How to Change the Bedding and Flooring of a Rabbit Cage

Maintaining a clean and comfortable environment for your rabbit is essential for their health and well-being. Regularly changing the bedding and flooring of your rabbit’s cage helps prevent odors, reduces the risk of infections, and ensures a cozy space for your bunny. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to change the bedding and flooring of a rabbit cage.

Materials Needed

• Fresh bedding (e.g., paper-based bedding, straw, hay, or aspen shavings)
• Cage cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar
• Clean cloths or paper towels
• Trash bag
• Gloves (optional)
• Dustpan and brush or a small vacuum
• Replacement flooring material (if needed)

Step-by-Step Guide

 Prepare the Area

1. Gather Supplies: Ensure you have all necessary supplies within reach before you begin.
2. Find a Safe Space for Your Rabbit: Place your rabbit in a safe, temporary area while you clean the cage. This could be a playpen, another enclosure, or a rabbit-proofed room.

Remove the Rabbit and Cage Accessories

1. Remove the Rabbit: Gently take your rabbit out of the cage and place them in the temporary area.
2. Take Out Accessories: Remove all cage accessories, such as food and water dishes, toys, hideaways, and litter boxes.

Remove Old Bedding and Flooring

1. Dispose of Old Bedding: Wearing gloves if desired, scoop out and dispose of the old bedding into a trash bag. Use a dustpan and brush or a small vacuum to collect smaller pieces.
2. Check Flooring Material: If the flooring material is removable and needs replacing, take it out and dispose of or clean it as needed.

“While wire flooring allows for good ventilation and easy cleaning, it can be hard on your rabbit’s feet and lead to sore hocks. If using wire flooring, provide solid surfaces or resting mats for your rabbit to prevent foot injuries.” – says Wassam while discussing bedding and flooring types for indoor rabbit housing in Bunny Vault

Clean the Cage

1. Wipe Down the Cage: Use a cage cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to wipe down the entire cage, including the sides, floor, and any surfaces. This helps remove urine stains, odors, and bacteria.
2. Rinse and Dry: If using a cleaning solution, ensure you rinse it off thoroughly with water and dry the cage completely before adding new bedding.

Step 5: Add New Flooring (if applicable)

1. Install New Flooring Material: If you are replacing the flooring material, install it now. Ensure it fits snugly and covers the entire floor area to provide a comfortable surface for your rabbit.

Add Fresh Bedding

1. Layer the Bedding: Spread a layer of fresh bedding evenly across the floor of the cage. The thickness of the bedding layer depends on the type of bedding used and your rabbit’s preferences. Generally, a 1-2 inch layer is sufficient.
2. Ensure Comfort: Ensure the bedding provides a soft and comfortable surface for your rabbit to lie on. It should also be absorbent to help manage odors and moisture.

 Replace Cage Accessories

1. Clean Accessories: Before returning them to the cage, clean the food and water dishes, toys, hideaways, and litter boxes with water and a mild detergent. Rinse and dry them thoroughly.
2. Arrange the Accessories: Place the clean accessories back into the cage, arranging them in a way that maximizes space and accessibility for your rabbit.
3. Inspect the Cage: Double-check the cage to ensure everything is clean, dry, and properly arranged.
4. Place Your Rabbit Back: Gently return your rabbit to their freshly cleaned cage, providing a treat or some gentle petting to help them feel comfortable in their refreshed environment.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Cage

• Regular Spot Cleaning: Perform daily spot cleaning to remove soiled bedding, feces, and uneaten food. This helps maintain a cleaner environment between full bedding changes.
• Weekly Full Cleanings: Aim to fully change the bedding and clean the cage at least once a week. More frequent cleanings may be necessary for larger rabbits or multiple rabbits.
• Use Absorbent Bedding: Choose absorbent bedding materials that help control odors and moisture. Avoid using cedar or pine shavings, as they can release harmful fumes.
• Provide a Litter Box: Train your rabbit to use a litter box to make cleaning easier and keep the rest of the cage cleaner for longer.