Before you let your bunny roam freely in your yard it's important to do some bunny proofing first. Bunnies are curious creatures and can find their way into trouble. In this guide we show you how to do a quick sweep of your garden and what to watch out for that may be dangerous.
We show you how to fully bunny proof the perimeter of avoid escapes
Bunnies are also excellent diggers and can easily find their way out from under a fence so we also show you how to fully fence off the perimeter to avoid escapes. Finally, we discuss the dangers and solutions for keeping your bunnies safe from wild as well as domestic predators.
There can be a lot of things to keep in mind so follow this practical guide to learn step by step how to do all the essential bunny proofing jobs in your yard.
How do I bunny proof my yard?
Make sure all chemical such as fertilizers, weed killers, insecticides or cleaning agents are stored out of reach
Put away anything that could be knocked over and fall on your bunny like a shovel or bicycle
Make sure watering trays cannot be drank from as they can be contaminated with plant food
Check the perimeter fencing, hedges and gates regularly for escape routes.
How to protect your bunny from predators in your yard
If you let a house bunny roam in your yard there is always the danger of attack from wild and domestic predators. If you are worried about this, pet stores sell many types of runs and pens you can purchase.
Make sure they offer protection from the top and are secured to the ground. Predators like foxes can easily lift and get under a light, wooden framed bunny run or even chew through thin chicken wire.
How to check your yard is safe for your bunny
Every time you let your bunny out do a quick sweep to check things through. Look for anything that could be knocked over and fall on your bunny which could hurt it. Store away anything that is stacked up or leaning against a wall like a broom or shovel.
Also be careful not to leave bicycles lent up against a wall as bunnies can become entangled in the chain or even knock it over causing it to fall on them.
Make sure all chemicals such as fertilizers, weed killers, insecticides or cleaning agents are stored out of reach on a high shelf or in a locked cupboard.
They are not only harmful if your bunny was to accidentally eat them, they may also cause harm if they get them on their fur.
The water as it can be contaminated with plant food which could be harmful to your bunny if they try and drink it.
If you water your plants from the base, make sure the watering trays can't be reached.
How to check your yard for possible bunny escape routes
The perimeter of your yard will constantly be tested by your exploring bunny. They can crawl through surprisingly small gaps and with a bit of digging and chewing they can quickly open a space big enough to squeeze through. Here are a few things to check to make sure you have bunny proofed all the escape routes.
Don't take any chances, even if your fence goes down to the ground it's best to dig along the edge and bury some bricks or lengths of wood along the edge.
If you have a hedge then you will need to add some additional reinforcement. You can make it escape proof with some wire mesh, it is best to bury this into the ground so it cannot be undermined. If your bunny starts to excavate a spot try laying a paving stone over the area can stop it.
Gates often have a space underneath them which although seems small is big enough for a bunny to crawl under. Block off any spaces under or around the gate.
If the gate does not close on its own, fit a self-closing mechanism to make sure it keeps shut.
Bunnies like to try just about anything at least once to see if it can be eaten. Sharp teeth can strip bark from trees or shrubs.
Flower beds can make a tasty treat and soil can be dug up and young roots eaten. If you have a flower bed or garden area with vegetables in it, you will need to protect these areas to stop your bunny helping themselves.
Just about the only way you can keep your bunny out is to fence an area in or fence off a smaller area for your bunny to play in. A pet pen can be used on its own or broken up to make a fence.
If you have any trees that overhang your garden it is worth considering that some trees have berries or leaves that may be toxic that could fall into your yard. Make sure you clear these away.
Fencing products we recommend for blocking off escape routes
Heavy duty foldable pen
Pet pen
What to do if you think your bunny has eaten a toxic plant in your yard
Firstly don't panic, many plants in your yard that are listed as poisonous to rabbits can be consumed in small amounts, however, never wait if you think there is a problem, contact a vet straight away for help.
Its best to work out what the plant is and how much your bunny has eaten then check the ASPCA toxic plants list for more information.
Signs that your bunny has eaten something include a loss in appetite, seizures, lethargy, hunching, problems breathing, discharge from nose, gassy and painful abdomen.
