Technically, yes. My meat rabbits could run around in some sort of outdoor setup, but I choose not to run my rabbitry that way. Certainly, many meat rabbit growers choose to grow on the ground and in runs, tractors, and fenced colony setups.
Before I started raising meat rabbits, I considered all the options. I did a lot of reading and research. I noted many of the issues that crop up on the rabbit groups and forums and noted issues that are common among colony growers and people raising rabbits on the ground.
After weighing it all, I decided that the best setup for me, for my rabbits, and given this area and the bear and predator pressure, is to have my rabbits in my barn. In warmer weather, the windows and doors are open. There is good airflow all throughout the year. Sun comes in the windows, but the rabbits are also protected from strong sun and heat in the summer (a very important factor).
Animals outside and on the ground are subject to predation, illness, and disease. I know coccidiosis to be a problem in this area if we have a wet year, which we frequently do. There is a lot that I can protect my rabbits from in my chosen setup.
I have experienced only a very few minor health issues (literally, just nest box eye and ear mites, which anyone can get, no matter your design and setup). When we butcher, the livers and organs are clean and clear, unlike the cystic looking livers of meat rabbits that frequent group pages from animals riddled with coccidiosis.
RHVD2 is another consideration. This is a virus that is spread by wild rabbits, and around here, there is an abundance of those. The virus has not reached my area as of yet, but it’s enough of a rising concern that I take this into consideration, too.
There are several options and methods for raising meat rabbits inside or out. Truly, I am not here to judge but just to say that I have specific, well thought out and well-planned reasons for raising my rabbits the way I do.
And if I'm being totally honest, sure, I’d like to let them roam free on grassy ground in sunlight. But the risk is really higher for them, all things considered, and I am here for humane production. My barn provides excellent protection from illness, disease, predators, and more.
This is a topic which I have addressed in depth. You can read more about it here and watch the video linked below to see how I arrived at my optimal setup.
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