What to do when you first get a rabbit?

[MichiganRabbits]

So I got a 4 month old Netherland dwarf (named Baylor) yesterday and I was wondering whether I should let him out of his hutch for exercise today or if I should keep him in his hutch to adjust to a new living setup? (I am not planning to keep him in a hutch for long, it is serving as temporary housing until the x pen comes in the mail) Also, we adopted him from a family whose cat kept attacking him and he does like to nip me when I put my hand in his hutch to grab his water dish. Any pointers on bonding with Baylor? I would greatly appreciate some tips!

[Wick & Fable]

There’s a lot to do! I highly recommend reading the RABBIT INFO section of this website so you have the essential background knowledge needed to continue caring for Baylor.

There should always be daily opportunities to get adequate exercise in a large space for as long as possible. It’s great that you are getting an Xpen. If it’s not too stressful and is easy to do, simply offering the free-roam time may be nice, but do not force it — if the rabbit wants to stay inside, let it stay inside.

If the xpen doesn’t come in the next day or so though, I would make a temporary, larger space for the rabbit to get adequate exercise.

Do you have an idea of how long he would spend in the cage per day and how big is it?

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.

[MichiganRabbits]

The x pen is 4×4 ft and is 4 ft tall. I’m going to try to give him free roam time as much as possible especially during his most active hours. When I have been giving him playtime I’ve been leaving his door open and letting him come to me. Also I’ve been getting down on his level and letting him investigate me. I’ve already read the Rabbit Info section and have watched almost all of 101rabbits and Lennon the bunny’s videos on YouTube. Thank you for the help and I’ll look into making a larger pen of the x pen doesn’t come soon❤️

[HipHopBunny]

Wow, @MichiganRabbits it is very impressive how much you are doing to learn about rabbits. 🙂 Your bun scored lucky landing a home with you. 🙂

[Author]

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