Bringing Bunny Home

Congratulations on adopting your rabbits! Here is some information for you.

When you first bring your rabbits home, place them in their new living area (cage, condo, xpen or room) and let them get used to it for an hour or two. After this initial period, the key word is balance. You want to spend time with your rabbits and let them get to know you. However, you also don't want to smother them. Remember that they don't know you, they don't understand what just happened, and they need time to warm up to you. Spend plenty of time just talking to your rabbits. Be near them, but don't try to constantly pick them up. Sit on the floor and let them come to you. Reward them with treats (such as raisins) so they associate you with good things.

Let your rabbits have some play time. Limit the space to just one room to start. You don't want to give your rabbits too much freedom too fast. Let them learn the boundaries before giving more space.

Some rabbits may not be good with their litterbox the first 2-4 days they are in a new home. It is a new environment and not properly "scented". Within a few days this should return to normal.

Make sure your rabbit is eating and pooping within 6 hours. If he isn't, contact your foster home immediately.

Quick Checklist of supplies:

  • Large cage, condo
  • Water bottle
  • Food bowl
  • Hay
  • Litter
  • Litter boxes
  • Fresh greens
  • Pellets
  • Treats
  • Toys
  • Pet carrier

Resources

Any questions, give us a call at 781-431-1211 or email info@rabbitnetwork.org. Our web site is www.RabbitNetwork.org. We have a listing of over 50 articles on our web site on various subject such as rabbit housing, litter box training and more! http://www.rabbitnetwork.org/articles.shtml

Recommended Books

  • Rabbits for Dummies Good overall book for general behavioral information.
  • Rabbit Health in the 21st Century Great book explaining rabbit health issues.
  • The House Rabbit Handbook Good book on general rabbit care.
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