Are you considering adopting a bunny soon? Floppy is an adorable and playful little pet. Rabbits have a charming personality. These adorable little balls of fur are rather shy, however. This is understandable: bunnies are prey animals in the wild and must constantly be vigilant and ready to escape from raptors, wolves, coyotes, wild dogs, and other predators. What are some ways to befriend a bunny? A local Burleson, TX veterinarian shares some advice on this topic below.

Begin on the Right Foot

Establishing trust begins from the very first day, and it truly hinges on that initial interaction. Please refrain from reaching into Floppy’s cage to pull her out. Simply open the door and allow her to come out when she feels prepared. It might take some time, so you might consider getting comfortable on the floor with a book or your phone.

Eventually, your furry friend will emerge to explore her new environment … and you. When she approaches, extend your hand and allow her to sniff it. Providing a treat won’t cause any harm, either. More on that later.

When it comes to getting started, one crucial aspect to consider is effective bunnyproofing. This involves removing or securing anything you prefer your furry friend not to chew on. It’s important to seal off any empty spaces beneath and behind furniture and mattresses. Additionally, make sure to protect items such as baseboards, furniture legs, and any wires or cords. You will need to be attentive as your pet becomes familiar with her new surroundings.

Consult your Burleson, TX veterinarian for customized advice on bunnyproofing.

Talk To Floppy

Just talking to pets is a great way to help them get used to you. Use a cheerful and soothing tone of voice. It’s also beneficial to familiarize them with their name. Watch Floppy’s charming ears!

Offer Treats

Snacks are undoubtedly the key to winning a pet’s affection. Rabbits are just like our other patients in this regard. It is essential to ensure that you choose safe treats. Many misconceptions exist in that area. For example, while carrots are a favorite of the cartoon character Bugs Bunny, they may not be the ideal choice for your pet.

Bunnies are well-known for their fondness for sweet treats. Although we typically recommend moderation when it comes to Floppy’s sweet tooth, you might consider offering her small pieces of apple, banana, or strawberry. Just stick with foods that you know are safe. Options include apples, apricots, asparagus, bananas, bean sprouts, beet greens, bell peppers, blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, carrots, celery, cherries, cranberries, cucumbers, grapes, green beans, honeydew, kiwi, mango, oranges, papaya, peaches, pears, pineapple, plums, pumpkin, raspberries, squash, and strawberries.

Go Eye To Eye

If you think about it, we’re essentially towering giants from Floppy’s perspective. Lowering yourself to ground level can make you appear less intimidating. Consider this: when you stand up, all your bunny can see are your feet and legs. That can be quite frightening!

Don’t Frighten Your Pet

Please refrain from making loud noises or sudden movements. Rabbits tend to be shy and timid, making them easily startled. If you startle Floppy, she will remember it. Bunnies are quite stubborn, and tend to hold grudges.

Give Your Pet Time To Adjust

Love develops over time, and it can only flourish once trust has been built. It’s best not to impose attention on Floppy. Do not pursue her, trap her, or engage in any actions that might scare her.

Avoid Picking Up Your Bunny Unless Necessary

Trying to force affection on Bugs Bunny didn’t work for the Abominable Snow Man, and it won’t help you either! Your pet might seem like the cutest creature in the world—and she very well could be—but if you overpower her, you’ll only end up scaring her. Only pick Floppy up if she wants to be held, unless you need to move her or put her in her carrier. In reality, a lot of rabbits prefer not to be held at all. Your furry friend will likely be much happier simply sitting beside you. 

Offer Your Bunny Lots Of Toys

Rabbits exhibit a great deal of playfulness. We likely don’t need to mention just how charming they can be when they’re in a playful mood. They also have open-rooted teeth, indicating that they require a considerable amount of chewing. Combine these two elements, and you have a charming pet that requires a variety of toys, particularly an abundance of safe and appropriate chew toys. While you can definitely discover excellent options in stores, you also have the option to create them yourself at home.

However, there are a few caveats to consider. Ensure that you use only safe materials. Items made of paper, cardboard, wood, and wicker are generally acceptable. 

Just avoid giving your pet items that have sharp edges, plastic components, or strings, and steer clear of anything made from potentially toxic materials. Consult your veterinarian for additional information.

Learn Bunny Body Language

If you’re a first-time bunny owner, it would be beneficial to familiarize yourself with bunny body language. Rabbits communicate in subtle ways, so learning to understand them often requires a keen observation. For example, if your pet is unwell, she might whimper, grunt, grind her teeth, or retreat and withdraw. A cheerful bunny may nudge you with its head, give you a gentle lick, or simply flop down next to you.

There are several individual traits as well. Some rabbits snort when they are irritated, while others do so when they are excited. One bunny might thump her paw in annoyance if you take her favorite toy, while another might thump to request treats or playtime. Spend some time getting to know Floppy.

Provide Great TLC

What truly matters most really is just ensuring the well-being of your pet. Animals form bonds with those who nurture them and care for them!

Consult your veterinarian for advice on essential rabbit care. This includes things like cage setup, common illnesses, dietary recommendations, and additional care tips. We are always happy to help!

Pay Attention To Floppy

Spend time with your bunny daily. Prepare to be charmed, as your adorable pet is likely to capture your heart completely. Rabbits excel at that!

Don’t Rush Things

Dogs and cats often develop immediate attachments, whereas rabbits tend to take longer to bond. Your furry friend might need some time to adjust to your presence. Love takes time!

Schedule an Appointment At Our Burleson, TX Animal Clinic

Are you curious about how to care for bunnies? Did you recently adopt a pet rabbit? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at your Burleson, TX animal clinic whenever you need! We are committed to providing exceptional care.