Can you Keep PET RABBIT Indoors?

Pets are the most loyal and loving companions one can have. Many people are now seeing the fun and companionship that comes with owning a pet. Usually, people own puppies, kittens, and birds. The more bizarre choices include reptiles, spiders, and pigs. Some of you may not have the inclination to these animals and would like a fluffy and cute bunny instead but you’re wondering whether you can actually keep them inside your house without any problems.

Albino angora rabbit (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Here are some good reminders and pointers you would want to consider if you plan on owning an indoor rabbit:

Nature of Rabbits

Rabbits are intelligent and social animals capable of human companionship. They are often cautious and timid in nature. In their natural habitat, they live in groups; usually within burrows. Rabbits are most active in dawn and dusk and live on the average of 9-12 years. They can hardly stay still and are very active. They chew on almost anything to be preoccupied. 

Furthermore, a rabbit has fragile bones in the back and needs proper support when handling. The owner needs to know the proper handling methods if he/she plans to take care of one. Often, rabbits can display aggression if threatened. They bite but usually not with enough force to inflict wounds. These can be corrected by behavioural tools and winning the creature’s trust. They also need regular physical and mental exercise to stay healthy.

Housing Your Rabbit

Rabbits can either be kept in the backyard or indoors. Some practice putting out the rabbit outside during the day in good weather to roam free and placed indoors for the night. This will give the rabbit daylight and space to exercise. However, they may fall prey to stray animals and other predators that can wander your yard. Some owners prefer to keep their rabbits indoor to roam free. This is not achieved without proper training and precautions. 

Rabbits often chew on anything they can and you need to keep chords away from sight or reach of the animal to avoid electrocution. If you want to minimize them from chewing on your furniture then it is wise to give them toys to play with and a lot of attention to keep them preoccupied. If you do not have the time to spare in training the animals, then you might want to keep them in a cage. There are a lot of types you can choose from depending on your preference and needs.

• Custom Enclosures – These are fenced or boxed areas where a bunny can freely roam. You can build these with wood, metal, or repurposed furniture. However, never use chicken wires since they can chew on them and get hurt.

• Cages – design the cage according to your living arrangements but be sure it’s not too small. Do not keep your bunny locked up in the cage the whole day and bring them out to exercise for at least two hours. Some prefer cages with wire bottoms to facilitate cleaning but be sure that you place a piece of wood or platform where the bunny can lie or stand on to avoid damaging its paws.

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