Rabbit Owner’s Information Guide
Rabbit Owner’s Guide: Things You May Not Know About Your Rabbit
When we first purchased our bunny, we thought it would be simple to look after him. There is so many things to know…
When you first bring your bunny home, make sure that you place their cage away from other animals, high traffic areas, and drafts. Keep your bunny quiet by placing a blanket over the back of their cage, but at the same time making sure that they are not over heated. Make sure that they have their water, food and a play toy. One example of a play toy would be a simple toilet paper role. They love those!
The first few days only you should pick them up so they will learn to trust you. Research has stated that once a day for handling is enough. In the next week, you can start litter training your bunny by placing a litter pan in their cage with litter made especially for bunnies. Do not buy dusty litter because the dust and fumes will affect your bunny’s lungs. If you do not have a litter pan, simply putting shavings on the bottom of the cage is fine. The bunny will keep an area to himself or herself just for doing their business.
Purchase a large water bottle at your favorite Pet Store and keep the container full. Also, while you are at your Pet Store, pick up a salt tablet, as they need the salt to survive. To clean bunnies cage; the best way to get your bunny out of the cage is by putting his or her food outside of the cage and the bunny will come out on his or her own.
If you happen to hear your bunny grunt at you, leave him or her alone; they are letting you know that they feel nervous.
Bunnies like light strokes on their nose and the side of their cheek. If you hear grinding teeth noise, your bunny is purring! You may also notice your pet moving their head to their side; they are letting you know what particular side to touch. As time goes by, you will get to know your bunny well and feel more comfortable knowing what to do.
If you did not know, bunnies sleep with their eyes open or slightly closed in daylight hours. Their ears will slant back if they are content while lying down. When bunnies get nervous, they will lower their body and have their ears facing the noise while getting ready to run. They have very keen hearing, so do not be surprised if they jar away from you. They do not like quick movements or loud noises!
Bunnies are very social, intelligent animals and do learn a lot quicker than a cat and without a cat’s usual temperamental attitude. They can learn to do tricks such as, standing on their feet for a treat, jumping through hoops, and eating when you ask them to. Depending on the breed of rabbit, some bunnies like to respond to one owner and other breeds will respond with all members of the family.
There is so much more to learn about your bunny, and the best things to do is, research online and in the meantime, have fun with your new little furry friend.