How to rabbit-proof your house

Rabbit-proofing your house is essential to both the safety of your rabbit and the preservation of your home. Rabbits are curious and playful but also have a natural instinct to chew and dig. Here are some steps to bunny-proof effectively.

• Cover Electrical Cords - Rabbits may chew on electrical cords, which is dangerous. Use cord protectors, split loom tubing, or PVC pipes to cover cords, or keep them out of reach entirely. Our store has two sizes of cord protectors.
• Protect Your Furniture and Carpet - Furniture legs and corners are tempting chew targets. Protect them with plastic guards, cardboard, or specifically designed products for rabbit-proofing. Bitter apple spray can sometimes deter chewing, but it's not effective for all rabbits. For carpets, use natural mats, rugs, or tile squares in their favorite spots to protect your floors. Ensure these are secure to prevent slipping. You can also provide a dig box or a designated digging area that can help satisfy their natural instincts without damaging your carpets. We carry many types of products to protect your floor.
• Slippery Flooring - Consider adding rugs, carpet tiles, or mats from BinkyBunny to help your rabbit get traction. Make sure these are secure on the floor to prevent sliding, which could injure your rabbit.
• Secure Loose Items - Rabbits can chew on or swallow small items, which could be harmful. Keep books, remote controls, and other chewable items out of reach.
• Block Off Forbidden Areas - Use pens or baby gates to restrict access to areas of the house that haven't been rabbit-proofed or could be dangerous for your bunny to explore. Make sure the barriers are tall enough; some rabbits can jump surprisingly high.
• Houseplants Safety - Many houseplants are toxic to rabbits. Move plants to inaccessible areas or replace them with rabbit-safe alternatives. If you're not sure which plants are safe, it's best to err on the side of caution and keep them all away from your bunny.
• Provide Appropriate Toys and Chewables - Offer your rabbit-safe toys and chewing options, like untreated wood blocks, cardboard tubes, and baskets. This can help satisfy their chewing instinct harmlessly. This can help divert their attention from your belongings.
• Provide an Enriched Environment - Providing an enriched environment, like a playhouse or toy, for your rabbit is crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Rabbits are intelligent, social, and active animals that require stimulation to live happy and healthy lives.
• Storage and Chemicals - Ensure all chemicals, detergents, and potentially harmful substances are stored in cabinets or areas your rabbit cannot access.
• Check for Escape Routes - Ensure there are no small gaps or spaces where your rabbit could escape, especially in outdoor areas if they have access. Rabbits can squeeze into surprisingly small spaces. Block off access to the undersides of beds and sofas, and make sure there are no spaces where your rabbit could get stuck or chew on something they shouldn't.
• Regular Supervision - Even with all precautions, the best way to ensure your rabbit's safety is to supervise their activity, especially when they're exploring new areas.

Remember, every rabbit is different, and you may need to adjust your bunny-proofing strategies based on your rabbit's behavior and the layout of your home. With some patience and observation, you can create a safe and enjoyable environment for your bunny to explore.

For specific products and more detailed advice on rabbit-proofing, I recommend visiting BinkyBunny Forums, and the Information Pages. They provide a community-driven wealth of knowledge tailored to rabbit care and safety.

The Binky Team