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How do I litter train my rabbit?

Last Updated: May 26, 2011

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To litter train your rabbit, start with it confined to its cage with the litter box. Rabbits are more likely to defecate in a corner of the cage, so if you know which corner your rabbit likes to go in, put the litter pan there. If you don't know, you may want to start with several corner litter pans. Keep the litter pan as far away from the food and water as possible. You only need to put a thin layer of litter in the pan as the rabbit may dig or play in it if it is too deep. Use a litter that is safe for rabbits like recycled newspaper. Do not use a clumping cat litter for rabbits as it can be harmful.

If you see the rabbit use its litter pan, make sure to praise it and never punish a rabbit for not using the litter pan. As the rabbit gets more consistent with using the litter pan, you may allow it access to more space in the house. Some rabbits may take time to consistently use the litter pan, while others may pick it up rapidly. This will be affected by the age of the rabbit when you begin the training process. The younger the rabbit, the quicker it will learn.

Spaying or neutering your rabbit will decrease the number of accidents outside of the litter pan and will decrease urine spraying.

Please see the following links for further information:

Spaying and Neutering Your Rabbit

Rabbit Behavioral Problems: Inappropriate Urination

Housing for Indoor Rabbits

Browse related Faqs by tag: companion animals, rabbit, rabbit behavior


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