Chewing - A Problem?

Why Bunnies Chew?

• Chewing is part of a bunny's nature, and to bunnies, it is a rather enjoyable pastime. 
• The practical benefit: a bunny's teeth do not stop growing, so they are worn down by everyday chewing and munching. 

The Right Attitude

From a human's point of view, chewing is often considered to be "bad" behaviour because household items are often targeted for chewing purposes. Common objects include:

• wires
• legs of wooden furniture
• remote control buttons
• books placed on accessible shelves

We must understand that our bunnies don't know it's our treasured possessions they unknowingly damaged. They are innocent.

DO NOT hit, scold or punish your bunny in any way.

The Common Mistake: Chewing "Rewarded"

When we're engrossed in activities like watching TV, a graceful hop up the bookshelf or consistent gnawing on the wooden chair legs will no doubt attract our attention.

In order to somewhat stop this behaviour and resume our activity, we give our bunnies a treat or an extra piece of vegetable. After eating, they usually become satisfied and will go about with their usual grooming or resting business.

Now, here is what the bunny learns from our actions: "Ohh, by chewing, I get something yummy."

The chewing behaviour is unconsciously reinforced!

How to Prevent

1. Provide hay at all times.

• When your bunny finishes the given amount, do not hesitate to offer more. The bunny can munch on the hay to satisfy his/her chewing urge.
  
  
  

2. Chew wood

• These can be bought from a pet shop.

3. Bunny-proofing your home

• You can use baby gates to fence off your study, for example, where the books are kept.
• Wires can be encased in plastic tubing. Slit the length of the tubing to wrap the wire inside. 

First published on 07/08/2011

Bonding With Your Bunny

What is Bonding
Bonding probably sounds like a heavy word! Actually, it simply involves you, the human, hanging out with your bunny and both of you getting to know each other more.

Jippie enjoying pets

The First Step: Abandoning Preconceptions

"Affectionate", "cuddly", and "friendly" - these are the words that tend to come to one's mind when thinking about a bunny.

Bunnies are indeed wonderful, intelligent creatures, but the typical "cute" image of a bunny doesn't represent the actual animal. It is very important that you see your bunny as an individual.

Each bunny has his/her own unique personality; some are naturally adventurous, some are feisty and bossy, while some are shy and are more on the introvert side. 

When bonding (or in less intimidating words, hanging out) with your bunny:

DOs:

• Open the cage door and let your bunny come out on his/her own.
• Sit near, but not directly beside, your bunny. Keep a polite distance. Your bunny will come to you if he/she wants to.
• Talk to your bunny, speak gently and give compliments: "Hello, you're a handsome bunny, you know that?"
• If you wish to pet your bunny, approach slowly with your fingers and start from the head. It is better to position yourself beside your bunny when doing so instead of directly in front of him/her.

DON'Ts:

• Make any sudden, loud noises or movements.
• Carry and cuddle your bunny. He/she is not familiar with you yet, and so might kick and struggle when held against their will, potentially injuring both of you.
• Use your whole hand on his/her back. It may startle him/her.
• Follow or chase your bunny around - you would appear as a threat!

When it is time for your bunny to return to his/her cage or play area, use a strand of vegetable or a tiny piece of carrot to tempt and guide your bunny back. Try to use carrying only as a last resort.

If your bunny seems more interested in knowing the furniture or bookshelf rather than you, there is no need to become disheartened or angry! The keys to a good relationship are:

• Allocating time daily for your bunny.
• Making yourself the source of affection and pets.
• Making yourself the supplier and waiter of your bunny's food.
• Focus on your bunny when you're with him/her. Stop the incessant chatter that is so often present in our busy heads. It's not quality time spent if your mind is constantly on other things.
• Of course, lots of patience and love.

Different Types of Hay Feeders

Timothy hay makes up 75% of a bunny's diet and must be made available to your bunny at all times throughout the day. Since it would be rather boring for your bun to eat hay straight out from a bowl, here are some suggestions on the things you can use to make the hay consumption process more interesting for him/her:

1. Toilet paper roll/Paper towel roll

2. Metal hay ball

3. Household item, eg: steel toothbrush holder

4. Cardboard box