How To Teach Kids To Behave With a Rabbit

Rabbit rule number one is: “Pet her, but don’t pick her up.” Kids love the idea of lugging a pet around in their arms, but rabbits don’t like being carried. If scared, they may scratch or bite, and, if dropped, they could get hurt.

When the rabbit first comes home, introduce her to your children while she’s in her cage. Make sure there’s plenty of space in the cage for the rabbit to beat a retreat into her box or hiding place whenever she feels like it.

Show your kids how to talk to the rabbit in quiet “indoor” voices, so she’ll stay calm.

Have your children offer the bunny small amounts of leafy greens or carrots as a getting-acquainted trick. Remind them not to poke their fingers into the cage or they may get nipped.

To let the bunny out of her cage around children, place the cage in a room with a door you can close. Or pen off an area around the cage with a puppy gate.

Have your children sit on the floor before you let the rabbit out. Leave the cage door open so she can get back inside whenever she feels like it.

Sitting on the floor with your children, watch the rabbit as she explores her new surroundings. Try to keep everyone relaxed. Point out how much happier the rabbit feels when no one is chasing or following her.

If you or the kids want, you can hold small bunny treats to lure the rabbit closer.

When the rabbit approaches, show your children the best way to pet a rabbit—gentle stroking on her head and ears. Remind them of the cardinal rule: “Pet her, but don’t pick her up.”

If and when the rabbit wants to go back into her cage for some time out, let her. Tell the kids that she needs to decide for herself when she’s had enough playtime.

Repeat the bunny bonding sessions once or twice daily, until everyone is comfortable. Most rabbits need at least 3 or 4 hours of daily exercise outside their cages—so your kids will have plenty of chances to interact with their new bunny buddy!