Are you considering adopting a bunny soon? Floppy is an adorable and entertaining little buddy. It’s important to realize that rabbits are somewhat bashful. Being prey animals in the wild, they must continuously be on the lookout for raptors, wolves, coyotes, wild dogs, and other predators. A local Lawrenceville, GA veterinarian offers some advice on winning Floppy’s heart below.
Start On The Right Foot (Paw)
Establishing trust begins on the day you bring your pet home. Avoid reaching into Floppy’s cage to haul her out. Just open the door and let her come out when she feels ready. It may take time, but sooner or later, your cure pet will get curious about her new surroundings … and you. When she approaches, offer her your hand and let her sniff it. It won’t hurt to offer a treat. (More about that later.)
Bunnyproofing is vital, and should be done before you bring Floppy home. This entails either removing or securing anything and everything you want to keep out of your furry friend’s reach. Seal any open spaces beneath and behind furniture and beds. Baseboards, furniture legs, and any wires or cords should be properly covered. Small or sharp objects, personal things, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals are more things that are potentially hazardous. Consult your Lawrenceville, GA veterinarian for bunnyproofing tips.
Learn How To Read Rabbit Body Language
Bunnies communicate using nonverbal clues. You’ll want to do some reading and research to learn how to understand your cute pet. If your pet is unwell, she may whine, grunt, grind her teeth, or retreat and withdraw. A happy bunny may head bonk you, give you a friendly lick, or curl up next to you.
Avoid Scaring Your Pet
Do not make loud noises or move hastily. Rabbits are quickly startled by abrupt movements. Floppy tends to carry grudges, so if you startle her, she will not forget it.
Do not pick your pet up if she does not want to be held, unless of course you need to move her or get her into her carrier. The Abominable Snow Man’s attempts to befriend Bugs Bunny by smooshing him with cuddles failed, and the same will probably hold true for you! Your furry buddy may be irresistably cute, but dominating her will only scare her.
Talk to Your Rabbit
Talking to pets is always a great strategy to get them used to you. Speak in a joyful and soothing tone of voice. Pay close attention to Floppy’s adorable ears and her reactions.
Provide Fun Toys
Rabbits are quite playful. They also need to chew, so they’ll need plenty of safe and acceptable chew toys. You can get some excellent ones in stores, but you can also make your own at home. Only use safe materials, though. Items made of paper, cardboard, wood, or wicker are often suitable. Avoid objects with sharp edges, plastic components, or threads, and especially anything made of potentially poisonous ingredients. Ask your Lawrenceville, GA veterinarian for more information.
Win Your Bunny’s Adoration with Treats
Snacks are often the route to a pet’s heart. Just pick safe goodies. There are numerous myths and misunderstandings here. For example, while carrots are Bugs Bunny’s fave, they really aren’t the best option for your pet.
Bunnies are well-known for their preference for sugary foods. Although we normally advise restraint when it comes to Floppy’s sweet cravings, you can give her small portions of safe fruits, such as apples, bananas, or strawberries. Other options include apricots, beet greens, bell peppers, blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, cherries (no pits), cranberries, cucumbers, eggplant, grapes, green beans, honeydew, kiwi, mango, papaya, peaches, pears, pineapple, plums, pumpkin, raspberries, and watermelons.
It is equally important to know what is not safe. That includes almonds, artichokes, avocados, beans, coffee, corn, currants, dates, edamame, figs, garlic, green onions, kelp, leeks, lentils, mushrooms, nuts, olives, onions, peanuts, popcorn, potatoes, quinoa, rhubarb, rice, seeds, beet, sweet potatoes, walnuts, and any items containing xylitol, alcohol, or high levels of salt, fat, or sugar. Consult your veterinarian for further information on this topic.
Get Down To Floppy’s Level
When you think about it, we probably look like towering giants from Floppy’s perspective. Getting down to ground level can help you appear less frightening.
Give Floppy Great Care
Animals build connections with the people who care for them and show them kindness. Simple good TLC will really go a long way here. Ask your veterinarian for important tips on rabbit care. This includes things like cage setup, common ailments, dietary recommendations, and toys. We are always delighted to help!
Just Let Love Grow
Your furry friend may need some time to adjust to your presence. Love takes not just time, but also patience, trust, and compassion. That is completely fine!
Schedule an Appointment at Our Lawrenceville, GA Veterinary Clinic
Are you looking for information on rabbit care? Contact us, your Lawrenceville, GA animal clinic, whenever you need help! We are committed to providing great treatment.
