It is advisable to have housing and equipment in place before purchasing the first rabbit It is best to start small and grow into the commercial rabbit business. Labor requirements, manure removal and expansion plans should all be considered when designing a commercial rabbitry. It is a good idea to visit other rabbit raisers and learn from their successes and mistakes. Housing Many types of housing can be used for rabbits, as long as there is sufficient protection from weather extremes. Rabbits should not be subject to cold drafts or direct sunlight.
Rabbits also require refuge from pests, predators, wildlife and other disturbances.
Wire cages placed inside a shed or pole building are the most common type of housing, although a barn, shed, lean-to, or garage is a suitable place for raising rabbits. The rabbit house should be located in a well-drained area. Rabbits do not require heated buildings. A heated building is generally for the comfort of the operator, though heat will keep automatic water lines from freezing during the winter. With the possible exception of the alleyway between rows of cages, a solid concrete floor is not recommended for the rabbitry.