Nervous rabbits – how to help keep them happy
August 14, 2023
Creating a calm environment for your indoor rabbit at home will help them to thrive. Take a look at Rowan Vets’ tips for reducing stress and providing a healthy home for your rabbits below – this is especially important with firework season starting in a few weeks…
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1. Provide a quiet space
Rabbits can be easily startled – loud noises and sudden movements can make them feel overwhelmed so it’s important to provide them with a quiet space where they can retreat to. This can be a whole designated room, or a section of a room that tends to be calmer and is not somewhere with high traffic, such as a walkway or noisy kitchen. Remember, during firework season they will need hiding spaces to retreat to so build these into their home design.
2. Control the temperature
According to our nursing team, rabbits are sensitive to temperature changes, so it’s important to maintain a consistent temperature in their living space. The ideal temperature range for a rabbit is between 15 and 21 degrees Celsius.
3. Make it comfortable
A comfortable living space is essential for your rabbit’s wellbeing. Make sure they have plenty of space to get physical, stretch and play with their toys. By providing them with soft bedding, it will encourage them to rest regularly.
4. Clean often
Rowan Vets’ nurses also advise that a clean-living space is important for your rabbit’s health and wellbeing. Regularly cleaning their living area, litter box, food and water bowls will help to prevent the build-up of bacteria. Also, remember to keep an eye on your rabbit’s hind end for signs of flystrike. Even indoor rabbits are at risk and if you encourage your rabbit to have time in the garden, it’s essential you monitor them for signs of flystrike. Contact us immediately on 01772 639 800 if you suspect your pet may need vet assistance from Rowan Vets.
5. Avoid stressful situations where possible
Make sure you are not exposing your rabbit to loud noises, sudden movements and interactions with aggressive animals. These situations can cause anxiety and fear in rabbits, which can lead to poor health issues. Firework season will be undoubtedly stressful for your rabbit so drawing the curtains early to hide light flashes, shutting all the windows to reduce the noise and talking to them in a soothing tone will help to keep them calm. You may want to get them used to soothing music ahead of time so that this will help on ‘firework days’.
6. Provide enrichment
Rabbits are intelligent animals that require mental stimulation. Provide them with toys, tunnels, and obstacles to play with and explore. This will help keep them stimulated and prevent boredom. Hay and treats can also be used as a good distraction during firework season.
Remember, your rabbits have incredibly sensitive hearing so firework season may prove to be a stressful time of year. Share this article with other rabbit owners so Rowan Vets’ advice can help as many rabbits in Lancashire as possible.
