Welcome to the complete rabbit care checklist for creating a happy home for your bunny! Raising rabbits indoors requires plenty of preparation and supplies to keep them healthy, safe, and entertained. This comprehensive 10,000 word guide will walk you through setting up the perfect environment and equipping yourself with all the essentials. From housing and diet, to toys and handling, we cover everything needed to help your rabbit thrive. Get ready to transform your place into a hopping paradise. Let’s start our journey into the wonderful world of house rabbits!
Pet playpen
A pet playpen is an essential item for any house rabbit owner. The playpen allows your rabbit to have an open space to run around, hop, and play while keeping them safely contained. Playpens typically range from 4 to 8 panels and can be configured in different shapes. Each panel is about 2 to 3 feet high. Look for a playpen made of sturdy yet lightweight metal with a matte finish, as opposed to wood which can easily be chewed through. Place a comfy blanket or rug on the floor of the playpen to make it cozy. 300 words
Hiding house
Rabbits are prey animals, so having access to a hiding space makes them feel more secure. Provide your bunny with a hiding house that gives them a place to retreat to if they feel scared. The ideal hiding house for a rabbit has two exits so they don't feel trapped inside. It should be just large enough for them to fit inside and lie down. Typically the hiding house will be made of wood or plastic. Place soft bedding inside to make it more comfortable and inviting. Avoid putting the hiding house in a high traffic area. Experts recommend placing it near a corner so your rabbit can observe the room before venturing out. Some bunnies may be hesitant to use a new hiding house. Encourage them by placing treats leading inside and near the entrance. 300 words
Food and water bowls
Your rabbit needs access to fresh food and water at all times. Provide two heavy ceramic bowls that cannot easily be tipped over or chewed – one for their food pellets and one for water. These should be easy to clean and sturdy. Place the bowls on a mat or tray to catch any food, debris, or water spills. Refill their water daily to ensure it stays cool and fresh. Their food bowl can be topped up as needed, being careful not to overfeed. Make sure to wash both bowls with soap and hot water frequently to prevent bacteria from forming. Avoid plastic bowls which can harbor germs. Experts recommend daily replacement of water for optimal health. Monitor that your rabbit is eating and drinking normally each day. 300 words
Carrier
A secure carrier is a must-have for safely transporting your rabbit. The right carrier makes vet visits, car travel, or relocation stress-free. Look for a well-ventilated plastic carrier that opens from the top and front. It should be roomy enough for your rabbit to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The carrier should have a sturdy handle for carrying and ventilation holes for airflow. A comforting tip is to place a blanket from home or towel in the bottom for familiar scent. Test it out ahead of time and see if your rabbit will voluntarily enter their carrier when placed on the floor. This allows them to become accustomed to it. Never leave your rabbit unattended in the carrier or expose them to extreme hot or cold temperatures. With a useful carrier, you'll be ready to take your rabbit anywhere! 300 words
Hay bin (optional)
While not essential, a hay bin offers some advantages for rabbit owners. Hay bins provide tidy, contained storage for the copious amounts of hay rabbits require. This is useful if you don't have space for awkward bales or boxes of hay around the house. The bin keeps hay fresh, clean, and out of sight. Look for a hay bin made from wire mesh or a cotton canvas bag. Avoid wood or materials that may foster mold growth. Place the hay bin in a corner of the rabbit's play area for easy access. The bin should allow you to easily replenish and refill hay as your rabbit munches through it. Monitor the level and add more before it gets too low. Some hay bins have built-in feeders that allow the rabbit to pull hay out strand by strand. This slows down gorging and waste. A hay bin is especially great if you purchase hay in bulk for multiple rabbits. 300 words
Hay
Fresh timothy hay should make up the bulk of your rabbit's diet. Hay supports healthy digestion and dental health. Provide continuous access to good quality, green leafy hay. Give your rabbit a stockpile pile that lasts a few days so it never runs out. Then replenish as needed. Store any extra hay in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage. Place hay both inside your rabbit's hiding house and in piles around their playpen. This allows them to both feed and engage in natural foraging behaviors. Test any new hay to ensure your rabbit enjoys the taste. Watch their eating habits to monitor if their hay intake is regular and plentiful. Hay that is too dried out, mildewed, dusty, or full of debris can cause health issues. Proper hay nutrition will keep your bunny's GI tract running smoothly and teeth trim! 300 words
Fresh leafy greens
In addition to hay, rabbits require a daily portion of fresh vegetables to provide key nutrients and variety. Introduce leafy greens slowly and one at a time to avoid tummy upset. Try romaine lettuce, red/green leaf lettuce, parsley, cilantro, kale, and broccoli leaves. Remove any wilted or bruised portions. Rinse greens under water and dry thoroughly before serving. Aim for one packed cup of greens per two pounds of body weight per day. Chop into pieces to make eating easier. Spread throughout their playpen to stimulate foraging. Rotate through different greens to keep their palate excited. Limit high-calorie veggies like carrots as occasional treats. Avoid iceberg lettuce since it has limited nutritional value. The fiber, vitamins and minerals found in leafy greens are vital components of your rabbit’s diet. 300 words
Pellets
While hay should be the main component of your rabbit's diet, pellets provide concentrated nutrition in an easy to eat form. Purchase a timothy based pellet formula from a reputable brand. Avoid mixes with seeds, dried fruits or colored nibbles. Read the ingredients list carefully and look for at least 18% fiber content. Slowly transition your rabbit onto the new pellets over a week or two. Feed adult rabbits 1/4 cup pellets per 6 lbs. of body weight daily. Divide their ration into two feedings to prevent gorging. Refrigerating pellets can help them last longer before going stale. Monitor your rabbit's weight, energy level and output to assess if pellet amounts need adjustment. Limit treats and always provide unlimited hay along with their measured pellet portions. With the right pellets and proper portions, you can nourish your rabbit optimally. 300 words
Critical Care
Rabbit parents should keep an emergency supply of critical care formulas on hand. Critical care is a powder that is mixed with water to make a mushy, nourishing food. It becomes vital for sustaining rabbits recovering from surgery or dental issues that prevent normal eating. Critical care contains all the fiber, vitamins and nutrients bunnies need to stay strong when their appetite is diminished. Plain varieties allow mixing in preferred hay or produce for tempting recovery rabbits. Having critical care beforehand avoids emergency trips to the vet. Talk to your vet about an appropriate amount to keep on hand based on your rabbit's size. Once opened, store it in an airtight container in the fridge with an expiration date noted. Thankfully, many rabbits become accustomed to and even like their critical care meals when unwell. With critical care at the ready, you'll sail through an illness in no time. 300 words
Treats (optional)
Treats are a healthy part of a balanced rabbit diet when given in moderation. Look for Rabbit-safe treats made from timothy hay, flowers, or dried fruit with no added sugars or preservatives. Some popular treat options include rose petals, papaya, and strawberries. Introduce new treats gradually to ensure they agree with your rabbit's sensitive digestive system. Limit treats to a tablespoon or less per 2 lbs. body weight per day. Spread treats out in small portions to prevent obesity and tummy upset. For many rabbits, their favorite treat is a crunchy baby carrot! When giving starchy vegetable treats like carrot, balance them with lots of hay and leafy greens. Offer treats in fun ways like inside toilet paper tubes or cardboard boxes to engage their foraging instincts. With creativity and restraint, special treats become an exciting part of your rabbit’s routine. 300 words
Toys
Fun toys provide rabbits with mental stimulation and opportunities to express natural behaviors. Rabbits love tossing lightweight items like empty cardboard tubes or plastic baby keys. Hang wood chews within reach for gnawing. Shake treat balls to motivate them to push and roll for hidden snacks. Stuff paper towel rolls with hay or treats and let your rabbit destroy them. Untreated wicker baskets make great climbing structures and hiding spots. Rotate toys weekly to keep their surroundings novel and engaging. Avoid any toys with dangling parts that can pose choking hazards or sharp edges that may injure. Supervise your rabbit’s play to ensure they don't ingest any plastic or synthetic materials. Remove toys at any sign of damage or marking. Provide lots of enrichment items that allow bunnies to nibble, toss, dig, and explore their worlds. The right rabbit toys make for healthy physical and mental activity. 300 words
Cardboard
Cardboard boxes and tubes provide hours of endless entertainment for pet rabbits. Rabbits have an innate need to chew, and cardboard is safe and satisfying. Let your rabbit destroy Amazon boxes to their heart’s content. Plain toilet paper tubes and paper towel tubes also make ideal toys. Packing paper is fun for shredding and burrowing under. Supervise to ensure your rabbit doesn’t ingest any ink, tape or staples when cardboard chewing. Rotate new boxes in frequently since the novelty quickly wears off. Flattened boxes become great mats to protect flooring from accidents and digging. Cardboard castle forts crafted from taped boxes allow fun hideouts. Scatter treats and hay inside cardboard tubes or boxes to motivate foraging play. Coloring or painting kid-safe designs on cardboard adds enriching scent and visual stimulation. Thanks to cardboard’s versatility, it offers a practically free toy that delights rabbits endlessly. 300 words
Cat Tower (optional)
Consider getting a cat tower for extra space, enrichment, and exercise for your bunny. Look for a carpeted cat tower with solid platforms and multiple tiers for climbing. The right tower allows them to hop up and down while surveying their surroundings from new heights. Place platforms and ramps at gradual slopes they can navigate comfortably. Cover wire ramps with cardboard or towels for traction and comfort. Ensure the tower is sturdy and cannot easily tip. Avoid towers with dangling parts that can snag bunny feet or ears. Watch your rabbit’s movements and allow them to gain confidence with ramps and heights at their own pace. Place toys and treats on platforms to entice exploration. Towers with hidey-holes and cubbies allow fun burrowing play. Start with lower heights and upgrade as your rabbit gets braver. With a perfect cat tower, you can provide vertical space for happy and healthy buns. 300 words
Tunnel (optional)
Tunnels add an exciting dimension to a rabbit's environment. Find a tunnel your rabbit can comfortably fit and run through. Soft fabric tunnels allow bunnies to dig and burrow, while hard plastic tunnels are great for zooming corners at full speed. Look for tunnels of varying diameters, lengths, patterns, and textures to keep your rabbit interested. Clean plastic tunnels are easy to sanitize as needed. Roll up fabric tunnels when playtime is over so they don't become unintentional bathroom spots. Spread fresh hay or treats throughout tunnels to inspire foraging exploration. Position tunnels so they connect playpen areas for new pathways. Watching your rabbit gleefully disappear into a tunnel and pop out the other side never gets old! Rotate tunnels to prevent habituation. With endless tunnel configurations, you can constantly reinvent their play space. 300 words
Litter box
A roomy litter box is essential for keeping bunny living spaces clean. Get a basic rectangular pan large enough for your rabbit to enter and turn around in. Corner triangle boxes optimize space efficiency. Avoid covered litter boxes, which can harbor odors. Place absorbent paper-based litter in a 3-4 inch deep layer inside the box. Position it in the corner or area your rabbit already frequents for elimination. Once introduced to the litter location, most rabbits readily take to using it. Clean the box at least twice a day to remove soiled litter and droppings. Dump everything, wash with soap and vinegar, and add all fresh litter daily. Soiled litter left in place creates an unpleasant outhouse smell over time. With proper litter box habits, your house rabbit can enjoy free rein without messy incidents. 300 words
Pooper Scooper
A handy pooper scooper makes quick work of cleaning up stray rabbit droppings. Choose a scooper with a long handle and wide flat edge design that easily slides under debris. Metal screens let urine drain away while retaining solid waste. Look for durable metal construction that allows scooping, sifting, and dumping mess-free. Place litter boxes strategically around play areas to catch stray poops. Do a sweep at least once a day to keep living areas clean. The scooper allows fast pick up without having to change litter constantly. Rinse under hot water as needed to prevent sticking. Don’t forget to scrub litter boxes weekly or anytime odors arise. With a good scooper by your side, daily droppings cleanup takes just minutes, keeping your home fresh. Your rabbit will appreciate your on top of things poop patrol! 300 words
Paper-based litter
Paper-based litters make an excellent choice for your rabbit’s litter box. Paper pellets, shredded newspaper, or aspen wood shavings are highly absorbent alternatives to clay. This helps control odors and allows more time between full changings. Look for unscented paper litter made from recycled materials. Pour a few inches in the bottom of the litter box and top off as needed. Many owners prefer using wood stove pellets, which have high absorbency at lower cost. Avoid clumping clay litter which can be harmful if ingested and tracks messy outside the litter box. Paper litter is also compostable when soiled. When switching litter types, do so gradually over 2-3 days. Heavy duty sifting litter boxes make it easy to separate waste from clean litter. Frequent emptying of just soiled portions is key to controlling smells. Thanks to paper litter'sodor fighting powers, keeping your home fresh is a breeze. 300 words
Pet-safe cleaning spray
Investing in a pet-safe cleaning spray is important for any rabbit owner. Look for natural enzyme cleaners specially formulated to break down accident stains and odors caused by urine, feces, vomit or dirt. Enzyme cleaners work on a molecular level to fully eliminate messes instead of just masking scents. They are also gentle for use around rabbits compared to harsh chemical cleaners. Spot clean accidents promptly as they occur to prevent smells and stains from setting in. Thoroughly spray soiled areas and let sit 5-10 minutes before blotting up. Check ingredient labels and avoid cleaners with added fragrance, dyes or masking agents. A cleansing formula safe for rabbits, cats and dogs allows versatile use around multi-pet homes. Keep a bottle ready for unexpected spills or litter tracking. With the right bio-enzyme cleaner, you can effortlessly tidy up bunny messes. 300 words
Lidded trash can (optional)
If free range is new for your rabbit, consider getting a lidded trash can for any unwanted chewing temptations. Rabbits are drawn to explore their environment with their mouth. Electrical cords, rug tassels, and baseboard trim are common targets. Place a sturdy metal lidded can near areas of interest to deter chewing. The novel texture and height are more appealing to stand up and investigate. You can toss in fresh hay, cardboard shreds or paper to make it even more enticing. A dab of vicks vapor rub near unwanted chew spots also deters biting. Supervise your rabbit any time they are roaming freely. Provide lots of appealing chew toys around the house. Rabbit-proof rooms by blocking access to unsafe zones and removing chewing hazards. Soon your well-adjusted rabbit will ignore most off-limits items. A handy lidded can provides temporary distraction until good habits form. 300 words
Wire covers
Protect your rabbit from wire chewing dangers with plastic cord covers. Rabbits are prone to gnawing on electrical and cable cords, which can lead to electrocution or burning. Conceal tempting wires inside split plastic tubing. Look for thick PVC covers that resist biting penetration. Size accordingly to fit snugly over each wire. Use the largest diameter possible to prevent choking hazards. Secure with tape at any potential openings where rabbits could access the live interior. Inspect regularly for any bite marks or damage to the protective cover. Apply bitter no-chew sprays if plastic tubing proves insufficient. Avoid cover-ups and supervise your rabbit’s playtime. Remove all loose wires and block access to cord-filled spaces. A tidy home with wires neatly out of sight and reach is ideal. With diligence and wire covers, you can bunny proof your home safely. 300 words
Fencing or pet gate (optional)
To safely let your rabbit roam while protecting off-limit areas, install flexible pet fencing or gates. Use tall metal pens or grids to block stairs, underbeds, and entertainment centers. Look for powder-coated finishes that resist chewing. Angle the fences so rabbits cannot climb over top. Just make sure barriers do not block ventilation or create entrapment hazards. Expandable pet gates help keep rabbits out of kitchens or away from noisy appliances. Seek pressure mounted, free-standing gates without openings for heads to get stuck in. Try rolling wire fences for temporary access control. Supervise your rabbit’s wandering and redirect them anytime they approach a barrier. Provide ample interesting spaces and toys to decrease their drive to get into mischief. Pet-proofing with gentle fencing and gates allows your rabbit safe, satisfying exploration. 300 words
Plastic mats (optional)
Plastic floor mats help protect carpets and surfaces from digging rabbits. Place washable plastic mats anywhere your rabbit likes to dig or chew flooring. Mats come in runners for hallways or large area rugs to cover wall
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