Keeping your bunny active and happy is one of the most important aspects of bunny ownership. Far too often, people pick bunnies as pets for the first time assuming they're like gerbils, hamsters, or guinea pigs, and thus can spend most of their time in their cage. Not so! Actually, gerbils, hamsters, and guinea pigs need lots of experience as well, but keeping your bunny active is even more important. You might have a mini lop, an angora, a Jersey wooly, a lionhead, or a little Rex, but no matter how large or small, your bunny needs exercise. Remember, you've got a domesticated breed, but bunnies are still active little creatures. If they don't get enough exercise, it can lead to serious health problems, such as depression, atrophied muscles, and digestion issues.
1 Get a Large Cage
Your bunny cannot survive in a small cage. Now, when you first get a bunny, if she's small, then you may begin with a starter cage – no problem. As your bunny grows and becomes more comfortable in your house, however, a larger cage is essential for keeping your bunny active. She needs room to move around. Plus, bunnies are both smart and fastidious. Ideally you need a cage that has separate spaces for the litter box, the food bowl, the water bottle, the grass container, and any toys or accessories. You don't necessarily have to get a two story hutch, but it all depends on the size of your rabbit – and the number of bunnies you have, of course.
Frequently asked questions
2 Buy a Playpen
Cages are expensive, however, and even still, your bunny needs room to move. Investing in a playpen is an excellent way to get your bunny out of his cage while keeping him close. They come in various sizes, they're easy to put up and take down, and you can even transport them without a problem. Our little London adores his, plus he's still able to be an active part of the family and drive the doxie crazy, which is one of his primary enjoyments.
3 Go for Walks
Have you ever taken your bunny for a walk? Try it, she'll love it! There are loads of rabbit leashes and halters, so you can feel safe that she won't get away. Just make sure to map your walking route, so you'll know beforehand if you'll need to scoop her up for a bit when you pass by the house with the excitable dog. Pay attention to the temperatures outside, too; you don't want her to get too hot or too cold.
4 Let Bunny Roam the House
A lot of people just let their bunnies run wild and free in the house – and this is adorable. It really helps your bunny become part of the family, and because bunnies are very intelligent, soon you'll find that yours binkies all the way from the bedroom to the living room when you call his name. He will also do this when he hears you eating anything. Just make sure everything is safely bunny-proofed!
5 Create a Bunny-Safe Room
Of course, some people aren't comfortable with this. You might be worried that your bunny will get stuck under the couch, or that she'll start chewing on wires. Bunny-proofing helps, but isn't always practical. In that case, try to create a bunny-safe room. This could be the bathroom, the kitchen, the spare room, or the family room. Just make sure there's enough space for your little guy to get all his binkies out.
6 Take Bunny outside
This is different from a walk, because you can just take your bunny out in the yard. You'll either want to have him in his halter with his leash, or you can take his playpen out and arrange it in the grass. He'll love being outside! Doing this in spring and summer is especially great, because he'll gorge himself on grass and clover. To that end, however, only do this if you're absolutely certain that there are no pesticides or chemicals on your lawn at all.
7 Have Bunny Play Dates
Do you know other bunny owners? Then arrange a bunny play date! Do it outside, go for walks, or let them play in designated bunny areas. There are several caveats here, though: make sure the bunnies get along first; do not ever do this with two opposite-sex bunnies who are not spayed or neutered, unless you want lots of bunny babies; and make sure there are litter boxes, pee pads, or other bathroom-safety-measures everywhere, if you're inside.
Fortunately, as you can see, keeping your bunny active isn't hard at all! You can do any combination of these things and your bunny will be healthy, happy, and active. Having a bunny is fantastic; they're smart, incredibly social, and so animated. By letting your bunny exercise and express himself, you'll go a long way toward ensuring he has a long, happy life. Do you have bunnies? How do you keep them active?
