If you’ve seen your bunny zoom around or toss things with its teeth, you know rabbits love to play. Toys aren’t extras; they’re important for keeping your rabbit happy and healthy. The right toys keep your bunny's mind busy. They prevent boredom and support natural behaviors like chewing and digging. Still, not every toy is safe or interesting for rabbits.
So, what kind of toys do rabbits actually like? Let’s break it down.
1. Toys They Can Chew: Chewing is a natural instinct for rabbits, and it helps keep their teeth healthy. That’s why chew toys are some of the best rabbit toys you can offer. Look for untreated wood blocks, willow sticks, apple branches, or loofah chews. These are safe bunny toys that give your rabbit something to gnaw on to meet their chewing instincts.
2. Toys They Can Toss and Throw: Many rabbits like toys they can grab with their teeth and toss around. Good toss toys are light. They’re made from natural materials. These include untreated wood, loofah, rattan balls, timothy hay, and forage mixes. These toys let your rabbit chew and toss, like they would in the wild.
3. Toys That Involve Digging and Shredding: Digging is another instinct rabbits can’t ignore. If they don’t have a place to dig, your carpet might become their target. Shreddable paper toys, cardboard boxes filled with hay, and digging boxes filled with paper strips offer safe and enjoyable ways to channel this energy.
4. Foraging Toys for Mental Stimulation: Bunnies are smart and love a challenge. Foraging toys make them work a little to earn their favorite treats. This provides great bunny enrichment. Give your bunny puzzle feeders and treat balls that have hidden snacks inside. These toys keep your rabbit mentally engaged and slow down fast eaters.
5. Hideouts and Tunnels: Rabbits naturally look for safe places to hide. Safe wood hideouts and tunnels help your bunny feel secure. They also encourage exploration. These aren’t just shelters; they’re also fun for rabbits who like to run in and out or nap in cozy spots.
Tips for Choosing Safe Bunny Toys
- Avoid toxic materials. Ensure that you use untreated wood that is free of harmful chemicals.
- Skip soft plastics or painted items. These can be dangerous if ingested.
- Rotate toys. Just like kids, rabbits can get bored. Swap toys in and out to keep things fresh.
- Observe your rabbit. Every bunny has its own preferences; some love to chew, while others prefer tossing or digging.
Conclusion
The best rabbit toys do more than entertain. They help your bunnies’ natural behaviors and support their well-being. From chew sticks to tunnels, safe bunny toys make a huge difference in your rabbit’s daily life. Offering a mix of chewing, digging, tossing, and foraging toys keeps your rabbit busy. It also helps them live a healthier, happier life.
