Under Northern Great Plains winter conditions a totally enclosed, insulated and ventilated building is highly desirable. A good manure handling system is essential. During the summer a sun shade is needed to help keep the rabbits cool. Additional cooling may be needed to maintain high levels of fertility in breeding herds. Protection must be provided to keep predators from the rabbits.
Mature rabbits can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Many types of buildings can provide the environment needed for rabbit production. An easily cleanable floor is needed, especially in the work alleys. If suspended cages are used, the building must be strong enough to hold the weight of the cages and the rabbits. Clear span trusses should be able to carry 10 pounds per square foot of live load in addition to the wind and snow loads in the area. For most of North Dakota a 25 pound per square foot snow load is adequate except in sheltered areas where the wind cannot blow the snow off of the roof.