2torial #0931:
Learn2 Care for a Pet Rabbit (continued)

Give it room to run

A healthy rabbit needs exercise--at least a couple of hours a day. This means you should either construct a run in your yard or on a balcony, or bunnyproof part of your house so Thumper can frolic there freely.

What is a run? A run is an enclosed area where a rabbit can, well, run. It should be secure against the rabbit escaping (by jumping or digging) and a predator entering. It can be an area of ground fenced in and roofed with sturdy wire, or part of a porch or balcony with escape routes blocked.

Like a cage or hutch, a run should be dry, shaded, well ventilated, and have a moderate temperature. When the rabbit is in the run, it should have access to food, water, and something safe to chew on.

What is bunnyproofing? Bunnyproofing involves protecting both your rabbit and your possessions from harm. Here are some guidelines:

• Electrical wires fascinate rabbits, who will chew through them if given a chance--possibly dying in the process. Conceal electrical wires under rugs, behind heavy furniture, under electrical tape, or inside plastic tubing. Unplug unneeded lamps or appliances and coil the cords out of reach when the rabbit's roaming.

• Store enticing chewables--like books, papers, shoes, and throw pillows--out of rabbit-reach.

• Throw old sheets or blankets over upholstered furniture.

• If an area of floor or baseboard (or a table leg) seems to attract more chewing or digging than others, protect the spot with a straw mat or piece of wood. Alternatively, spray the area with a smell your rabbit dislikes (try disinfectant, perfume, or a cat repellent spray). Repeated applications should discourage the behavior.

• Kitchens and bathrooms are often the easiest rooms to bunnyproof, as they tend to have fewer soft furnishings and floors to gnaw on or dig at.

• Give the rabbit alternatives: sticks or toys to chew on; a box of straw, kitty litter, or rags to dig in.

Supervise. Stay close for the first few months your rabbit is exercising in its new space. If you supervise, you can troubleshoot problems in your run's construction or security, or in the thoroughness of your bunnyproofing. Your rabbit's exercise time is also a chance for you to get to know each other.