Rabbit won’t get back in the cage?

[bb2692]

My rabbit’s name is Rhett. He’s a one year old male rabbit. He is scheduled to be neutered next week. He’s adorable and very well behaved… except when it’s time to get back in his cage. I used to be able to lure him in with food or carrots. Now, the only way to get him back in is to pick him up. Well, as I’m sure you are aware, he doesn’t like being picked up. Well I could deal with him holding a grudge or being agitated with me, but lately he is trying to flip out of my arms. I’m afraid he’s going to hurt himself or me with the way he’s acting. Anyway, I want to give him time outside of his cage, but I don’t know what else to do right now. He’s used to being out once I get home from work until I go to bed (about 5-6 hours). Anyway, any suggestions on what to do? To be clear on his cage, it’s huge (at least in my opinion). It’s 5′ x 5′ x 4′ He has a bridge and “toys” to chew and hay and food and water and whatnot. Obviously he prefers his freedom, but the cage is pretty roomy considering we live in a one bedroom apartment.

Also, this is my first post here. I’m really sorry if this is the wrong place for this type of question. 

[jerseygirl]

Welcome : )

This section is fine for your question. Just a quick FYI, the site owner will likely contact you soon to pick out another screenname. “BB” is actually the name she goes by here on the forum, so it could get confusing with 2 BB’s!

So does Rhett choose go into his cage and back out again during his free range time? He manages getting in and out when it’s his choice? Is there a little ramp?
It’s a pity the food lure is no longer working for you. Maybe you will have luck again with a treat he values more?

You could try getting him to hop into some sort of box or basket then carry him it that over to the cage door. Even use a litter tray. It’s something that worked well for my rabbit who was very much a “no touchies” bunny when I adopted him. Picking up was a no no. His previous owner had made a little hidey box that when he place it down in front of the bun, he would hop into that, and then the owner was able to pick it up and take bun in the box back to his enclosure. It was something that worked well for me when I first brought him home and was learning the do’s and don’ts with him.

[bb2692]

LOL I definitely was contacted to change my name I can see how that would be confusing!

He does go in and out of his cage during free time, but if I do much as move a muscle while he’s in there, he hauls tail to get as far away from that cage as possible because he knows I might be closing it lol

I like the box idea! I have a little traveling crate that I use to take him to the vet or travel. He likes it pretty well and visits occasionally during free range time. My only concern would be do you think that would make him hate the travel carrier? Should I use a more “neutral” item?

Thanks so much for your response!

[Author]

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