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Can I Litter Box Train My Rabbit?
When you hear
the word "litter box," most people think of a cat.
But, rabbits can be trained to use them as well.
Here's how:
- Pick an appropriate
litter box. Make sure it is sturdy and impermeable
and it won't break or splinter, if chewed. It
should be large enough for the rabbit to fully
stretch or stand up. High sides and covers will
prevent litter from spilling out of the box, but
may intimidate your rabbit.
- Choose a good litter.
Clay-based and clumping litters which are often
used with cats are not recommended for rabbits.
Rabbits are more likely to ingest the litter,
which can lead to intestinal blockages. For rabbits,
use litter made from aspen shavings or recycled
paper. Pine and cedar shavings can be unhealthy
for rabbits so they should be avioded.
- Locate your rabbit's
preferred "potty spot." Figure out the areas of
the cage or room that your rabbit uses as a bathroom.
Simply place a litter box in that corner. If you
are in a larger room or allow access to multiple
rooms, additional litterboxes are recommended.
- Leave scent clues.
Place a few recent droppings in the box. This
helps trigger the rabbit's instinct to use the
box as a bathroom. Placing timothy hay in the
litter box with your rabbit will reinforce this
behavior as both functions often occur at the
same time.
- Reward your rabbit.
Reinforce litter box use by offering favorite
food treats when your bunny shows good potty manners
while he is still in the litterbox.
- Keep the litter
box clean. Dirty boxes simply won't get used.
Keep the box fresh! All litter should be removed
and the litter box scrubbed every other day. If
the box is used infrequently, such as in a room
your rabbit is only allowed into for short periods
of time, cleaning out the soiled portions and
scrubbing it every week would be appropriate.
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