Before a rabbit gets free run of any room, cover every electrical cord, block the gaps they can squeeze into, and move anything you would mind losing to teeth. Chewing is not naughtiness, it is how a rabbit explores.
Why this matters
A rabbit's teeth never stop growing, so chewing is a lifelong need, not a phase. An exposed cord is the single most common home hazard: a bite can burn their mouth or worse. Giving them safe things to chew (untreated wood, hay, cardboard) redirects the urge instead of fighting it.
Step by step
- Cover or lift every cord and cable out of reach (cord protectors or flexible tubing work well).
- Block gaps behind and under furniture and appliances where a rabbit can get stuck.
- Move toxic houseplants out of reach, and check anything green against our toxic-plant list.
- Protect baseboards and furniture legs they can reach, or fence off the tempting corner.
- Put out safe chew options (untreated willow, apple sticks, plain cardboard) so the urge has somewhere to go.
What to watch for
- Frayed cords or fresh gnaw marks that show a new favourite spot
- A rabbit gone quiet in a hidden gap (they can wedge themselves in)
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth after chewing something they shouldn't
When to see a vet
If your rabbit bites into a cord or swallows something they shouldn't and then seems off, stops eating, or paws at their mouth, call your exotic vet the same day.
Sources: Rabbit.org Foundation · Rabbit.org Foundation