keep the interior cage cosy!

Keeping cages draught proof, whether they are kept outside or in, is very important. When winter arrives draughts can be very cold and with viruses being more prolific the prevention of infections and pneumonia becomes a real concern. Keeping bedding dry and plentiful will help maintain warmth inside bedroom quarters and draughts can be eradicated by the use of specially made hutch covers or clever use of blankets. A cosy furry is a happy furry and they'll appreciate your attentiveness!

Becky