How to Litterbox Train Your Bunny

Have you recently adopted a rabbit? Floppy is a very cute and lovable pet, but she can be a messy roommate. However, many people don’t realize that bunnies can be litterbox-trained. In this article from Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, a local vet offers some advice on teaching Floppy to use a litterbox.

The first thing you’ll need to do is go to the pet store. Floppy can use a large cat litterbox. You can also get a shallow storage tote or a cement mixing pan. If you have more than one rabbit, get two boxes, or one that can fit them both at the same time. Bonded bunnies do everything together! When you choose litter, stay away from clay and clumping products. These can be very dangerous if ingested. Brands that contain pine or cedar are also best avoided, as they are toxic to bunnies.

When you set the litterbox out, you’ll want to add some hay, and a little bit of Floppy’s waste. This will help it start to smell like, well, a litterbox. At first, you may want to set out several litterboxes. This will basically just increase the odds of your pet using one of them. Down the road, you will be able to remove the extras. Before setting up the litterboxes, watch your fuzzy friend, and see if there is a specific spot that she seems to prefer. If there is, put one there. Put hayracks in front of the litterboxes: bunnies often nibble while they are using the facilities.

Training will take time and patience, but will be well worth your while. At first, you’ll need to keep a very close eye on your bunny. When you see Floppy acting like she is about to go, pick her up and put her in her litter pan. Then, if she uses it, immediately offer her praise and treats.

Never punish your cute pet for having an accident, or not catching on quickly enough. This could backfire, and make Floppy scared of her litterbox. Just keep at it: sooner or later, your furry little buddy will get the hint!

Do you have questions about your rabbit’s health or care? Contact us here at Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, today!