Rabbits may become destructive or aggressive when stressed or fearful, so it is important they have enough space, and hiding places that they can retreat to. Providing a safe space for your rabbits can also prevent them from chewing items that they shouldn’t, especially when you are not home or cannot monitor them.

Rabbits are prey species and can be easily startled. Give them safe places to hide and slowly bond with them to help them feel safe with you.

When you set up your rabbit’s enclosure, choose surfaces and bedding that are easy to clean and rabbit safe.

If your rabbit bites when you are cleaning or moving things in their space, guide them to a different area, a hiding place, or provide them with a snack or toy to interact with while you’re cleaning.

Check out our guide to rabbit housing for tips on setting up their enclosure.

Providing enrichment for your rabbit helps with both their physical and mental health, allowing them to express natural behaviours and reduce unwanted ones.

Rabbits should be provided rabbit-safe toys to chew – which is also necessary to keep their teeth trimmed – as well as items that allow them to dig, burrow and forage. Find rabbit toys and enrichment supplies at Bingo’s Pet Shop, located at EHS.

Check out our Rabbit Enrichment Guide for ideas.

If your rabbit is tempted by items, block their access to those items. Common items that rabbits chew which may need to be blocked include:

• Electrical cords: Use heavy-duty cord covers or place furniture so it blocks access to the cords.
• Baseboards: Cover them with plastic guards or pieces of wood that are safe for them to chew
• Furniture: Use split flex tubing over table or chair legs, or plastic couch blockers to stop them from going underneath furniture.

Where you cannot protect the item or furniture, block them from the space with a baby gate or puppy pen. Make sure it is tall enough that your rabbit can’t jump over it.

See the Best Friends Guide to Bunny-Proofing.

Rabbits are social creatures, and their destructive behaviour might be a result of them being bored.

Rabbits are generally happier when living with another rabbit, so if they are currently alone consider bonding them to another rabbit.

View our guide to rabbit introductions and bonding for tips to prepare for getting a second bunny.

A sudden change in behaviour can be a sign of a health issue or pain. If your rabbit’s behaviour has recently changed, take them to your vet.

You can find a veterinary clinic in your area using the ABVMA Directory. Make sure the veterinarian is comfortable with rabbits/small animals.