Connecting with Your New Rabbit

Are you thinking about adopting a bunny soon? Floppy is a cute and engaging little friend. Rabbits have incredibly appealing and engaging personalities. However, these adorable little fur balls are somewhat bashful. This is understandable: bunnies, being prey animals in the wild, must continuously be alert and prepared to flee raptors, wolves, coyotes, wild dogs, and other predators. A local Louisville, KY veterinarian offers some advice on winning Floppy’s heart below.

Start On The Right Foot (Paw)

Establishing trust begins on the first day. Avoid reaching into Floppy’s cage to pull her out. Simply open the door and let her come out when she is ready.

Eventually, your pet will get curious about her new surroundings … and you. When she approaches, offer your hand and let her sniff it. It won’t hurt to offer a treat. (More about that later.)

Bunnyproofing is vital. This entails either removing or securing any goods you want to keep out of reach of your furry friend. Seal any open spaces beneath and behind furniture and beds. Make sure that baseboards, furniture legs, and any wires or cords are properly covered. small or sharp objects, personal things, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals are all more examples of things that are potentially hazardous. Consult your Louisville, KY veterinarian for specific advice on bunnyproofing.

Talk to Your Rabbit

Talking to pets is a great approach to get them used to you. Speak in a joyful and soothing tone of voice. Pay close attention to Floppy’s adorable ears and her reactions.

Win Your Bunny’s Adoration with Treats

Snacks are often the route to a pet’s heart. Just pick safe treats. There are numerous myths and misunderstandings here. For example, while carrots are a favorite of the cartoon character Bugs Bunny, they may not be the best option for your pet.

Bunnies are well-known for their preference for sugary foods. Although we normally advise restraint when it comes to Floppy’s sweet cravings, you could try providing her little portions of apple, banana, or strawberry. However, make sure to stick with safe foods. Options include apples, apricots, asparagus, bananas, bean sprouts, beet greens, bell peppers, blackberries, blueberries, Brussels sprouts, cantaloupe, carrots, celery, cherries, cranberries, cucumbers, eggplant, grapes, green beans, honeydew, kiwi, mango, oranges, papaya, peaches, pears, pineapple, plums, pumpkin, raspberries, squash, strawberries, turnips, watermelon, and zucchini.

It is equally important to understand what is not safe. Some foods on the no-no list include almonds, artichokes, avocados, beans, coffee, corn, currants, dates, edamame, figs, garlic, green onions, kelp, leeks, lentils, mushrooms, nuts, olives, onions, peanuts, popcorn, potatoes, quinoa, rhubarb, rice, seeds, beet, sweet potatoes, walnuts, and any items containing xylitol, alcohol, or high levels of salt, fat, or sugar. Consult your veterinarian for further information on this topic.

Get Down To Floppy’s Level

When you think about it, we appear as towering giants from Floppy’s perspective. Lowering oneself to the ground level can help you appear less frightening.

Provide Fun Toys

Rabbits are quite playful. They also need to chew, so they’ll need plenty of safe and acceptable chew toys. You can get some excellent ones in stores, but you can also make your own at home. Only use safe materials, though. Items made of paper, cardboard, wood, or wicker are often suitable. Avoid objects with sharp edges, plastic components, or threads, and especially anything made of potentially poisonous ingredients. Ask your Louisville, KY veterinarian for more information.

Learn Rabbit Body Language

Rabbits communicate using nonverbal clues, which require a sharp observer to detect properly. If your pet is unwell, she may whine, grunt, grind her teeth, or retreat and withdraw. A pleased bunny may push you with its head, give you a nice lick, or curl up next to you.

Avoid Scaring Your Pet

Do not make loud noises or move hastily. Rabbits are quickly startled by abrupt movements. Floppy tends to carry grudges, so if you startle her, she will remember it.

Do not pick up Floppy if she does not want to be held, unless you need to relocate her or place her in her carrier. The Abominable Snow Man’s attempts to befriend Bugs Bunny by smooshing him with cuddles failed, and the same will be true for you! Your cat may be the most lovely thing in the world—and she probably is—but dominating her will only breed dread.

Offer Great Care

Animals build ties with individuals who care for them and show them warmth and compassion. Great TLC will go a long way here. Consult your veterinarian for important tips on rabbit care. This includes things like cage setup, common ailments, dietary recommendations, and toys. We are always delighted to help!

Let Love Grow

Your furry buddy may require some time to adjust to your presence. Love necessitates patience, trust, and time. That is completely fine!

Schedule an Appointment at Our Louisville, KY Veterinary Clinic

Are you looking for information on rabbit care? Have you recently adopted a pet rabbit? We invite you to contact us, your Louisville, KY animal clinic, whenever you need help! We are committed to providing great treatment.