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They're both furry and sweet...they should be the best of friends. Right? Wrong! I have a cat and a rabbit, both with charming little personalities, quirks beyond the wildest stretch of the imagination, and stubborn streaks like you wouldn't believe. In my experience, here is the best way to introduce your little critters.

First of all, if one has been around longer than the other, realize that he or she may feel a dominance toward the other. This isn't abnormal so don't lack patience or get frustrated. Choose a room that both are not accustomed too. Do not choose a room where the litter box is located, or where your cage is for your rabbit.

If you are a cat owner, I am sure you can anticipate your cats schedule. My cat is energetic in the morning and downright spastic at night running from one end of the house to the other, and sometimes attacking my feet as I pass. He is lazy midafternoon. Gage your cats internal clock and choose a time when he or she is sleepy and more accommodating to introduce him or her to your new rabbit.

Introduce them slowly and allow them to sniff each other. NEVER allow your pets to be alone together unless you are absolutely certain one will not hurt the other. Keep bringing them together for supervised visits. You may see your cat start to nip or bite the rabbit or vice versa. Gently discourage this behavior.

When the two start to familiarize themselves with each other, allow them to roam into a new room. Be careful though, cats are natural predators and depending on the size of your rabbit can be lethal. Again, keep close supervision.

My cat and rabbit are close friends and run about the house together in harmony now. I have a larger rabbit and often times it is she chasing the cat around. The two are pals and like to wrestle around, but I still only allow them to roam free when I am present. If their play gets too rough, it is I that steps in and blows the whistle.

I have a little farm in my apartment. Whenever you allow your animals to roam free, make sure it is supervised, and in the case of rabbits, be especially careful around wires. If it isn't her chasing the cat, it's her chasing the nearest live wire.

Have fun with your cat and rabbit. Be patient.

Learn more about this author, Molly Carter.
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