At Alice in Bunderland®, we believe that comfort and safety go paw-in-paw. That’s why we’re here with some practical, pet-tested tips to help your furry family members stay cool, hydrated, and happy all summer long. Whether you share your home with a bunny, piggie, chinnie or other small pet, there are safe and simple ways to keep them chill when the weather’s anything but.
If possible, keep their habitat in a well-ventilated, air-conditioned space, and make sure they always have access to fresh, cool water. For pets that tolerate veggies well, small servings of their favorite fresh foods can support hydration. If your pet typically drinks from a bottle, consider also offering a sturdy crock, like a glass or ceramic bowl that’s hard to tip. This gives them a more natural drinking option and encourages hydration.
Side note: Is there anything more adorable than the sound of a bunny drinking water from a bowl? 🎥 Enjoy this adorable video of Stuey in action as he enjoys a cool drink—adorable slurping sounds included!
If you don’t have air conditioning or can’t keep their space between 68–75°F, try relocating them to the coolest part of the room or another part of your home. Floors—especially smooth ones like vinyl or hardwood—often stay a few degrees cooler than raised surfaces and can offer relief. Fans are okay to use, but they should never be pointed directly at your pet—this can cause a temperature shock and may stress them out.
Some tricks for helping rabbits beat the heat include frozen water bottles wrapped in a thin towel that they can lie against or chilled marble tiles or a slightly dampened cloth pad or mat that they can nap on. Rabbits regulate heat through their ears, so you can lightly moisten the back of their ears with a wet rag or a spritz of cool – not ice-cold – water to help them cool down quickly.
Chinchillas, in particular, are extremely heat-sensitive and do best in environments between 60–70°F. For them, air conditioning isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. For all small pets, avoid fleece bedding and plastic hideouts during peak heat, and skip outdoor playtime when the sun is strong or temperatures are high.
If you’re unsure what’s safe or want to refresh your cooling setup, stop by Alice in Bunderland®! We carry adorable veggie bowls, breathable hideaways, and other summer-ready supplies—and we’re always happy to help you make informed, animal-welfare-approved choices to keep your littles safe and comfy.