Welcome to the wonderful world of rabbit companionship! As these adorable, hopping creatures leap into your life, it’s essential to provide them with the special care and attention they need for their well-being and happiness. To help your new rabbit settle into their new environment and foster a strong bond, here are some valuable tips to consider. 

Be Patient and Allow Time for Adjustment

Rabbits are naturally cautious animals, so it’s important to be patient and give them time to get used to their new surroundings. Here’s what you can do: 

• Provide a quiet space: Set up a designated area in your home where your rabbit can feel safe and secure. This will be their sanctuary as they adjust to their new environment. 
• Establish a consistent routine: Rabbits thrive on routine, so establish a schedule for meals, playtime, and quiet time. Consistency will help your rabbit feel more secure and reduce stress. 

Building Trust and Confidence

Building trust with your rabbit is crucial for a healthy and positive relationship. Here’s how you can foster trust and confidence: 

• Show confidence and understanding: Approach your rabbit calmly and speak in a gentle tone. Move slowly and avoid sudden movements that may startle them. Patience and understanding will go a long way in building trust. 
• Spend quality time together: Set aside regular bonding time with your rabbit. Sit near their enclosure and read a book or speak softly to them. Offer treats and observe their body language to ensure they feel comfortable and safe. 

Providing a Safe and Stimulating Environment

Rabbits need plenty of space and mental stimulation to thrive. Consider the following tips for creating a suitable living environment: 

• Outdoor time: Allow your rabbit time to roam outside their enclosure daily, in a secure and supervised space. This will provide them with exercise and mental stimulation. Once your rabbit is litterbox trained, they can have free roam of the house just like a dog or cat! 
• Rabbit-proof your home: Remove any hazards or toxic plants from your rabbit’s play area. Rabbits love to chew, so provide appropriate chew toys and hide electrical cords or other dangerous items. 
• Provide ample space and enrichment: Rabbits need space to hop, stretch, and exercise. Provide a spacious enclosure with multiple levels, tunnels, and toys for them to explore. Encourage their natural behaviours like digging and chewing by providing appropriate outlets for these activities. 

Ensuring Comfort and Safety

To ensure the comfort and safety of your rabbit, take the following precautions: 

• Use a suitable cage: Choose a cage that is spacious, secure, and without a wire floor. Wire floors will cause injuries to their sensitive feet. 
• Maintain a comfortable temperature: Rabbits are sensitive to temperature extremes. Ensure the environment is neither too hot nor too cold, and avoid drafts or direct exposure to vents. 
• Minimize loud noises: Rabbits have sensitive ears and can easily get stressed by loud noises. Keep their environment calm and quiet to help them feel safe and secure. 
• Keep them in a busy location: While they do enjoy peace and quiet, rabbits are social animals that love interactions, so we recommend keeping them where they can see people. 

Building Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is an effective way to train and bond with your rabbit. Here’s what to keep in mind: 

• Avoid yelling or physically punishing your rabbit: This not only makes your rabbit afraid of you, but it can severely damage the trust you’ve built. 
• Use treats, praise, and rewards to encourage desired behaviours: Rabbits thrive on positive reinforcement training just like dogs!