Quick Answer
For most chicken keepers, a dedicated chicken run with welded wire and hinged doors is the safer choice, while a rabbit run suits smaller pets and lighter use. If you want one pen for both, check the wire spacing and door size first.
Wire strength and predator protection
Chicken runs are built to keep out predators like foxes and dogs. A run with 3mm welded wire offers strong protection, whereas many rabbit runs use lighter mesh that may not stop a determined predator. If you keep chickens, prioritize sturdy wire over convenience.
Space and height for your animals
Chickens need room to scratch and stretch, so a run that is at least 2 metres long and about 90cm high gives them space to move. Rabbit runs are often lower and smaller, which suits rabbits but can feel cramped for chickens. Measure your available space and your flock size before choosing.
Access and cleaning
Large hinged doors make it easier to reach your birds for feeding, cleaning, and health checks. If a run lacks easy access, daily chores become a hassle. Check the door placement and size to ensure you can reach all corners without crawling inside.
Trade-Offs at a Glance
- Chicken run vs rabbit run: If you keep chickens, pick a run with welded wire and at least 90cm height. If you only keep rabbits, a lighter rabbit run may be enough, but check the wire spacing to prevent escapes. Check the wire gauge and spacing before buying.
- Dual-purpose run: A single run can house both chickens and rabbits if the wire is strong and the height suits chickens. However, rabbits may dig, so you may need to add a skirt or floor. Consider adding a wire skirt to prevent digging.
- Attached run vs stand-alone: An attached run connects directly to your coop, giving chickens protected access to the outdoors. A stand-alone run offers more placement flexibility but requires separate shelter. Decide whether you want the run attached to your coop or placed elsewhere.
Product Facts
-
Chicken / Rabbit Run: This 2 metre extension run is designed for the Betty, Gertrude and Nelly chicken houses and can also be used as a stand-alone run. It gives you flexibility to attach it to an existing coop or use it on its own, making it a versatile choice for different setups.
Chicken / Rabbit Run
-
Chicken / Rabbit Run: The run features 3mm welded wire and two large hinged doors. Strong wire helps protect chickens from predators, and the doors make it easier to access your flock for feeding and cleaning.
Which Should You Choose?
Best for
- Chicken keepers who need a predator-proof run with easy access
- Owners who want a run that can attach to a compatible chicken house
Not for
- People who only keep rabbits and prefer a lighter, smaller pen
- Those with very large flocks needing more than 2 metres of run length
