How to Exercise Your Rabbit

This is for those of you who have rabbits who remain in cages while you are at work or away from home. Rabbits need exercise to keep them fit.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Take him out of the cage when you get home from work. Let him run around until you go to bed or at least for 4 or 5 hours.
2. Keep him in an area where you can keep watch on him. Especially if your house is not "bunny proofed" (see #27 Make Your Home Safe for Your Rabbit)
3. Give him fun things to play with. A box he can jump on, a small, plastic slinky he can throw, a cardboard toilet paper roll stuffed with hay he can dig at.
4. Keep a "sandbox" handy if he's a digger. Fill a plastic dishpan 1/3 full with sand.
5. Give him toys he can chew on so he doesn't chew on your furniture. This will not only keep him from your "things' but it will keep him stimulated and help with the natural growth of his teeth.
6. Get on the floor and play with him (see #28 Play With Your Rabbit). This will help him bond with you.

Tips & Warnings

• Rabbits need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. This is part of their natural behavior. If they don't get some exercise or stimulation everyday they will soon become lethargic and dispirited. By letting him out of his cage not only will you have a happy bunny, but you will see his character blossom.
• Unless you have trained your rabbit not to chew on your belongings and your house is bunny proofed, never let a rabbit out of your sight. They can get into trouble very quickly. Chewing on the wrong things can harm, even kill your rabbit. Domestic rabbits do not have a sixth sense about what they should or shouldn't eat. Don't assume they won't eat the wrong things (plants included). They can also get caught in tight spots and not be able to get out. Keep the bathroom door closed so they don't fall in the toilet.