Last Updated on April 18, 2022 by Dan Mehta
Rabbits are not only just cute and adorable, they make for great playful pets! Rabbits are social creatures that love to play.
But, the way to play with rabbits is very different from the ways one would play with dogs or cats. What is fun for other pets might be scary and not so fun for rabbits.
We have a lot of ideas for some safe and fun ways to play with your bunny! Plus, some ideas for toys and games that will keep them active and entertained all day long!
Contents
Playing with Bunnies: An Overview
Playing with bunnies is a lot calmer than playing with other common housepets like dogs and cats. This is because rabbits are prey animals and can get scared easily. Rabbits also don’t like loud noises and sudden movements.
The key to playing with rabbits is to make playtime active but calm. These are a few toys that one may use to play with bunnies
- Cardboard boxes
- Willow balls
- Cardboard castle
- Carrot tops
- Toilet paper tubes
- Wooden blocks
- Plastic baby toys
- Ball roll
How to Play with a Bunny
So how do you actually play with a rabbit? It’s one thing to know the toys that you can use to play with them, but it’s much more important to know how to play with them.
Here are some tips and tricks:
1. Think about a rabbit’s perspective
The world is a scary place for a rabbit. They are small and vulnerable, and because they’re prey animals they fear that there are all sorts of dangers lurking around every corner.
That’s why it’s so important to think about a rabbit’s perspective when you’re playing with them. Loud noises and sudden movements can be very scary for a rabbit. This is an instant that comes naturally to them due to their prey nature.
And while it might be tempting to chase a rabbit around, remember that this will only make them feel more stressed and unsafe. So next time you’re playing with your rabbit, take a moment to think about what they’re feeling. It’ll make for a much more enjoyable experience for both of you.
2. Learn about rabbit bunny language
As any rabbit owner knows, these furry little creatures are wonderfully unique pets. But because they’re so different from us, it can be tough to figure out what they’re trying to say.
That’s why it’s important to learn about rabbit body language. By understanding the different ways that rabbits communicate, you can make sure that your bunny is always comfortable and happy.
One of the most common rabbit body language cues is thumping. This is when a rabbit quickly slams its hind leg on the ground.
It’s usually a sign of excitement or fear, so if you see your rabbit thumping, pay attention to what’s going on around him. If he seems scared or threatened, try to remove the source of his stress.
The stress could be the way that you’re playing with them. Maybe they’re still not comfortable being around you, rabbits who feel threatened can also become aggressive so it serves to be cautious if they display aggressive body language.
3. Stay on your rabbit’s level
When playing with bunnies, you should stay on their level by getting down close to the ground. This way they’ll feel less intimidated and more comfortable with you.
Don’t try to pick them up or carry them, as this can scare them. Only predators pick rabbits up in the wild.
Instead, stroke them gently and speak in a soft voice. By staying at their level, you will help them feel comfortable and safe.
4. Don’t force your rabbit
If you’ve ever tried to bond with a new rabbit, you know that they can be a bit shy at first. And while it may be tempting to try and force them to play, the best way to win your rabbit’s affection is to give them time to get comfortable with you.
After all, rabbits are naturally timid creatures, and they need to feel safe before they’ll let their guard down. So take things slowly, and don’t push your rabbit to play until they’re ready. With a little patience, you’ll be able to build a strong bond with your furry friend.
5. Pay attention to the time of day
Rabbits are crepuscular animals, this means that they are most active during dawn and dusk. So, if you want to play with your bunnies these are the good times to do so as they will be up and awake.
Do not ever try to wake a sleeping bunny to play. This will make them stressed and might scare them.
6. Play with your rabbit frequently
When bonding with bunnies, consistency is key. Playtime is also essential to their health and well-being. It is important that you play with your rabbit frequently because in this way they will come to associate your presence with good experiences and learn to trust you.
7. Use small pieces of treats
Looking for a fun way to entertain your bunny? Why not try using small pieces of fruits and vegetables as treats? Most bunnies love bananas, pineapple, and zucchini, so these make great rewards for playing.
You can also use pellets as treats, but be sure to only give a few at a time as they are high in calories. With a little creativity, you can turn mealtime into playtime for your furry friend!
8. Give them lots of praise
Have you ever given your bunny a lot of praise and then they just sit there looking at you? That’s because bunnies don’t really understand human language.
However, they can understand the tone of your voice, so if you sound excited when you’re praising them, they’ll know that something good is happening.
Additionally, avoid making loud noises around your bunny as this can startle them. Instead, try stroke their fur gently as this feels like grooming to them and they’ll enjoy it. If you do all these things, your bunny will be more likely to want to play with you.
Toy Ideas for A bunny
There are a lot of rabbit toys available in the market today, but I’ve compiled some of the best ideas for you nonetheless.
What are the must-have rabbit toys?
1. Toss toys for rabbits
Tossing rings for rabbits is a great way to keep them entertained. Rings are easy for rabbits to grab with their teeth, and they love to chew on them.
You can find rings made specifically for rabbits at your local pet store, or you can make your own out of household items like toilet paper rolls. To make your own rings, simply cut a toilet paper roll into thin rings and then fluff them up.
Your rabbit will have a blast grabbing and chewing on the rings, and you’ll save money by making them yourself. So next time your rabbit is looking for something to do, reach for a ring and give it a toss.
2. Obstacle courses
When it comes to obstacles courses for bunnies, there are endless possibilities. A simple setup could include a series of tunnels made from cardboard boxes or PVC pipes. More elaborate courses could include ramps, jumps, and even hurdles.
No matter what kind of course you create, your bunny is sure to have a blast exploring and playing. And who knows? They may even surprise you with their agility and athleticism. So if you’re looking for a fun way to keep your bunny entertained, an obstacle course is the way to go.
3. Games for rabbits
Rabbits love playing games you can mimic the way they forage in the wild while hanging hay baskets around their area.
Obstacle courses are also like games to bunnies. These kinds of activities will surely be fun for bunnies, especially adolescent bunnies.
4. Petting or grooming session
Grooming in the bunny’s body language means affection. When stroking or petting your bunny this feels like you are grooming them. The act actually helps calm them. This is a good bonding activity and should be preferred over carrying them.
Most bunnies do not like to be held or carried because it makes them feel trapped. Thus, it is safer if you only pet your bunnies if they feel uncomfortable being carried.
5. Sharing a treat
There’s something about bunnies that just makes us want to share our treats with them. Maybe it’s their big eyes or their soft fur. Either way, sharing a treat while playing with bunnies is a great way to bond with them.
And what’s more, they seem to enjoy it just as much as we do! Just make sure to keep an eye on them, as they can get a little bit too excited and start gobbling up the treats too fast. But all in all, sharing a treat with a bunny is a fun and rewarding experience for both of you.
6. Hidden treats
You can hide treats in animal puzzles available in the market today. Rabbits are very smart animals and it will be good mental stimulation for them to figure out these puzzles.
Besides, animal puzzles will help keep your bunny busy for a long time!
7. Rabbit mazes
Some people might think that rabbits are just cute, cuddly creatures. But rabbits are actually quite smart, and they love to play games.
One of their favorite activities is exploring a maze. rabbits will happily run through a maze made of cardboard castles or tunnels, searching for the food that’s waiting for them at the end.
Not only is this a fun way to keep your rabbit entertained, but it’s also a great way to help them stay active and healthy. So if you’re looking for a new activity for your furry friend, why not give a rabbit maze a try?
8. Reverse fetch
It’s no secret that bunnies love to play. And one of their favorite games is reverse fetch. The object of the game is simple: willow balls are hidden around the room, and the bunny has to find them and bring them back to their owner. But the fun doesn’t stop there.
Once the willow balls are collected, the bunny gets to keep them! This game is a great way to bond with your bunny and give them a chance to burn off some energy. Plus, it’s sure to put a smile on your face. So next time your bunny is looking for something to do, why not give reverse fetch a try?
9. Tug of war
Tug of war is also a great game to play with your bunny. Be careful to be gentle though because rabbit bodies are really fragile and you don’t want them getting injured
10. Training your rabbit
Want to know just how smart your bunny can be? Teach them to do tricks! Rabbits are smart pets and they can be taught different tricks.
Some rabbits can spin on command, they can jump on command, and more. Training can also keep your bunnies motivated!
Ground Rules for Playtime with Your Rabbit
There are a few ground rules you should keep in mind when playing with your bunny. First, stick to a schedule. Just like humans, rabbits need time to rest and relax, so make sure you’re not overdoing it.
Second, observe your bunny carefully. If he or she seems tired or doesn’t want to play anymore, it’s time to call it quits.
Finally, have fun! Remember, this is supposed to be enjoyable for both of you. So loosen up and let your inner child out to play.
Why it’s Important to Play with Your Bunny
If you’re thinking about getting a bunny, there are lots of things to keep in mind. They require plenty of attention, and they’re social animals, so it’s important to spend time playing with them every day.
Not only is it essential for their physical health – keeping them active and agile – but it also provides mental stimulation and helps to keep them from getting bored.
Bunnies are intelligent creatures, and they need plenty of stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
So if you’re considering adding a bunny to your family, be sure you’re prepared to give them the time and attention they need. It’s the key to keeping your bunny healthy – both physically and mentally.
Final Thoughts
Bunnies are just fun to be with! If you’re not into the active lifestyle or if you find that your schedule is too busy to accommodate the exercise needs of other pets then a pet bunny is perfect for you!
