Cover electrical cords, block off small spaces where rabbits could get stuck, and remove toxic plants and harmful substances. A designated area with easy-to-clean flooring, their litter tray, food, and water bowls, and a hiding space is essential. If opting for a hutch, it should be spacious enough for the rabbit to move freely and stand on their hind legs without any restrictions. Creating a stimulating and nurturing environment is crucial for your rabbit's well being.
In this post, we explore essential rabbit accessories you should consider to ensure your rabbit is happy, healthy, and well-entertained.
The Importance of Entertainment
Rabbits are intelligent and playful creatures that require mental stimulation to remain healthy and happy. Lack of entertainment and engagement can lead to destructive behaviours and health issues like obesity. By adding chew toys, activity balls, and tunnels into their environment, you provide them with opportunities to engage in natural behaviours such as chewing, foraging, and exploring, which are essential for their well-being.
Natural Rabbit Food
The most important thing to your rabbit's health is their diet. Rabbits thrive on high-quality natural rabbit food that mimics what they would eat in the wild. This includes a variety of hay, fresh vegetables, and a limited amount of fruits. Hay should take up about 70% of their diet, aiding in digestive health and dental wear. Look for options like Timothy hay, which is widely recommended for its nutritional balance and fibre content. Avoid muesli-style foods, which can lead to selective eating and health issues like GI Stasis, which can be fatal to rabbits.
Activity Balls and Toys
Keeping your rabbit mentally stimulated is as important as maintaining their physical health. Activity balls are ideal for this. These accessories encourage your rabbit to engage in natural foraging behaviours, as they have to work to retrieve treats from inside the ball. This not only keeps them active but also prevents boredom. Bored rabbits can end up becoming depressed, leading to further health issues. This will also turn their attention away from chewing through your carpets and wires. When choosing a toy for your rabbit, ensure it is made from safe, non-toxic materials.
Treats
While treats should only make up a small portion of your rabbit's diet, they are great for occasional indulgence and can be useful for training purposes. It's best to go for natural treats that are low in sugar and high in fibre. Avoid processed treats and opt for fresh vegetables or small pieces of fruit as healthier alternatives. Remember to introduce treats gradually and monitor your rabbit's weight to ensure they maintain a healthy diet.
Small Animal Litter
Although in the past people have kept rabbits in small hutches with hay and sawdust for bedding, with more people keeping their rabbits inside, litter training is on the rise. When setting up a litter tray for your house rabbit, choosing the right bedding is crucial for their health and cleanliness. A highly recommended option is the Back-2-Nature Small Animal and Bird Bedding and Litter, which is specifically designed for small animals like rabbits. This bedding is made from recycled paper with no additives or chemicals, making it both environmentally friendly and safe for your rabbit.
Searching for Rabbit Accessories?
Investing in the right accessories for your house rabbit is not just about entertainment, it's about providing a habitat that supports their natural behaviours and needs. From the right kind of natural food to fun and safe toys, each product plays a pivotal role in ensuring your rabbit's life is as joyful and healthy as possible.
At Sash & Pepps we offer a range of products specifically tailored to meet these needs, ensuring that your rabbit has the best possible care at home. Remember, a happy rabbit is an active and engaged rabbit, so keep their environment enriched with the right mix of accessories and watch them thrive in your loving care.
