What to put in a rabbit cage is something that you will want to consider carefully when caring for your pet. After all, rabbits require extra bedding and comfort. The first thing you should consider is the comfort of your bunny. The bedding in the rabbit’s cage should be clean, but it should not be covered entirely. You can purchase a cage with a sliding waste tray or with a wire bottom.
Ensure that the cage is big enough for a litter pan. A door that opens from the side is ideal. A top-opening cage may be difficult to keep clean, and the rabbit may have trouble getting in and out. Avoid wire cage bottoms or chicken wire, as these can cut the rabbit’s mouth. Choose a material that is sturdy enough to stand up to constant gnawing. Buying a cage online is not recommended, but a homemade cage will allow you to design your own size.
While wood shavings are a traditional rabbit bedding, they’re not the best choice for all climates. Cedar wood shavings contain a volatile oil that may be harmful for your pet’s respiratory system. Cedar wood can also cause serious skin and liver problems. Pine shavings, on the other hand, are non-toxic and suitable for a rabbit’s cage. Although wood pellets are more expensive than aspen shavings, they absorb more urine and odor.
Another option to consider is a mat. Mats protect the legs of your pet rabbit and are easier to clean. Many rabbit owners opt to use paper bedding, as this is more readily available. While it’s cheaper and easier to clean than straw, it’s not nearly as absorbent as other bedding materials. A litter box can also help keep the rabbit’s cage floor clean. You can find a safe mat online or at a pet store.
Before buying your new pet rabbit, make sure you purchase the correct size cage. The cages that you buy at pet stores are often too small, and you might be surprised to learn that they’re not actually necessary. For a small rabbit, a 40-inch-long cage is sufficient. A larger cage is preferable for two pets. And remember, bigger is better! You’ll want to make sure the cage is big enough to accommodate the bunny and other pet items it will be bringing home.
Another thing to consider is flooring and bedding. Rabbits’ feet are sensitive, and without proper flooring, it’s very easy for them to develop sore hocks and other issues. So a rabbit cage with a floor and bedding made of a material that is soft enough to cushion the feet is best for their health and happiness. The right flooring also ensures that the rabbit has proper air flow. A cage with a wire-mesh floor will be less confining for your rabbit. Make sure that the cage is 35-inches high.
Aside from flooring, the rabbit cage should have a hiding area. Rabbits prefer soft floors, so be sure to cover any carpets with a cheap area rug. If you don’t want to spend too much money on a carpet, you can also use a cardboard box or a cat cube as a rabbit den. Food and water bowls are also important. Make sure to get heavy ceramic bowls, so that your rabbit won’t flip over.
