Rabbit starter kit: the complete list and the real budget
A complete rabbit starter kit represents a realistic budget of 150 to 400 €: modular pen, litter tray, plant-based litter, hay rack and hay, bowls, travel carrier, hideouts, toys and cable protectors. Steer clear of the ready-made 60 € rabbit kits in pet shops: the tiny cage and plastic accessories they contain end up in the bin within three months. Better to buy each item properly, once.
What goes into the essential starter kit?
- Modular pen, 8 panels, at least 70 cm high: 30 to 60 € (see our indoor modular pens);
- Litter tray, corner or rectangular: 8 to 25 €;
- Hemp or flax litter, 100 L bag: 8 to 16 €;
- Quality hay, 5 kg: 15 to 30 €, plus a rack or hay box: 8 to 20 €;
- Age-appropriate pellets, 1.5 kg: 6 to 12 €;
- Heavy ceramic bowl and a back-up water point: 10 to 20 €;
- Rigid travel carrier: 20 to 40 €;
- Hideouts, tunnel, chew toys: 20 to 40 €;
- Protection: cable sleeves, non-slip rugs: 15 to 40 €.
What monthly budget comes next?
Allow 40 to 70 € a month: hay (15 to 25 €), fresh greens (20 to 40 € — our shopping list keeps this in check), pellets (5 to 10 €), litter (8 to 15 €). Add the health line: neutering (80 to 250 € depending on sex and clinic), annual myxomatosis-RHD vaccinations (50 to 80 €) and a reserve for exotics-vet emergencies — insurance or savings of 300 to 500 € is prudent.
Which buying mistakes should be avoided from the start?
The 100 cm rabbit cage (too small — see our guide on enclosure size), a bottle as the only water source, colourful seed mixes, scented or mineral litters, and the honey treats offered as a free gift at the till. Every euro saved on those purchases funds better hay or an extra pen panel.
In what order should everything be set up before arrival?
Assemble the pen in a quiet room; lay out rugs, a filled tray, hay and water, two hideouts and a few toys; secure cables and skirting boards. Everything must be ready before the rabbit arrives: in the first days it needs calm, not building work. Find all our comparisons in the accessories section.
Frequently asked questions
Can you start with less than 150 €?
Yes, by sourcing a second-hand pen and carrier (30 to 50% savings) and making hideouts and toys from cardboard. Never skimp on the hay or the size of the space.
Should everything be bought before adopting?
Yes, the complete habitat must be up and running on day one. Ask the breeder or rescue which pellet brand they use so you can manage the transition.
Does a second rabbit double the budget?
No: the habitat is shared; expect about 50 to 60% more in running costs, but one neutering and one set of vaccinations per animal.
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Rabbits universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.