The Warren Rabbit House and Run

Tanalith E is a water-based wood preservative containing copper and organic biocides (primarily triazoles like tebuconazole). These chemicals are pressure-treated deep into the wood fibres to protect against fungal decay (rot) and insect attack.

• No Arsenic/Chromium: The significant change in modern wood preservatives is the removal of highly toxic compounds like arsenic and chromium, which were a major concern in older pressure-treated timber.
• Bonding with Wood: The active ingredients in Tanalith E are designed to bond with the wood structure after treatment, making them less likely to leach out or be easily ingested.
• Widespread Use in Pet Housing: Many reputable manufacturers of rabbit hutches, runs, and other outdoor pet structures specifically state that they use Tanalith E or similar modern pressure treatments, highlighting its safety for animals.
• Manufacturer Claims: Manufacturers often state that Tanalith E treated timber is safe for use around children and animals.
• Experience: Some long-standing pet accommodation manufacturers report having never heard of a rabbit becoming ill from pressure-treated wood.

1. Chewing: While Tanalith E is considered safe, rabbits are notorious chewers. No wood treatment is designed to be eaten. If a rabbit extensively chews on treated wood, there’s always a theoretical risk of ingesting some of the chemicals.

• Recommendation: Provide your rabbits with plenty of safe, untreated wood to chew on (e.g., untreated apple branches, willow, or specific rabbit chew toys) to redirect their chewing away from their hutch or run structure. Boredom is a major driver of destructive chewing, so ensure they have ample space, enrichment, and ideally a companion.

1. “Cured” or “Fixed” Timber: Freshly treated timber contains more mobile chemicals. It’s best to allow newly treated wood to “cure” or “fix” completely before allowing rabbits access. This usually means allowing it to dry thoroughly for a few days to weeks (depending on the timber and weather) after treatment, so the chemicals are fully bonded with the wood. However, timber purchased from suppliers that are already pressure treated should already be sufficiently dry and fixed.
2. Sawdust and Off-cuts: While the treated timber itself is generally considered safe, sawdust and off-cuts from cutting or sanding Tanalith E treated wood should not be used for animal litter or bedding. These contain fine particles that could be inhaled or ingested in higher concentrations.
3. No Guarantee of “Edible”: “Pet-safe” often means “does not give off toxic fumes” or “is safe for incidental contact.” It doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe for consumption in large quantities.
4. Alternative Coatings: Some people prefer to use additional “pet-safe” wood stains or sealants over treated timber (once the Tanalith E has fully cured) to further protect the wood and potentially provide an extra barrier against chewing, though this isn’t strictly necessary for the preservative’s function.