Litter Training
Litter training for most bunnies is not difficult. That is usually the first thing we are asked when a new visitor comes to our home: “Is your bunny litter trained?”. They always seem amazed when we explain that litter training is about as natural to a bunny as it is to a cat.
To litter train your rabbit the number one best thing you can do is get a cage big enough to hold a litter box. Bunnies love having a litter box in their cage because rabbits in the wild instinctively create designated latrines for their herd, which also serves as a boundary line.
Use recycled or pulp paper (some newspapers are not good because the ink comes off on the fur), Aspen litter, or something similar because rabbits will sometimes eat on the litter so these substances are safe (we do not recommend pine or cedar because too dusty, or corn cob bedding which tends to mold, or anything clay-like used for cats that can clump up). And since rabbits like to excrete while they graze it is important that you put hay in the litter box for them to munch on. Make sure the litter box is large enough for your bunny to enjoy hanging out in it, nibbling on hay, and even stretching out to just enter into a state of repose. Small toys inside the box can sometimes be a good idea also. Be sure to change the litter box every other day or so, and clean the container once a week with a mild soap or white vinegar.
The switch from the cage litter box to the litter box in their play area is a natural one. In the beginning stages it is a good idea to place two or three litter boxes around the room. If you see that your bunny likes to drop pellets in a particular spot, that is his way of telling you where he wants the litter box to be. After a time you can remove the litter boxes that are not being used.
At first you want to make a fuss over your bunny when he gets into the litter box on his own. Praise your bunny - give it a special treat, etc. For those who are really into having a well-trained rabbit (like circus act bunnies) this is a good place to begin your program. Litter training makes for a healthier and happier bunny rabbit, and a cleaner house for you. Use litter boxes with high sides so your bunny has to hop into it, thus making sure he gets some added exercise (this also makes for less litter material getting on the floor)..jpg)
Of all our bunnies, only one never got the litter box training down pat. And even the others that did, they would still leave us some “presents” every so often (fecal pellets are used by rabbits in the wild to communicate and to mark trails by the scent they leave).
If you have rescued a rabbit that is older and not litter trained, it can still be trained to do so. Do it the same way - just be patient and consistent.
Make litter training a fun part of bonding with your furry little friend. A few weeks of disciplined training on your part will make for a harmonious relationship that will last a lifetime (your bunny's, that is). And when friends and guests visit and seem amazed at the results of your litter training, be sure to tell them there is no truth to the phrase “dumb bunny”, because bunnies are smart and clever (sometimes too clever - ha ha). Litter training is an area in which most all bunnies shine if properly instructed and encouraged. Good luck! 
 
 
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