How to Bunny Proof a Room
Hello there, rabbit lovers! It’s me, Chondon, your Bunny Guru, and I’m here to share one of the most important things with you: bunny-proofing the room.
If you like to let your fur babies run around freely in the house, then you definitely understand how crucial it is to ensure that they are safe.
Let me share what I’ve learned from Mango, Tango, and Rupa.
Why Bunny Proof?
First things first, why do we need to bunny-proof? Rabbits are very inquisitive at times. They like discovering, chewing, and sometimes misbehaving.
So, by rabbit proofing, we provide the needed safety where they can hop, play without harming their selves, and also help avoid any destruction of our stuff.
Begin with the Basics
First of all, when I brought Mango home, I truly had no idea how to bunny proof. Over time, though, I figured out the essentials. Here’s where you can start:
Hide those wires
Rabbits love gnawing on electrical cords. Not only is it a pain to replace them—it is dangerous for the bunnies!
All exposed wires should be covered with plastic tubing or cord protectors. You could get these at most hardware stores.
Move houseplants
Many common houseplants are toxic to rabbits. Move them to a room that your bunny can’t get into, or put them up high out of curious noses’ reach.
Block off small spaces
Rabbits can squeeze into tiny gaps. Look for the spaces behind furniture or appliances where they might get wedged.
Use cardboard, wood, or baby gates to block off these off-limits spots.
Protecting Your Stuff (and Your Bunny)
Now that we have got the basics out of the way, let’s talk about how to protect your stuff—and your bunny:
Furniture protection
Remember how I said rabbits love to chew? Yep, that includes your furniture, too! Protect the legs of wooden furniture by fitting plastic guards or wrapping them in sisal rope. This provides a safe chewing alternative for your bunny.
Secure loose items
Put away anything small enough for your rabbit to swallow. This includes things like buttons, coins, and small decorative items.
Cover baseboards
Baseboards are prime chewing territory for bunnies. You can protect them with plastic guards or pieces of untreated wood attached to the wall.
Secure cabinets and drawers
Curious bunnies might try to open cabinets and drawers. Use child-proof locks to keep them closed.
Create a Bunny-Friendly Space
Bunny proofing is not just a question of protection but making the room enjoyable for your fur friend. Here’s how I make my home rabbit-friendly:
1. Hideaways: Rabbits love to feel safe, concealing themselves in some places. Place boxes or tunnels that are made of cardboard all over the room.
2. Chew Toys: Give your bunny lots of safe things to chew. This keeps their teeth healthy and helps them learn not to chew on your stuff.
3. Supervise and set up a litter box: Like mine, your bunnies can be litter-trained. Place a litter box in one corner of the room. That really cleans up the space and cleans up your life!
4. Multiple levels: They are great climbers and enjoy getting about. Construct some solid boxes or pet stairs for them to hop onto different levels.
Ongoing Maintenance
Bunny proofing is not a one-time thing. Well, it’s an ongoing thing. Here’s what I do to keep my bunnies safe:
1. Regular checks: I regularly do a “bunny-level” check of the room. I get down on the floor and then look around from a rabbit perspective for any new hazards.
2. Replace chew toys: I replace chew toys when they wear out. This cycle keeps my bunnies engaged with their safe toys, thereby lessening their need for chewing on undesirable things.
3. Adjust as needed: As your rabbit grows or their habits change, you may need to adjust your bunny proofing. Stay flexible and observant.
4. Supervise playtime: Even in a bunny-proofed room, supervision of playtime is always recommended for the rabbits. This helps to draw your attention to any sort of problem quickly.
Final Thoughts
Bunny proofing might seem like a lot of work, but trust me, it’s worth it. There is no better feeling than seeing Mango, Tango, and Rupa hop around safely and happily in our home.
Bunny-proofed your home? What issues are you running into? I’d love to hear about it! And if you have any questions feel free to ask me.
That’s what I am here for – to help other rabbit lovers out in giving their bunnies a life filled with happiness.
Happy bunny proofing! Your fur babies will thank you for it.
Chondon Sarker, known as the Bunny Guru, is a passionate rabbit owner with over 10 years of experience. He has three pet rabbits and has gained extensive knowledge in rabbit behavior, health, nutrition, and housing. Chondon aims to share his expertise to help other rabbit lovers provide the best possible care for their furry friends.