Bunny issues

We will be updating this as we go. 

 

The longer we are here the longer this will get so please read through all of it to see if it helps you!

We Got Our Bunny As a Baby and Now They’ve Gone Wild

 

 

If your once-sweet bunny has suddenly turned into a zooming, grunting, nipping ball of chaos… they’ve probably hit puberty.

 

Most rabbits reach sexual maturity between 3–6 months old, and with it comes a burst of territorial, hormonal behavior that can feel like your bunny has a whole new personality. But don’t worry—it’s normal, and it’s manageable.

 

 

 

 

What to do:

 

 

1. Get a vet check-up.

Before assuming it’s just puberty, rule out medical issues like pain, illness, or injury that could cause aggression or erratic behavior.

 

Here are some rabbit-savvy vets in the Greater Richmond, VA area:

 

Metro Richmond Area:

 

Wellesley Animal Hospital – Henrico, VA

River City Veterinary Hospital – Midlothian, VA

Helping Hands (for low-cost surgery) – Richmond, VA

John Rolfe Animal Hospital – Henrico, VA

West End Veterinary Hospital – Richmond, VA

Broad Street Veterinary Hospital – Richmond, VA

Varina Veterinary Clinic – Henrico, VA

 

 

Surrounding Areas:

 

New Kent Veterinary Hospital – New Kent, VA

Anderson’s Corner Animal Hospital – Toano, VA

Lynchburg Exotic Veterinary House Calls – Lynchburg, VA

Lovingkindness Veterinary Care (mobile vet) – Based in Harrisonburg, VA

VCA Boulevard Animal Hospital – Newport News, VA

Princess Anne Veterinary Hospital – Virginia Beach, VA

 

 

 

 

2. Consider spaying or neutering.

Hormones can make rabbits territorial, aggressive, or hard to litter train. Fixing often improves these behaviors dramatically—plus, it prevents unwanted litters and some health issues.

 

3. Troubleshoot behavior with trusted resources:

 

House Rabbit Society: Behavior FAQs

My House Rabbit: Bunny Behavior Guide

Bunspace Forum (for real owner advice)

The Bunny Lady: YouTube Channel on Rabbit Training

 

 

 

 

Puberty is a wild ride—but it doesn’t last forever. With a little support and care, your rabbit can grow into a loving, well-behaved companion.

 

 

My Apartment Complex Won't Allow Me to Keep my Rabbit- what should I do ?

First and foremost: always check your lease. Some leases specifically list allowed or prohibited animals, and rabbits are often forgotten in the fine print—sometimes allowed under “small pets,” and sometimes excluded altogether.

 

While we’re not lawyers and cannot provide legal advice, we can share what has worked for others in similar situations:

 

 

 

 

Options to Explore:

 

 

1. Ask for an Exception.

Some tenants have had success talking directly with their property manager or landlord. If your rabbit is quiet, litter-trained, and kept indoors, emphasize that they’re less disruptive than many approved pets. Photos of your bunny’s clean setup can help make your case.

 

2. Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Status.

In some cases, people have qualified for a rabbit to be recognized as an emotional support animal (ESA). When done properly through a licensed mental health professional, an ESA letter can give you certain housing rights under the Fair Housing Act.

However, proceed with caution—we’re not providing legal advice, and every situation is different. Improper ESA claims or unreliable online certifications can hurt your case. If you’re considering this route, consult a licensed professional.

 

3. Check for Loopholes or Outdated Rules.

Some leases don’t mention rabbits at all—or only restrict dogs and cats. Others may allow “caged pets,” which can include rabbits (though we always recommend free-roam setups when possible).

 

4. Rehome Temporarily with a Friend or Family Member.

If you’re in a time crunch and can’t keep your bunny where you are, consider asking a trusted friend or family member to foster temporarily while you find a long-term solution.

 

5. Consider Moving When You Can.

We know it’s not always realistic, but long-term, finding rabbit-friendly housing may be the best option for you and your bunny.

 

 

 

We know how hard this situation can be, and you’re not alone. Many bunny parents have faced similar struggles—and with the right approach, it’s often possible to find a solution that works.

 

 

Someone in my household is allergic!

If you discover that you’re allergic to your bunny but still want to keep them, there are several steps you can take to manage your symptoms while continuing to care for your pet. First, it’s important to confirm the allergy—sometimes it’s not the bunny itself, but the hay (especially timothy hay), dust, or dander that’s triggering a reaction. Orchard hay is often a better option for those with sensitivities, as it tends to have fewer allergens compared to other types like timothy. Keeping your environment clean is key: vacuum frequently with a HEPA filter vacuum, dust regularly, and wash your hands after handling your bunny or their supplies. Creating bunny-free zones, especially in sleeping areas, can also help reduce constant exposure.

 

Using air purifiers with HEPA filters in the main living spaces and grooming your rabbit regularly (ideally outside or in a ventilated area) can make a noticeable difference. Wearing a mask and gloves while handling hay or cleaning may also help. We always recommend consulting a medical professional, especially if your symptoms are more than mild. All of the directors and co-owners at Hoppy Homes 4 Bunnies either have allergies themselves or live with someone who does—but we’re speaking from personal experience with mild allergic reactions, not severe cases. We can’t offer medical advice, so if your symptoms are significant or worsening, please speak with your doctor to explore safe and sustainable solutions.