While rabbits are generally very calm and easy to handle as pets, they do scare easily. There can be many factors behind a rabbit’s response to scratch.
The rabbit might be startled, fearful, or exhibiting aggression. So how do you go about putting your pet rabbit in its cage without getting scratched?
How to Put a Rabbit in a Cage Without Scratching Me?
To prevent your rabbit from injuring you while putting it in its cage, you need to take a few steps to make it feel comfortable and relaxed. A rabbit that is startled or not used to your presence will be wary and less inclined to be handled.
How to Get Your Rabbit Into a Cage Without Being Scratched
Even with the most trained and handled rabbit, putting it into its cage can be difficult and result in you getting scratched.
An easy solution to this is to let your rabbit enter its cage on its own.
Not only does it make them more comfortable when they can hop in themselves and means that they are less likely to thump around once the cage has been closed.
To train your rabbit to do this, you can entice them by putting treats in the cage and leaving the door open.
Remember that rabbits can slip easily on hardwood or tile flooring. If your rabbit’s cage is on slippery flooring, putting a mat in front of their cage makes it easier for them to jump inside.
It also helps with preventing them from tracking out bedding or litter when they exit the cage.
Why Rabbits Scratch
The main defense tactic for a rabbit is to flee. Rabbits are very quick and can evade prey this way.
In situations where they are not able to flee, they use their second line of defense, their claws. Hence, if you’re wondering how smart rabbits are, then this behavior maybe a sneak peek of what you can expect from them.
Rabbits not only have very powerful back legs that they can use for protection, but they also have very sharp nails on both their front and back legs.
If you pick up your rabbit incorrectly, your rabbit may scratch you deliberately or inadvertently.
If they are feeling threatened or agitated, they will try and protect themselves. If not picked up properly, rabbits flail around, resulting in you being scratched.
What if My Rabbit Does Not Go In On Its Own
If your rabbit refuses to go in by itself, you can gently lift it using proper methods to lift rabbits. The most important thing to keep in mind is that you should hold your rabbit gently, but also firmly.
You want to always have a hand on their back as well as their hindquarters. This will prevent them from flailing.
As you move with your rabbit, keep all four of its feet supported against your body. Always move at a slow pace so as not to startle your rabbit.
When both picking up your rabbit and setting it down inside its cage, always be low to the ground.
It is less alarming for a rabbit if you get closer to ground level anytime you would like to pick them up or set them down.
Once you’ve reached the cage and are ready to either place them in front of it or inside the cage, be cautious of where you set them down. Make sure the surface that you are setting them on is not slippery.
Rabbits do not do well on slick flooring, especially when being put down or when attempting to move quickly. They can injure themselves on the flooring where they cannot properly get a foothold.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Put a Rabbit into a Cage Without Scratching Me
How can I make my rabbit more comfortable?
Making your rabbit feel comfortable and secure is key to preventing it from being scratched. Avoid sudden movements when approaching your rabbit and keep a calm demeanor. This way, when you are picking up your rabbit to socialize or place it in its cage, you don’t have the risk of starting it.
Why does my rabbit thump when I put it in its cage?
When rabbits thump, it can be a sign of fear, anxiety, or annoyance. Rabbits will exhibit this behavior after being put in their cage. If their cage is set up to meet the rabbit’s needs, it can be a sign that they are annoyed to be in there, or that they were not placed inside their cage correctly.
Is my rabbit’s cage not set up properly?
Rabbits can experience anxiety and be less inclined to be put into their cage if it is not set up to accommodate your rabbit’s needs. To make your rabbit comfortable, you should provide them with water, food, bedding materials such as hay or paper, plenty of toys, and a litter box.
In Conclusion
To prevent getting scratched by your rabbit when placing it in its cage, you need to make sure that your rabbit is comfortable.
When startled or mishandled, a rabbit is more likely to use its claws as a defense.
Always be aware of the proper handling of your rabbit and make sure that it has a comfortable and engaging cage.