Am I Treating My Bunny Okay???

[Grace]

Hi binkybunny fam,

I keep my holland lop doe (6 months) in a playpen every day, and it’s about 12ft x 9 ft. It’s a big space, probably like a small bedroom and she has it all to herself. She has plenty of timothy hay to eat and her litter is changed every day. I just feel bad because sometimes I can only spend 2 hrs with her for the day when I have to be out for the night and it kills me on the inside. Otherwise, I usually spend 5-6 hours with her every day petting her or just chilling next to her. When I’m out for hte night, I just worry about how she might be so lonely or chewing on the playpen bars from stress/frustration. Am I spending enough time with her?? I am getting her a friend but he won’t be here until December after she is spayed. Am I treating her okay?? I hate feeling like she’s neglected all night during the few times I am gone. I just imagine her flopped in the center of her playpen being bored. Pls let me know, thank you

[Wick & Fable]

If she consistently shows aggressive behavior or lethargic depressed behavior from being alone, than thinking about stimulating toys and climbable items for her space could help to keep her amused, if she likes that. You can also try putting on white noise, like YouTube videos or a show you typically watch when you’re home. You can also leave items that smell like you in her space, like the pj shirt or pants you wore that day or something, so she feels secure with your scent.

If she isn’t showing those loneliness behaviors, I wouldn’t worry too much. This weekend actually, Wick is home alone from 8AM to 11PM, so he really isn’t getting as much attention as he’s used to. The TV has been left on for him, but typically he’s really fine when I return home. Wick is a single rabbit and I used to worry about him being lonely, but he seems happy regardless!

If you’re curious about her behavior, set up a laptop to webcam and watch her one day while you’re gone. You may be surprised that she just lounges all day potentially.

The answers provided in this discussion are for general guideline purposes only. The information is not intended to diagnose or treat your pet. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or a qualified behaviorist.

[Author]

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