Rabbit Haven
Gig Harbor, WA
 

A shelter and sanctuary for unwanted and mistreated rabbits … until they all have homes.

CHEWING

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Rabbits do not respond well to physical discipline.  They have been designed to be easily frightened and broken; never physically discipline your rabbit.  You and/or your rabbit could end up seriously hurt and your rabbit will end up terrified of you rather than your loving companion.

Chewing

Wires:  Rabbits love to chew on wires – electric, phone, cable and computer wires. You must protect your possessions as well as your rabbit’s life. You can purchase plastic tubing which, when slit open, can be slipped over most wires and taped in a few places. Bunny doesn’t find this as enticing. Some wires can be taped up higher on the wall or tucked under the rug. Check hidden places where the rabbit could climb up and reach those wires. He might find wires that you can’t see as well, such as behind the washer or dryer, behind the TV or behind or under the bed.

Corners:  Some rabbits will chew on the corners of the walls or wood trim on windows and baseboards. This is one reason you must watch your rabbit while he is free in the house. If he finds an irresistible spot, you can purchase hard plastic corners at the hardware store. These were meant for the edges of wallpaper. Sheet rock is not good for them.

Wood:  For items like chair legs, coffee tables, kitchen cabinets and doorframes, a product called "Bitter Apple" can be purchased at most pet stores. It is applied to the wood and serves as a deterrent to chewing. They must have their own piece of wood to chew on. If they continue to chew on your wood, clap your hands loudly to make them stop then give them their own wood to chew on. (NO CEDAR)

Rabbits will sometimes chew and exhibit destructive behaviors out of boredom.  As social creatures, rabbits do better with a friend like them.  Also providing toys can help cut back on unwanted chewing behaviors.  Things like empty toilet and paper towel tubes, baskets, old paperback novels or phonebooks, etc. can help to satisfy bun's desires to chew and shred.

When you see your rabbit chewing on something he/she isn't supposed to, loudly stomp your foot, clap your hands or whistle.  When you have bun's attention, give a firm "No Bite!"  Consistency is a must when trying to assist your bun in unlearning bad behaviors.  Time, patience and positive reinforcement of good behaviors will go a long way in helping you help your rabbit.