|
|
Every creature on earth requires
some method of grooming to
maintain optimal physical and
mental health. Rabbits are no exception. In addition to making Pets more huggable, grooming can be quality time together and reinforces the human leadership role.
Suds Up!
Baths are not generally recommended because rabbits are typically very clean animals, but there are times in which your rabbit needs to be bathed. Prepare your bath area beforehand with all the supplies you will need at arms length, talk to your rabbit softly and calmly throughout bath time, and end bath time with a treat. Remember safety is important so keep your bathing area low to the ground to avoid falls and use a shampoo made for Pets. If your Pet appears at all stressed stop and ask your veterinarian to do the bath.
Ideally, your Pet learned that bath time is a positive experience as a baby
bunny. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. But don't despair! There are many creative ways you can help your Pet adjust to bathing.
| If at any point your rabbit wants to move away during training LET HIM! |
This can not be a forced activity it has to be on their terms. Try some of the tips below to make things a little easier and less scary for all of you!
-
Throw treats in the sink and a dry tub to help your rabbit learn they are great places to be!
-
Feed meals
in the location you will bathe
for a few days (sink or tub).
-
Let the water drip from the faucet while your Pet eats.
-
Water should be a comfortable temperature. No one wants to be bathed in ice cold water but hot water could seriously injure your Pet.
-
When your Pet is hungry take a cup and pour a tiny bit of water over their feet while giving lots of tasty treats.
-
Practice daily!
-
Give a massage but don't pour water any where else on your Pet unless he is clearly relaxed.
-
Use a damp cloth for the face.
-
You may not get to soap for a week or two! Don't rush it.
- Gather all bath items BEFORE you put your Pet in and place him in an easy to reach spot.
- Keep the first few baths as short as possible.
- If your rabbit is very relaxed with all of the above you can try a small bit of standing water, but NEVER leave your Pet unattended near or in standing water.
Take your time while training
your Pet to LOVE bath time.
Proceed slowly and watch your
Pets body language. If your Pet stops accepting treats you have moved to quickly. Find a happy note to end on and try again later.
Why do you have to brush my hair?
The question heard from Pets all around the world. Brushing can be an enjoyable time for you and your rabbit and it gives you both an opportunity to cuddle!
Your rabbit is very
clean, so clean in fact
that it is important to
keep your bunny brushed
to prevent over-grooming
and ingestion of excess
hair. Begin this as soon
as possible after
acquiring your new Pet.
Most will tolerate this
readily and this is a
good opportunity for you
to touch your bunny in
various places to slowly
help them learn to
accept this in the case
of an emergency. A
good weekly brushing
should be all your bunny needs.
(Unless you have a
long-haired rabbit, in
that case, a daily
brushing is best.)
Brushing also helps prevent mats from forming. Mats are wads of
hair that irritate your rabbit's skin and can cause infection.
All grooming should begin slowly. Never rush and be patient. Start with a tired and relaxed Pet and look for a soft bristled brush to gently brush your Pets mane. Keep treats by your side and alternate treats with brushing as your Pet allows. Keep sessions short and sweet until your Pet looks forward to this relaxing time with you.
Who doesn't love a nice manicure?
Although nail trimming may never make David Lettermen's "Top Ten List of Favorite Things" for your bunny it doesn't need to be a dreaded event for you both. Remember Dr. Rolan Tripp's Rule of Thumb, "When it comes to nail trimming it doesn't have to hurt to be good!"
Rabbit nails can grow into the paw pad and may get caught on objects if not kept trimmed and short.
Nail trimming can be a stressful experience but it doesn't have to be if you start preparing for this task early in the life of your rabbit. The nails of rabbits grow quickly and keeping their nails trimmed is a very important aspect of ownership. If this is not done regularly, you will see long nails curling over themselves which can cause extreme pain. Always work quickly and enlist the help of another person to hold your Pet while you cut their nails.
Keep styptic powder or cornstarch handy in case you accidentally cut into the quick. Keep nails trimmed and neat- your bunny will thank you for it! Make sure to praise your rabbit for good nail trimming behaviors.
Here are a few more tips to get you started!
-
Before you trim a single nail, introduce your bunny to daily paw holding and gentle massage.
-
 Start when your bunny is sleepy or very relaxed. Give treats to make it a fun experience.
-
Over time, you will be able to wiggle each nail.
-
Avoid associating nail trims with pain. Take just the tip off of the nail.
-
In the beginning only trim one nail each day.
-
Use a nail file on one toe nail each day as well. Make sure you praise your rabbit and offer treats for cooperation. If your Pet resists, stop, and start another day going more slowly.
-
If you accidentally cut or file too much of the nail, you will have a hard time convincing your rabbit to allow you to do this again. The quick is the pink, living tissue inside the nail closet to the paw. It HURTS your bunny if you cut it.
Have you been practicing gentling exercises with your Pet? If so, it will make trimming the nails so much easier.
|
Print
Improving Relationships
between People and Pets!