When we think about keeping our rabbits healthy, most of us jump straight to diet, housing, and regular check-ups. But there’s another vital ingredient for their long-term happiness and health in rabbits: enrichment.
In simple terms, enrichment means making your rabbit’s environment more engaging – giving them opportunities to move, explore and play. It’s not just about keeping them entertained; it’s about supporting their physical and emotional wellbeing.
What does rabbit enrichment actually mean?
Enrichment includes everything from incorporating tunnels and platforms to digging areas, toys, and puzzle feeders into their environment. It’s also about providing companionship, either from another rabbit (ideally neutered and bonded) or, in the case of solo rabbits, lots of positive human interaction.
The goal is to give your rabbits more chances to express their natural behaviours: digging, foraging, hiding, running, grooming and relaxing. A well-enriched environment can reduce stress, prevent behavioural issues, and promote better health overall.
Why is enrichment so important for rabbits?
Rabbits are smart, curious, and highly social creatures. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, they can become bored, lonely, or even depressed. In some cases, lack of enrichment can contribute to health issues such as obesity, digestive problems, and stress-related behaviours.
Some warning signs your rabbit might not be getting enough stimulation include:
- Lethargy or not moving around much
- Dull coat and low grooming
- Repetitive behaviours like bar chewing or fur plucking
- Aggression or withdrawal
- Overeating or loss of appetite
If you notice any of these changes, always speak to a vet to rule out illness. But also take a close look at your rabbit’s environment – there could be small things you could incorporate to enhance their sense of enrichment.
Easy ways to enrich your rabbit’s life
Enrichment doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Here are some simple ways to upgrade your rabbit’s daily routine:
- Space to move
Rabbits need room to run, stretch, hop and stand fully upright. Whether your bunny lives indoors or outdoors, make sure their enclosure includes both a secure shelter and a spacious run that’s permanently connected so they can move freely between the two. - Hiding spots and platforms
Give your rabbits options to hide, climb, and rest. Cardboard boxes, tunnels, low platforms and wooden shelters all add interest and make them feel safe. - Foraging fun
Instead of serving all their food in a bowl, scatter feed, use hay-stuffed tubes, or try simple puzzle feeders made from toilet rolls or cardboard boxes. Rabbits are natural foragers, and they love working for their food. - Rotate their toys
Try rotating your rabbit’s toys every few days to keep things fresh and to make sure they don’t get bored. You can use safe chew toys, treat balls, or even homemade enrichment items like paper bags filled with hay. - Companionship
Companionship is extremely important and rabbits thrive with the company of their own kind. If your bunny doesn’t have a bonded friend, you’ll need to step in with plenty of gentle handling, social time, and interaction to prevent loneliness.
A few enrichment safety tips
- Introduce slowly: New items can be exciting or overwhelming. Monitor your rabbits’ reactions when you offer something new.
- Don’t overcrowd: Enrichment should enhance their space, not clutter it. Leave room for free movement and exercise.
- Provide choice: Always give your rabbits the option to hide, retreat, or interact on their own terms.
- Avoid unsafe materials: Soft furnishings like towels or rugs should only be used under supervision as some rabbits chew or ingest them, which can cause serious digestive issues.
- Stick to a routine: Rabbits love predictability. Try to offer enrichment (toys, food puzzles, interaction) at the same times each day to avoid stress.
Just like us, rabbits need variety, stimulation and fun to stay happy. Enrichment is a key part of their care – and it’s something every rabbit owner can do more of, regardless of space or budget.
If you’re ever unsure whether your rabbit’s environment is meeting their needs, or you’ve noticed changes in their behaviour, our PawSquad team is here to help. We’re available 24/7 to talk through your concerns from the comfort of your own home.