Summer Holiday Care Checklist for Small Pets
Everything your rabbit or guinea pig needs while you're away
Planning a summer holiday is exciting, but if you share your home with rabbits or guinea pigs, you'll know that preparing for their care is just as important as packing your suitcase.Small pets thrive on routine, so a little planning before you leave will help keep them happy, healthy and stress-free until you're home again.Here's our simple holiday checklist.
1. Choose a Trusted Pet Sitter
Whether it's a family member, friend, neighbour or experienced pet sitter, make sure they understand your pets' daily routine. It's a good idea to arrange a visit before you leave so they can meet your pets and learn where everything is kept. Leave written instructions rather than relying on memory.
2. Stock Up on Hay
Hay should make up around 85-90% of a rabbit or guinea pig's diet, so running out simply isn't an option. Before you travel, make sure there's plenty available for the entire time you're away, with extra just in case your return is delayed. Your sitter should know that hay should always be available, day and night.
3. Fresh Water Every Day
Water bottles and bowls should be checked and refreshed daily.During warmer weather, encourage your sitter to check water more than once a day to make sure bottles haven't become blocked and bowls stay clean.Hydration is especially important during the summer months.
4. Stick to Their Normal Feeding Routine
Sudden changes in diet can upset delicate digestive systems.
Leave clearly labelled portions if possible, along with instructions for:
- Fresh leafy greens
- Treats (and how many!)
- Feeding times
Keeping everything familiar helps your pets feel secure while you're away.
5. Leave Your Vet Details
Write down:
- Your usual veterinary practice
- Emergency out-of-hours contact number
- Your contact details while you're away
- Your contact details while you're away
- A trusted family member or friend who can make decisions if you're unreachable
Hopefully they'll never need it, but it's always best to be prepared.
6. Keep Their Routine Consistent
Rabbits and guinea pigs are creatures of habit. Try to keep feeding, cleaning and playtime at the usual times each day. Even small routines help reduce stress and make them feel settled until you return.
7. Keep Them Cool
If you're travelling during a warm spell, leave instructions for keeping your pets comfortable.
Simple ways to help include:
- Plenty of fresh shade
- Good ventilation
- Fresh water topped up regularly
- Frozen water bottles wrapped in a towel for cooling
- Ceramic tiles for lying on
Avoid placing hutches or enclosures in direct afternoon sun.
8. Prepare Everything Before You Leave
The easier you make things for your pet sitter, the smoother everything will be.
Before heading off, check you have:
- Plenty of hay
- Enough treats
- Fresh bedding
- Cleaning supplies
- Written care instructions
- Emergency contacts
- Spare water bottles or bowls
Avoid placing hutches or enclosures in direct afternoon sun.
Enjoy Your Holiday
With a little preparation, you can head away knowing your rabbits or guinea pigs are in safe hands. A familiar routine, unlimited fresh hay, clean water and a caring sitter will help keep them comfortable until you're back home with plenty of cuddles waiting. Have a wonderful holiday from all of us at Nibble & Gnaw!