by Stacy Kaaki

Created on: January 28, 2009

Rabbits are naturally curious and playful creatures. Given the opportunity, they will play with toys, as well as common household items. It is important to give your pet rabbit an outlet for its energy, and to combat boredom. Pet supply stores and internet sites are both resources for rabbit toys; however, you may find that most of what is available are sugary treats or toys that are overly expensive, considering that your rabbit's main goal in playing with the toys will be the total destruction of them!

An alternative to commercially available toys and treats is to use common household items as toys, or to use them in the construction of safe toys for your pet.

Many rabbit breeders use empty soda cans placed in the cage. Soda cans are readily available, and finding enough for an entire rabbitry is possible. They make great toss toys. The rabbits also like to roll them underneath their front legs, making quite a racket.

Empty paper towel and toilet paper rolls with all of the paper removed also make great toss toys, and are harmless if ingested. These don't last very long, because the rabbit will inevitably dunk it in the water bowl, after which it needs to be replaced. Like soda cans, these are usually readily available and a steady supply is normal in an average household.

Wooden blocks, made from untreated wood, can be strung together with wire and hung from the top of the cage. You can add Popsicle sticks or wooden clothespins for variety in shape and texture. Adding a little bell to the bottom will create a delightful sound that your bunny will enjoy as it bats at the toy.

Empty cereal boxes can be stuffed with Timothy Hay, as can paper lunch sacks. The rabbits will enjoy exploring these items and finding a tasty treat inside. Most household boxes can be used for this, as long as they do not have any trace of chemicals. If the box previously had people food in it, it's probably safe for the rabbit.

Old phonebooks are a great source of shredding material. Rabbits will make a great mess while engaging in this activity, but, oh, the fun!

Baby rattles and keys can also be enjoyed by rabbits. Most baby toys are made to withstand rough play, and do not contain loose parts. Always inspect the toys for plastic that has been chewed through, and remove any items that are damaged.

An untreated garden can also be a source of items for the bunny to enjoy. Branches from a rose bush are a favorite rabbit chew, as long as there are no chemicals used. Apple wood twigs are also good chew toys, and help to wear the rabbit's teeth down.

With a little imagination and spare time, making rabbit toys for your pet rabbit will bring you and your rabbit immense joy.

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