Have you recently decided to adopt a bunny? Rabbits are super adorable, and can make absolutely wonderful pets. One thing that is crucial for new bunny parents to know is that these charming furballs must chew to keep their teeth from overgrowing.
Your furry friend will nibble on anything and everything within reach! Therefore, you’ll need to take some steps to keep both your pet and your belongings safe. A local Lafayette, LA veterinarian discusses bunnies and chewing in this article.
Bunny Proofing
Floppy will need some time out of her cage every day. Before you let your pet out to play, you’ll need to carefully bunnyproof your home. Remove or secure hanging cords; electrical wires; toxic plants; chemicals; medicines; and anything that could choke or entangle your pet. You’ll also want to protect your baseboard, furniture legs, and carpets. Seal off any open spaces behind or beneath your furniture and appliances, and keep closets and cabinets shut when your pet is out and about.
Hay
Hay should make up the bulk of your rabbit’s diet. Fresh hay will keep Floppy’s digestive system in good shape, and will also help keep her teeth healthy. Make sure your pet has unlimited hay. Choose good, quality grass hay, such as Timothy hay. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Chew Toys
Bunnies need plenty of safe and fun chew toys. You can buy many suitable playthings for your furball, or you can make your own. Wood, paper, straw, and cardboard items can all make great rabbit toys. Children’s blocks, paper shapes, cardboard boxes, and wooden shapes are a few good options. You can also turn the cardboard tubes from toilet paper rolls into fun playthings for Floppy. Just be sure to avoid anything with small pieces or hanging threads that could choke your pet. Items with sharp edges, as well as those coated with stains, varnishes, or paints, are also on the no-no list.
Training
Bunnies can learn they should and shouldn’t chew on, though training a rabbit can take time and patience. Never punish Floppy for chewing, as this can backfire and leave you with an angry rabbit. Instead, if your furball chews something she shouldn’t, tell her ‘No’ in a firm voice, and then offer her a more suitable plaything.
Do you have questions about bunny care? We can help! Contact us, your local Lafayette, LA vet clinic, anytime.
