The larger the cage, the better. The cage should be based on the adult size of your rabbit, not his current size if he is not yet full grown. If your living area does not allow for a one-level cage that is at least four times the size of your rabbit, consider purchasing a multi-level cage that has ramps connecting the levels. Consider an even larger cage if your rabbit does not frequently leave his cage to play and exercise. The cage should be large enough to have separate areas for each of your rabbit’s daily activities listed above. If available, choose an enclosure with a high ceiling to give your rabbit space to jump with his hind legs. [4] X Research source Enclosures are available at your local pet store or online.
In addition, make sure the wire siding is not coated with plastic—your rabbit could easily chew through the plastic coating.
The more enriched your rabbit’s cage is, the happier and healthier he will be. The toys and materials you use to create the playful environment in your rabbit’s cage should have smooth and rounded edges, and be non-toxic.
You can also put branches from non-chemically treated fruit trees in your rabbit’s cage. Wooden chew sticks are also good, but your rabbit may become quickly bored with the sticks. [11] X Research source Make sure to provide him with a variety of items, such as an untreated wicker basket and dried-out pine cones, to chew on.
Platforms are also good exercise for your rabbit. The act of jumping onto the platform will improve his physical fitness and bone strength. If your rabbit did not exercise much before you brought him home, he may not have the strength to jump up or down from the platform, and might injure himself trying to do so. Consider starting with a low platform, then use increasingly higher platforms as your rabbit builds up his strength. You could also use interval platforms or ramps. [13] X Research source The platform should be sturdy and made of non-slip material. Examples of good platforms for rabbits include wooden crates, sturdy cardboard boxes, and tree stumps from non-chemically treated fruit trees. [14] X Research source
Cardboard boxes also make great toys. Cardboard boxes with holes cut in them make hiding places, which rabbits need to feel safe in their environment. If you make the holes large enough, large cardboard boxes could also be tunnels for your rabbit. [16] X Research source Items that your rabbit can manipulate and/or toss will keep him entertained. Examples of these items include toy balls, and untreated wicker baskets. Put a few toys or playful objects in his cage at a time, and rotate them out on a regular basis—this will prevent him from getting bored with the same toys.
You could also scatter bits of your rabbit’s food throughout his cage to encourage his natural foraging behavior. Another option is to hang his food in hanging baskets so that he has to reach up and find his food. Placing treats (e. g. , small amount of leafy greens) in a food ball will help keep your rabbit entertained. Make sure that the openings in the ball are not blocked. In addition, the food in the ball should be part of your rabbit’s daily ration.
Have a hiding place, such as a cardboard box, that your rabbit can go to if he feels frightened.
