Homemade Rabbit Toys

Do you have a bunny? If so, put a little pawprint on your calendar for September 25th: it’s International Rabbit Day! While you don’t need much of an excuse to pamper your adorable pet, this is a great time to give Floppy some extra TLC, and perhaps score some binkies. Of course, you don’t have to break the bank here. Here, a Middletown, DE veterinarian lists some great toys you can make your bunny.

Toilet Paper Tubes

The tubes from toilet paper and paper towel rolls are quite versatile. You can stack them into little pyramids, or arrange them in a tissue box or shoe box. You can also fold them into envelopes, or slice them into rings and then make small balls out of them. These can also be stuffed with goodies, like fresh herbs.

Shredded Paper

Paper is safe for bunnies to eat. There are many things you can do with it. Fold some plain copy paper into little origami shapes. Or, crumple them up into balls around yummy tidbits. You can also have the kids make snowflake chains.

Hanging Lunch

This one is pretty simple. Get a piece of twine, and string it between two chairs. Then, use wooden clothespins to hang some leafy greens from it. Floppy will get a snack that keeps her occupied!

Dig Boxes

Rabbits love to dig and root through things. Get a shallow storage tote or shoebox, and add a few toys or treats. Then, fill it with shredded paper. You can also add some grass hay. If you have a spot where Floppy can make a bit of a mess, like a patio, you can even use dirt.

Box Castle

Rabbits love to nibble on cardboard. Why not make your pet her own little box castle? You can add as many rooms or stories as you like. Just make sure there aren’t any staples or pieces of tape attached. If you’re going multi-level, you’ll also want to make sure that Floppy’s castle is sturdy enough to support her.

Tips

These are just a few options. You’ll find many more online. Just be sure to put safety first. Never give your furry pal anything small or sharp, or anything with ropes or cords. Anything decorated in glitter, paint, varnish, or dye is also unsafe.

Our Advice on Homemade Rabbit Toys in 2024

What are some homemade toy ideas for rabbits?

Homemade toy ideas for rabbits can provide enrichment and entertainment. Consider repurposing toilet paper tubes by stacking them, arranging them in boxes, folding them into envelopes, or making rings and small balls. Shredded paper can be folded into origami shapes, crumpled into balls with treats, or used for kids’ craft projects like snowflake chains. Hanging lunch toys can be created by stringing leafy greens on twine between two chairs. Dig boxes with shredded paper and grass hay allow rabbits to indulge their natural digging instincts. Cardboard box castles are also popular rabbit toys, free of staples or tape. Always prioritize safety when crafting rabbit toys.

What creative uses of shredded paper can entertain rabbits?

Shredded paper offers creative entertainment for rabbits. You can fold plain copy paper into origami shapes, providing mental stimulation and a chance for rabbits to investigate and chew. Crumpling paper into balls around tasty tidbits adds a foraging element to playtime. Encouraging kids to make snowflake chains with paper is another engaging option. Rabbits enjoy digging and rooting, so filling a shallow storage tote or shoebox with shredded paper and adding a few toys or treats creates a fun digging box. Using dirt instead of shredded paper for outdoor spaces allows rabbits to dig and explore naturally. Always ensure the materials are safe for your rabbit.

What is a dig box, and why do rabbits enjoy it?

A big box is a container, often a shallow storage tote or shoebox, filled with material like shredded paper or dirt, where rabbits can dig and explore. Rabbits enjoy digging boxes because they are instinctive to dig and burrow in the wild. It provides mental and physical stimulation, allowing them to engage in natural behaviors. Digging also helps keep their claws at an appropriate length. It can be a source of entertainment and enrichment, preventing boredom in indoor rabbits. Offering a dig box allows rabbits to express their natural behaviors in a safe and controlled environment, promoting their overall well-being.

What safety precautions should be taken when making homemade rabbit toys?

When crafting homemade rabbit toys, it’s vital to prioritize safety. Avoid using materials that could be harmful, such as small or sharp objects, ropes, or cords that could pose a choking hazard. Steer clear of decorations with glitter, paint, varnish, or dye, as these substances may be toxic if ingested by rabbits. Ensure that any cardboard or paper components are free of staples or tape, which can be ingested and cause digestive issues. Additionally, always supervise your rabbits while they play with homemade toys to prevent any accidents or unintended consumption of materials. Regularly inspect toys for signs of wear and tear, replacing them as needed to maintain a safe play environment for your bunny.

Are there any specific materials or decorations that should be avoided when making rabbit toys?

Indeed, some materials and decorations should be avoided when making rabbit toys. It’s crucial to prevent minor or sharp objects that can be ingested and pose a choking hazard. Avoid using ropes or cords that could entangle or strangle your rabbit. Decorations with glitter, paint, varnish, or dye should also be avoided, as these substances can be toxic if ingested by rabbits. Additionally, ensure that any cardboard or paper components are free of staples or tape, which rabbits may chew and ingest, leading to potential digestive issues. Prioritizing safe materials and avoiding these hazards will help create enjoyable and secure homemade toys for your bunny.

As your Middletown, DE animal clinic, we are ‘hoppy’ to help! Call us anytime!