Rabbits are adorable creatures that can be found in many backyards across North America. While they may seem like simple animals, there is much more to learn about their behavior and how to care for them. In this article, we will explore the digging behavior of rabbits and what it means for both you and your pet bunny.
As a general rule, rabbits dig for one of two reasons, to make a nest or to refurbish an existing space, or because they are stressed and need an escape from their current environment.
While there are other reasons rabbits may dig, the main reason is to create a safe space. If you notice your rabbit only digs in specific places, it’s likely because those are the only areas where they feel secure. Knowing the reasoning behind their digging behavior allows you to give them a more comfortable environment.
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Why Does My Rabbit Dig in Their Hutch?
Rabbits have a natural urge to dig, and if they don’t have enough space to do so in their enclosure, they will search for other places – like your carpet – to satisfy this instinct. Not only is digging good exercise for rabbits (which helps them maintain their health), but it also prevents boredom and stress.
If your rabbit is bored, it may start to dig in its hutch as a way to relieve that boredom.
If you think your rabbit is bored, try giving them more toys and enrichment items to keep them occupied. This could include anything from willow balls and tunnels to hay racks and cardboard boxes. You can also try letting them out of their hutch more often to exercise and explore.
If your rabbit is stressed, it may start to dig in its hutch as a way to escape that stress.
There are many things that can cause stress in rabbits, but some of the most common include loud noises, bright lights, unfamiliar environments, and changes in routine.
Why Does My Rabbit Dig on Me?
Rabbits often dig on people as a way to get attention. If your rabbit is digging on you and you want them to stop, the best thing to do is ignore the behavior. Once they realize that they’re not getting the reaction they want, they’ll likely stop doing it.
You can also try redirecting their behavior by giving them a toy to dig on or a piece of cloth to nibble on. This will help satisfy their urge to dig without them having to do it on you.
If your rabbit is digging on you and you don’t want them to stop, then you can simply enjoy the moment. Some people find it quite relaxing to have their rabbits dig on them while they’re petting them. Just be sure that your rabbit isn’t digging too hard – you don’t want them to accidentally hurt you.
Why Does My Rabbit Dig in My Bed?
Rabbits often dig in beds as a way to make a nest. This instinct is especially strong in mother rabbits who are preparing a nest for their babies. If you notice your rabbit digging in your bed, it’s best to provide them with an alternative nesting spot. This could be a box filled with hay or soft blankets. You can also try offering them a toy to dig on so that they can satisfy their urge without damaging your bed.
If you’re not comfortable with your rabbit nesting in your bed, you can try to discourage the behavior by making the bed less inviting. This could mean removing soft blankets and pillows or adding a cover to the mattress. You can also try placing a litter box in the bed so that your rabbit has a designated bathroom spot.
I had the unfortunate experience of taking our rabbits up to bed with me, only for them to pee in large quantities. Needless to say, it was not enjoyable…
Do Rabbits Dig when They Are Happy?
Yes, rabbits often dig when they are happy as a way to release that energy. This is why you may see your rabbit digging and then suddenly running around or jumping in the air – they’re just letting out all of their happy energy! If you notice your rabbit getting particularly frisky, it’s best to provide them with a toy to dig on so that they don’t damage your furniture or carpet.
How Do I Know When My Rabbit Is Unhappy?
There are several signs that you can look for to know when your rabbit is unhappy, including:
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Excessive grooming
- Digging in their hutch or cage
- Chewing on cages or furniture
- Pacing back and forth
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take action to try to improve your rabbit’s mood. This could mean giving them more toys and enrichment items, letting them out of their hutch more often, or even taking them to see a veterinarian if you think there may be an underlying health issue.
Help! My Rabbit Digs in The Litterbox!
Most rabbits that dig into their litter box and make a big mess do so because they are bored. If you keep them in a cage that is too small or don’t give them enough enrichment activities, they will have no choice but to resort to digging.
The first method to try if your rabbit is bored is giving them more space to exercise and move around. Additionally, ensure that your rabbit has different types of toys available so they are never bored, including chew toys, digging toys, foraging toysetc. Another important aspect is spending quality time with your rabbit daily since they crave social interaction just like we do.
If your rabbit seems to take joy in making a mess of their litter box, then you’ll need to work on some changes. One way to cut back on the amount of flying debris is by using either a covered litter box or one with high sides. Another method is placing the litter box inside a larger plastic container; that way, mostof the errant pieces will be caught and clean up will be much simpler.
We have one rabbit who demonstrates this same behavior, almost always in the spring. To correct it, we put the litter box inside a wooden box to confine the flying litter.
Ideas to Give to A Digging Rabbit
There are many different ways that you can give your rabbit something to dig on so they can satisfy their urge without damaging your furniture or carpet. Some ideas include:
- A digging box filled with sand, dirt, or hay
- A scratching post or cardboard box for them to chew on
- A tunnel made of cardboard tubes or cloth
- An old towel or shirt that they can dig into
- A toy that they can dig on, such as a digging ball
If you provide your rabbit with several different options, they are sure to find something that they enjoy and will be less likely to damage your belongings.
Conclusion
Rabbits are interesting creatures and, as with most animals, there are some things that we must be aware of in order to keep them healthy and happy. In this article, we have explored some of the common behaviors exhibited by rabbits and what they may mean. We hope that you now have a better understanding of your rabbit and how to deal with any issues that may arise. Thanks for reading!
