One of the best parts about having a rabbit is that they can be litter trained, just like a cat. With a little patience and consistency, you can teach your bunny to use a litter box and keep their space tidy. This not only makes cleanup easier for you but also keeps your rabbit healthier and happier.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to make litter training your bunny as smooth as possible.

Step 1: Choose the Right Litter Box

Skip the tiny corner boxes sold for rabbits — most bunnies don’t like them because they’re too cramped. Instead, go for a large rabbit litter box with a grate or even a cat litter box (the bigger, the better). Rabbits like to have room to turn around and stretch out while they’re using it. A grate can also help keep them clean by keeping feet and fur out of soiled litter.

Step 2: Pick a Safe Litter

Not all litters are safe for rabbits. Avoid clay, clumping, or scented cat litters — these can be dangerous if ingested and harmful to their respiratory systems. Instead, use:

• Paper-based litters (like Carefresh or Yesterday’s News)

• Kiln-dried wood pellets (like Natural Pine Pelletized Bedding, with no additives)

• Aspen shavings (never cedar or pine with strong aromatic oils)

Line the box with a thin layer of litter, just enough to absorb urine and reduce odor.

Step 3: Add Fresh Hay

Here’s the secret: rabbits love to eat while they go. Place fresh hay directly in the litter box or in a hay rack positioned above it. This encourages your bunny to hop in and use the box naturally. Just make sure the hay stays clean and dry by replenishing it often.

Step 4: Set Up the Litter Box in the Right Spot

Rabbits usually choose a corner to do their business. Watch where your bunny tends to go, and place the litter box there. If your rabbit insists on another spot, move the box to their chosen area rather than fighting it.

For free-roam rabbits, you may need multiple litter boxes in different areas at first.

Step 5: Encourage Good Habits

When you see your rabbit using the litter box, praise them gently or offer a small healthy treat. If they have an accident outside the box, don’t scold — simply clean the area thoroughly (with white vinegar and water) to remove the scent, so they’re less likely to return there.

Step 6: Keep It Clean

Rabbits are more likely to use a litter box that’s kept fresh. Remove soiled litter daily and replace hay as needed. Deep clean the box with warm water and vinegar weekly.

Step 7: Be Patient

Litter training can take days for some rabbits and weeks for others. Young rabbits may take longer since their bladder control isn’t fully developed. Consistency and patience are key — don’t give up!

A Note on Spaying & Neutering

Spaying or neutering can often make litter training easier, since it may reduce marking behaviors that come with maturity. It also has health benefits — for example, spaying eliminates the risk of uterine cancer in females, which is unfortunately quite common in rabbits. Neutering males can sometimes reduce aggression and improve bonding with other rabbits.

While not every rabbit develops these behaviors, many owners find that altering their rabbit makes training and cohabitation smoother. Ultimately, it’s a personal decision, but it’s something worth discussing with a rabbit-savvy veterinarian.

Final Thoughts

Litter training your bunny takes a little time and effort, but the payoff is huge: a cleaner home, a happier rabbit, and a stronger bond between you and your pet. Start simple, stay consistent, and celebrate the progress along the way.