Landlords and “caged” bunnies…

[TheVelveteenRabbit]

I’m planning to move within the next month.

I was initially worried about my housing options with a bunny in tow, but I’ve emailed about maybe 5 landlords so far, and every single one of them said yes to my bunny. Even the ones with “no pets” as a bullet on their listing. But I sort of blurred the truth and informed them my bunny is caged. He sort of is, but only when I’m at work or asleep. If I’m home, he’s out. Usually my bunny is out for around 7 hours a work day, and basically all day on my off days.

He’s a very well-behaved and non-destructive bunny, so I’m not worried at all at potential damages. Excluding his hutch and my desk (free standing things, and only minor nibbling at that) he hasn’t caused a lick of damage to my current house after 6 months of owning him. What I’m worried about is my landlord somehow seeing him out and about. For one listing in particular (my favorite one) this is quite possible, as it’s a guest house/studio and the landlord lives in the main house. I would be careful about it (probably draw the shutters etc.) but I’m still worried. This was one of the “no pets” listings.

I’m wondering what exactly a landlord could do if this was something they were super strict about, and if I should find a more private/pet friendly listing, if only for my sanity. Any advice on this topic would be appreciated.

[Wick & Fable]

Actually really familiar with this because I’m also moving.

If the property’s pet policy states defines a rabbit as a caged animal already, then they may not have flexibility to change the charges (or lack of) on your rabbit, despite it being free-roam. Based on Fair Housing laws (if you’re in the US; usually associated with not discriminating based on race/ethnicity), they can’t make many “exceptions” (i.e. Charge for your rabbit, but not for another persons). As someone I spoke with over the phone stated, they need to treat all rabbits the same.

Honestly, I would come clean now just in case, so you are aware of potential charges the rabbit may occur. Many places I’ve inquired to are completely fine with Wick, and usually drop any pet fees. Most people don’t know how much damage a rabbit can do (“We only charge for dogs and cats. A small rabbit won’t really do much.”), so use that to your advantage.

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.

[Deleted User]

I was evicted from a place with my two boys because they were initially okay with caged animals. When they found out we had bunnies and not guinea pigs or hamsters, their tone was entirely different and they gave us two weeks to either get rid of my boys or move out. So I think you should be upfront about him being out of the cage at night, because a bunny does need exercise, and you can’t change that just because they want him caged constantly.

[TheVelveteenRabbit]

All good points and advice. Thank you both. Also glad to see you are both on the “be completely up front with the landlord” page. Many other posts I’ve sifted through on this topic seem to be in the “just tell the landlord a little white lie about his actual caging situation” camp. It was the advice I was initially following, but it seemed pretty risky. I’d rather just be totally honest to avoid complications.

I’ll have another talk with the landlord and explain he does come out of the cage, but only under my direct supervision. Don’t worry, I would never keep him confined 24/7 just to satisfy a landlord. Worst case scenario, I’ll find another place, and will be up front from the beginning. For my bunny first and foremost, but also so I don’t have to worry constantly about potential eviction for simply letting my little guy out for his right to exercise and play.

[TheVelveteenRabbit]

[GarfyTheLop]

I agree with everything Wick/A&B have said but thought I should also mention if they’re a bit funny with it that you could offer a slightly higher deposit?
Good luck with finding a place, hope it all goes well for you!

[Bladesmith]

My landlord said, in reference to my Quaker parrot and my daughters Bearded Dragon, “As long as any pets you have have cages, it’s fine. Heh Heh Heh.

Well, the buns AND the cats all have cages. They….just never seem to find their way into them. But there ARE cages. Empty, dusty, cages.

I know, I know, I’m a rule breaker.

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