Understanding Zinc Poisoning, Wire Types, and Fox‑Proofing

Why We Recommend 16g 13mm x 13mm Wire as the Only Fox‑Proof Option

Foxes are incredibly strong, determined predators. No garden is safe from foxes as they can easily get over a 6ft fence, and they are seen out during the day and the night so rabbits need to in a fox proof area day and night.

Foxes can bite through thin wire, pull at weak mesh until it bends, dig under or push through poorly secured panels, and exploit any weakness in a run’s structure. So although we focus on the strength of the wire used, it is also vital to use very strong u-shaped nails to hold it in place and not wire staples.

What “16g 13mm x 13mm” means:

• 16 gauge (16g) = approx. 1.6mm wire thickness
• 13mm x 13mm = small square openings (½ inch x ½ inch)

Why 16g is essential:

• Thin wire (19g, 20g, 21g) can be bent or broken by a fox
• Foxes can bite through lighter gauges
• 16g is strong enough to resist pulling, twisting, and chewing

Is Galvanised Wire Safe for Rabbit Runs?

Something that doesn’t get discussed as often , but it also important, is the difference between stainless steel and galvanised wire.

RWA&F recommend using stainless steel, and any RWA&F approved housing will use stainless steel and not galvanised wire. Stainless steel is safer, as there is no risk of zinc poisoning, and is more durable, but it is more expensive.

Stainless Steel vs Galvanised Wire: What’s the Difference?

What Is Zinc Poisoning?

Zinc is a metal that in high doses it becomes toxic. Galvanised steel is coated in zinc to prevent rusting, and if an animal chews or ingests enough of that coating, it can lead to zinc toxicity.

Although it is not reported in rabbits as often as it is in birds, it is still a real risk, and that is why we only recommend stainless steel.

How zinc poisoning happens:

• Rabbits chew the wire and ingest flakes of zinc
• The coating wears down over time, especially in damp UK weather
• Corroded or rough galvanised surfaces shed zinc more easily

Symptoms of zinc poisoning in rabbits:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhoea
• Pale gums
• Weakness or wobbliness
• Increased thirst or urination
• Weight loss

If you are not sure what type of wire it is, look at the colour:

Stainless Steel Mesh

• Smooth and shiny appearance
• Extremely long-lasting
• No risk of zinc poisoning

Galvanised Mesh

• Dark grey appearance
• Zinc coating to steel wire
• Risk of zinc poisoning

If you already have galvanised wire

Although we do not recommend galvanised wire, for the sake of thoroughness, there are two different types and one is less risky than the other.

1 – electro‑galvanised has a smoother, less chewable surface
2 – hot‑dipped has a rough service which is easier to chew.

If you already have galvanised wire:

Final Thoughts

• Stainless steel is the safest material for rabbit runs, especially for chewers.
• 16g 13mm × 13mm welded wire is the only fox‑proof option and should be used for all external panels, but make sure it is held in place securely.