Transition to free range? Good idea?

[Maggie]

Hello! I got my bunbun two months ago and neutered him a month ago. The whole idea was that he has a cage (biggest store bought cage I could find) as a safe space with food, water and the litter box, but the cage is always open so he gets to go out whenever he likes. This has worked out moderately well but my bun mostly just likes to stay in the cage and doesn’t explore nearly as much as a bunny should. He’s gotten a bit fat and Im concerned about him not getting enough exercise. So I’ve been thinking about removing the plastic bottom of the cage he’s in, but letting the top stay, and that way slowly transitioning to free-range. I dont want to completely remove his safe space but I think if he doesnt have to actively hop out to explore, but instead, is just always on the floor, that will make him move around and explore more. What do you guys think about this? I dont want to stress out my bun too much but I’d like him to roam because right now it just feels like he’s living the sad life of a caged rabbit, even though he can go out. Should I go for it? Or maybe wait? Anything I should think about?

[Wick & Fable]

Your willingness to encourage free-roam is phenomenal – A lot of times, a lot of users will say free-roam is best but people are unable to accommodate that. You’re passionate to do it, so hopefully BB members will offer some good advice!

Free-roam is definitely a great way to encourage exercise. A part of Wick’s daily routine is zoomy-ing back and forth in my bedroom after he’s done digesting his morning veggies. and through free-roam exploration, he has found his sleep spot: http://www.instagram.com/p/BezRYaGhVIs/?taken-by=wick_theboogeyman http://www.instagram.com/p/Bdkm_vllDop/?taken-by=wick_theboogeyman

Rather than compromising his safe space, maybe try and coax him out by feeding him further and further away from the cage. Creating a station or stations around the free-roam space may encourage more traveling: http://www.instagram.com/p/BbHi4R2lg2C/?taken-by=wick_theboogeyman (One of 2 Wick stations in my apartment)

A potentially overlooked part of rabbit activity is how active the environment seems. On days where I just sit around, Wick follows suit. But if I’m going around, cleaning, vacuuming, or just exercising/crawling on the floor, he’ll be more likely to move around. Some times he’ll head to the bedroom, stop in the hallway, and look at me like “Hey, it’s time to go zoomy around the bedroom”, so I follow him and sit on the bed while he prances about everywhere.

Making the room more well-lit may help, as well as bringing some items that he’s familiar with (items from his cage) out may help too!

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]

Have you got boxes and hide outs around the room that he can retreat too? Just wondering if he’s a little nervous and doesn’t feel comfortable enough leaving his safe space?

[Maggie]

Yes! I’ve got hideys and toys outside, the room is bunny-proofed aswell He just seems to feel safest in the darkest corner of the cage and that’s where he usually stays. He does go outside at times but only for a few minutes or so, then he hops right back to the cage.

[Heaven]

Hi Maggie! It’s great that you’re encouraging free roam for your bun

Is he quite a shy little guy in general? I like Wicks idea of feeding him further away from the cage, maybe hand feed him some treats or veggies as well if you’re not already doing that so he feels comfortable around you.

You could also try creating an X pen around a little wider area of his cage so he still feels enclosed from the intimidating outside world but can gradually get used to having more space?

[MountainBuns]

I think that is a good idea. My bunny is free range and she loves to hop and explore. I would though go with Heaven’s and Wick’s ideas and slowly feed him out or first get him used to a bigger area. I would create a place to hide from visitors or unknown sounds/objects.

[Author]

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