Bunny Behavior: Frequently Asked Questions
- My bunny's chewing everything! How can I bunny-proof my home?
Always give your bunny something safe to chew on, like hay, and see Rabbit Care News, pg. 4, for advice. Destructive chewing may decrease as your bunny matures, after spaying or neutering, or after your bunny bonds with another bunny.
- How can I train my bunny to use a litterbox?
Warning: Cedar or pine shavings can lead to respiratory or liver damage. Clay cat litter, especially the clumping type, is hazardous if ingested.
In short, watch where your bunny goes to the bathroom and put the litterbox there. Rabbit Care News, pg. 6, names several litters that are safe for rabbits. Please visit Links for a list of vendors.
- My rabbit digs. Should I have him declawed?
No. See Why Rabbits Should Not Be Declawed, by Dr. Susan Brown, for the House Rabbit Society.
- What does it mean when my bunny growls, lunges at me, runs circles around me, etc.?
Rabbit Care News, pg. B1, interprets some of the sounds rabbits make, as well as their body language. The Language of Lagomorphs web site is also an excellent reference.
- How can I "bond" my bunny with another bunny?
Note: The least difficult couple to introduce is usually a neutered male and a spayed female.
Rabbit Care News, pg. 9, offers tips for adding another rabbit to your family. Bunny Buddies volunteers can also loan you the video "Introducing Rabbits" or advise you in person at one of our Events.
For more information, Bunny Buddies recommends the House Rabbit Handbook: How to Live with an Urban Rabbit, by Marinell Harriman, as well as other rescue groups' web sites (see Links). Our volunteers are also happy to help you in person at one of our many Events, or via phone or email as their schedules permit (see Contact Us).