How to Litter Train Your Rabbit

Congratulations on getting your new pet rabbit! Your bunny will add lots of joy to your life. But one thing that's not on anyone's "happy list" is cleaning up messes — even in the habitat. We've got some good news for you: Your rabbit can be litter-trained. Yes, just like cats, rabbits can be house-trained. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about potty training a rabbit and a few tips to make the litter training journey go as smoothly as possible. 

What type of litter box does your rabbit need?

Set your pet rabbit up for success by choosing a litter box big enough for your rabbit. The box should be easy to get into while also being big enough for your rabbit to move around in. If the box feels cramped to your bun, it may get ignored.

Consider a litter box like the Kaytee Hi-Corner Litter Pan. This pan fits easily into small animal habitats but has elevated corners to keep things cleaner and tidier.

Where to Put the Litter Box

Before you hop into potty training your bunny, watch where he uses the bathroom in the habitat. Most likely, you'll see your rabbit using the same corner of his home. Place the litter box in your rabbit's chosen corner. Keeping with the familiar location will help set your rabbit up for litter training success.

Place droppings you find outside the box inside the litter box to help your pet learn where to use the bathroom. Be sure to remove the soiled bedding when your pet uses the bathroom outside of the litter box to help redirect him to the proper location.

If you plan to let your rabbit roam freely in your home or have playtime outside the habitat, be sure you place litter boxes strategically in the accessible area. The larger the area your bun has access to, the more litter boxes you want.

Tip: Some rabbits are hesitant to use a litter box if it's uncovered or exposed. Place the litter box in an enclosed box or hideout, or fasten a hammock or blanket to drape over the litter box to create a private, safer spot for your bun to use the bathroom. This may increase the likelihood that your rabbit will use the litter box.

Choose the Right Type of Litter

When looking for the best type of litter for your rabbit, choose a different substrate from the bedding you use in the habitat. This will help separate the two areas by sight, smell, and texture.

Some options to consider include:

Note: Do not use cat litter in your rabbit's litter box. The silica in kitty litter can put your pet at risk for respiratory issues, and clumping or clay litter can cause digestion or respiratory concerns as well.

Make Litter Training Your Rabbit a Success

Just like you reward yourself with a treat after a job well done, rewards and praise are good motivators for your pet bun. Be consistent. Every time your pet uses the bathroom in the litter box, give him a special treat and shower him with praise.

It's important to remember that scolding your pet doesn't work. Harsh or loud tones can put a damper on your progress. Focus on the good things so your pet associates treats with doing the right thing. Plus it helps build your bond.

Another thing you can do to help make litter training a success is to keep the litter box clean. It's important to help your pet keep a sanitary environment. Every day, spot clean the litter box by removing the visible excrement. Every week, dispose the litter substrate and wash the litter box with soap and water and dry the box before replacing it in the habitat with fresh litter.

Litter Training Your Pet Rabbit Takes Time

Successfully litter training your rabbit is possible with patience and consistency. Keeping the litter box clean and rewarding your pet with treats and praise goes a long way to help reinforce the desired behavior. Plus, litter training is a great way to strengthen your bond with your bun. And creating more happy memories with your rabbit is fun for everyone.

Ready to learn about choosing the right bedding for your pet rabbit? Check out Best Bedding for Pet Rabbits for all the details.