Bunny Free Time

[HocusPocus11018]

Hi all,

I am the new owner of a 9 week old Holland Lop in Ontario Canada. He is named Hocus Pocus, Hocus lives in a large two story dog crate in our downstairs foyer (a large square room about 9ft by 9ft) he is in his cage when I’m at work but when we are home I try to leave his cage open as much as possible as I know exercise is incredibly important…the problem is he doesn’t always want to come out of his cage, even though the door is open he will just chill in his little hiding house for hours…when he does come out he’s very happy he sniffs everything and races around the room like mad,I’m just worried he’s not getting enough cage free time..should I try and coax him out or just leave him alone

[Wick & Fable]

Welocme to BB! Hocus pocus is a wonderful name, and it’s great you’ve seen him zoomies around.

He may be sleeping, as rabbits tend to sleep at times we’re usually active.

The most likely reason is probably security. He’s new to your home, so he needs some time to get used to it. More so than a new dog or cat, a rabbit is always on guard because they are a prey animal. They’re used to everything being an enemy, while dogs and cats are used to being able to take on whatever comes their way.

Just be in his presence, respect his space, and if he comes to you, feel free to interact a bit, though if he hops away, respect that he doesn’t want too much interaction!

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.

[sarahthegemini]

You could try and coax him out or leave him alone, it doesn’t matter really. He’ll come out when he’s ready Just be sure to have hidey places out so he knows he can hide when he’s out of his cage, if he wants too.

I remember the first time my rabbits came out of their cage – Buttercup was really excited. Peanut was very nervous tho and despite my coaxing techniques, he wouldn’t come out til I was ignoring him/not paying attention. When he did come out on to the ramp, he went back in again almost immediately. He did this a few times before coming out ‘for good’ I think he wanted to be sure he could get back in if he wanted. I remember it was a Friday when Buttercup came out but Peanut didn’t venture out til the following Monday.

Ahh memories

[Author]

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