How to stop rabbit antics at home

Rabbits are extremely curious animals, and their tendency to gnaw is a necessary part of their dental care. However, this passion often turns into chewing on various wires, furniture, or wallpaper, so it is important to take effective training measures in a timely manner.

Fighting chewing on things

Here are 5 steps to help you teach your rabbit not to destroy everything around it.

1. Provide your rabbit with appropriate toys.

To prevent furniture and wires from getting damaged in your home, it is important to provide your small pet with safe gnawing toys: cardboard boxes, hay balls, sticks, special gnawing chalk . The more additional gnawing alternatives, the less likely your rabbit will choose your furniture.

2. Hide temptations in the house.

In many cases, various wires and wallpaper can be the first targets of a rodent. To protect things in the home, we suggest using wire protectors, furniture covers or even baby gates to limit access to "forbidden" areas. If you are particularly interested in the legs of furniture in the home, we recommend applying a bitter-tasting spray (specifically for animals, without any chemicals).

3. Call attention to inappropriate behavior.

If your rabbit starts to chew on something inappropriate, try gently patting it with your hands to get its attention. Without waiting, offer a safe object to chew on.

4. Ensure sufficient physical and mental activity.

One of the reasons for chewing can be boredom. It is not only important to provide your rabbit with scratching toys and let them run around the house or in the meadow, but it is also equally important to keep them busy, give them time, show them attention, and play together.

5. Monitor the rabbit's well-being.

Sometimes increased chewing can be a sign that your rabbit is stressed or in pain (e.g., dental problems). If your rabbit was previously not very interested in furniture and then suddenly starts chewing and behaving differently, it's a good idea to consult your veterinarian, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms.

Gnawing is necessary for a rabbit, but with proper upbringing and directing of energy, it is possible to protect items in the home from harm.

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