Calvin’s Care Corner
Holiday Safety
House rabbits are a curious bunch, and the holidays can present them with a lot of new temptations, challenges, and hazards. With a little forethought and preparation, the holidays can be safe and fun for everybun.
Be they real or artificial, holiday decorations can pose problems or temptations for your house rabbit. Where ever you place them, consider whether or not your rabbit can get to them. If a decoration dries or sheds, make sure to pick up any pieces so that the rabbit does not ingest them. Candles should never be left burning unattended, especially with rabbits that like to jump up on things.
Christmas trees present a host of temptations and hazards. The tree itself has needles that the rabbit should not eat. Lights and wires present a burn or shock hazard and should be located where the rabbit can not access them, or covered to protect them. Ornaments, tinsel, and strings of popcorn or cranberries may present an irresistible temptation to a curious rabbit, and can cause digestive and intestinal problems. Protect the tree by blocking your rabbit’s access to it. A simple barrier can be made of storage cubes held together with tie wraps, and can be easily folded up and stored away when not needed.
Plants and decorative items made from plant material associated with the holidays should all be kept away from your house rabbit. Poinsettias, wreaths, potpourri, holly, mistletoe, and berries should not be eaten by your house rabbit and must be kept out of reach.
Gift wrapped packages may look like giant chew toys for your house rabbit. The inks and dyes in paper and ribbons can be dangerous, as can the ribbons, bows, and elastic cords. Keep them out of reach, or surround them with a barrier.
Holiday parties and visiting guests can create unintended hazards. Even though your friends and family really love your house rabbits, they may not know what behaviors or treats might be dangerous. Party guests or overnight visitors might forget that your rabbits are free range, and may not notice them underfoot. The extra noise associated with a party may frighten your rabbit. Party goers who are drinking alcohol may forget the rules and share inappropriate treats with your rabbit or try to pick them up. For these reasons, it is probably safer to close them in their room or pen when larger numbers of guests are in your home.
The holidays bring with them many special treats, but these should not be shared with your rabbit. Rabbits should not have candies, cookies or breads, as much as they might want them. Maintain your rabbit’s normal food schedule and portions during the holiday season, you don’t need everyone in the house on a post holiday diet!
All buns are different, and all homes and holiday traditions are different. Spend some time making your holiday home safe for your rabbit so that everyone has fun and safe holiday.