Transitioning from free roam to X-pen.

[Tofu the bunny]

Hi there, I adopted my 8 month off rabbit Tofu about 2 months ago. Due to local lockdown restrictions I have been working from home for the past 3 weeks. During these free weeks Tofu has been a free roaming rabbit as I have constantly been in to watch her and create bunny proofing measures. However, I am returning to work in about 2 weeks and cannot trust Tofu to free roam while I’m at working as then supervised I have noticed that she can still be unpredictable and dig/ chew new areas despite bunny proofing measures. She is currently not spayed which may contribute to this however I cannot get this done as the vets are only doing emergency procedures until lockdown is over. Her current set up is an open cage with her wattle bowl, hay and food in and she gets free roam of the living room.

I was planning to fully get rid of her cage  and replace it with a large X-pen in the corner of the living with which contains a litter tray, toys and hidey holes. She would be in this X-pen from 8-5 while I am at work and let out for the night to free roam as soon as I am home. I was just wondering if anyone could provide me with any suggestions on how to smoothly transition her to this new living situation (as I know she won’t be best pleased with being cooped up in a pen during the day!).

Many thanks

[Wick & Fable]

There arent really transition steps  but I recommend binder clipping something to the outside of the pen so she cant see outside it if she starts bar rattling. That is usually a rabbits sleeping time so hopefully not too disruptive for her schedule.

As for spaying, is there a local rabbit rescue in your area? They may know of practices that are still doing those procedures.

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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