Rabbit Behaviour & Enrichment Guide

1. What it is and what it covers

Rabbit behaviour and enrichment are about allowing rabbits^★ to express natural behaviours such as foraging, digging, chewing, hiding, exploring and social interaction.

2. Key facts and specifications

RSPCA recommends opportunities for exercise, enrichment and companionship. Safe toys, cardboard, hay-based foraging and hiding places can provide stimulation.

3. Practical guidance

Rotate safe enrichment and use food to encourage foraging. Allow rabbits to approach people voluntarily and provide escape spaces.

4. Suitability, choices and limitations

Some rabbits are more confident or active than others. Enrichment should be adjusted to the individual and should not replace sufficient living space or rabbit companionship.

5. UK-specific considerations

Use RSPCA behaviour and welfare guidance and seek specialist advice for persistent aggression, fear or abnormal behaviour.

6. Safety, risks and cautions

Avoid toxic materials, unsafe wires, small swallowable parts and forced interactions. Supervise introductions to other animals.

7. Current sources and research

The current British Rabbit Council resource was used for breed terminology, breed-group context and current UK rabbit-breed information. Current RSPCA guidance was used for the welfare baseline covering diet, housing, companionship, enrichment and health.