New Bunny Owner!!!

[orion]

Hi all! I’m glad to have got my new baby bunny (2 days now). She’s 8 weeks old and being a new owner, I just had a few questions. Like…

I’m unsure on the setup of her cage. I had put her water and food bowl on one side and the open litter box on the other side with hay in front of her. Should I get her a more “closed” box with sides and such and put the hay on one side, litter on another? I plan on getting her spayed when she’s ready, but is it possible to try to litter train her now?

Also, she does NOT come out of her cage. She absolutely hates it but I figured she’s scared of the new environment and all. She lets me pet her all the time and doesn’t freak out too much when I have to pick her up. Will she start to come out when she’s more used to me or is it because I have tile flooring and she might hate it?

One last thing, I have an old cat and he’s super friendly and has no problem with little baby Orion. Although, he does have fleas and he likes to stay in the same room as her. I noticed one flea on Orion and immidietly freaked out! I really don’t want her getting fleas and my old cat is very sick and we’re unable to treat his sicknesses. Any suggestions to keep Orion clean and safe without fleas?

[Wick & Fable]

Yes, you can litter train now. Some unfixed rabbits will pick it up, some won’t. End of the day, don’t expect perfection over night, or generally. Wick is neutered and very obedient, but he’ll still poop to mark new places he’s never been before or pee when he’s mad at me.

You will need to be patient and go at her comfort pace, not your projection of what you think it should be. If she’s not comfortable outside the cage yet. just give her time. Rabbits are weary of slippery surfaces, which may add to the discomfort, but most eventually try it out and get used to it. Putting a few rugs may help the process, so she can run from one place to another easily.

You should separate the cat and rabbit, and speak to a rabbit experienced vet about flea prevention. There are flea products out there, but some are safe for cats/dogs yet toxic for rabbits, so it’s important you’re getting your information from a RABBIT EXPERIENCED AND SAVVY veterinarian.

One note: Don’t be surprised if your rabbit ends up being a male. Sexing a rabbit at a young age is difficult, as the skin, fur, etc.. both blocks the view and has not fully developed into its desired shape.

Very important note: Get a rabbit-savvy vet, and take her in for a general check-up. Additionally, a rabbit vet will be able to give you a briefing on proper diet and care. The basics, which are vital, are on this site, in the BUNNY INFO section.

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.

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