Have you recently adopted a bunny? Congratulations! Floppy is a very fun pet! One thing that is very important for bunny owners to understand is that these little furballs need to chew quite a bit to keep their teeth healthy. In order to protect both your furry friend and your belongings, you’ll need to do some bunnyproofing before you let Floppy out to play. In this article from Westside Animal Hospital, a local Savannah, GA vet offers some helpful bunnyproofing tips.

Toxins

Make sure to remove or secure anything that could be toxic to your four-legged buddy. This includes poisonous plants; medicine; chemicals; pesticides; cleaning products; automotive products; fertilizers; fungicides; herbicides; and unsafe foods. Ask your vet for more information.

Small/Sharp Objects

Beads, pins, tacks, fishing tackle and lures, jewelry, and other small and/or sharp objects are definitely not safe for Floppy. Keep these things well out of paws’ reach!

Furniture Legs

Furniture legs make very tempting targets for frisky bunnies. Use protective coverings and/or taste deterrent on furniture legs and baseboards.

Closets

An open closet—especially one full of shoes and purses—can be a veritable playground for a frisky bunny. Be sure to keep closet doors shut.

Open Spaces

Bunnies love to get underneath beds and couches and nibble on the bottom upholstery. Seal off openings behind and beneath your furniture and cabinets.

Carpet

Floppy has also been known to chew on carpet fibers. You may want to set aside one room or area for your furry pal to play in, and put area rugs or mats down in that spot.

Plastics

Plastic bags, wrappers, and ties are also on the no-no list. Keep these things away from your cute little pet!

Tips

Floppy is fully capable of learning what is and is not suitable for her to play with. Never punish your bunny for misbehaving, however: this may only frighten her. Instead, stamp your foot or clap your hands, and tell her ‘No’ in a firm voice. Then, offer your furry pal a more suitable toy. Shower her with praise and treats for chewing properly. It’s also important to make sure Floppy always has plenty of safe, suitable chew toys. Ask your vet for specific advice. Please contact us here at Westside Animal Hospital, your Savannah, GA animal clinic, for all of your bunny’s veterinary care needs. We are dedicated to providing excellent veterinary care!