Own Rabbits and Guinea Pigs? Try Alpha Vets’ Enrichment Ideas
January 3, 2025
Whether you’ve recently got a new rabbit or guinea pig or are looking for ways to enhance your existing pets’ lives, Alpha Vets know that providing enrichment plays a big part in keeping pets happy and healthy.
These social and curious animals thrive when they have opportunities to play, explore, and express natural behaviours. Our team in Teddington have put together these top tips to help you enhance their environment and ensure they lead fulfilling lives.
If you have any questions about enrichment or would like a health check for your pet, don’t hesitate to contact our vet practice in Teddington on 0208 943 2303.
10 Enrichment Tips for Rabbits and Guinea Pigs
As suggested by our experienced team at Alpha Vets:
- Digging Boxes: Fill a box with soil or shredded paper and hay for rabbits to dig through, allowing them to exercise natural behaviours.
- Chew Toys: Offer untreated wooden toys, willow balls, or safe chew sticks to prevent boredom and keep teeth healthy.
- Hideouts: Make hiding spots out of cardboard boxes or plastic tunnels.
- Hay All Day: Fill paper bags with hay for all-day grazing and good dental care.
- DIY Treat Tubes: Stuff toilet roll tubes with hay and veggie treats.
- Foraging Boxes: Hide their favourite veggies or pellets in hay for them to find.
- Food Puzzles: These encourage problem-solving and provide mental stimulation.
- Mini Obstacle Course: Create a low impact course with objects to climb on, walk under, go around and through; take it gentle and steady, and guide your pets through with a treat.
- Pet Pals: Rabbits and guinea pigs are social animals who should live with their own kind but ensure proper introductions as not all will get on – and don’t forget the neutering!
- Human Bonding: Daily interaction with you will help your pet feel secure and will strengthen your bond.
If you’re unsure how to get started with enrichment or have any concerns about your pet’s behaviour, our small animal team Alpha Vets are here to help.
Our team at Alpha Vets also share that rabbits and guinea pigs will need a spacious and safe home to house all of their enrichment activities and give them a sense of calm and security.
For both rabbits and guinea pigs, their enclosures should be spacious enough to allow natural movements, like hopping for rabbits or scurrying for guinea pigs. Outdoor hutches must be weatherproof, and all enclosures should have access to a run for exercise. Always ensure their living spaces are predator-proof and well-ventilated.
If you have any questions about housing or caring for small pets or would like to book a health check at our vet practice in Teddington, we’ll be happy to help.
Call Alpha Vets on 0208 943 2303.
