What Do Rabbits Like to Sleep On?

Rabbits are creatures of habit, and like humans, rabbits have a sleeping routine.   Rabbits are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk, and they usually sleep during the daytime for several hours. 

Rabbits take frequent naps, but it is ideal for rabbits to have an uninterrupted 8-hour sleep during the afternoon and early evening.   A rabbit that does not get enough sleep can become anxious and stressed, leading to health problems.

Because rabbits easily get overheated, they prefer to sleep and lay on cold surfaces like tile, concrete, or even a metal cage floor. 

Rabbits like to sleep on soft surfaces such as towels, blankets, and plush toys. These items make for a comfortable place for rabbits to lay their heads down and nap. Some people even put baby crib bumpers in their rabbit’s cages for them to sleep on.

We will explore some of the different types of bedding and materials that rabbits like to sleep on and some items that you should avoid placing in your rabbit’s cage.

Popular Bedding Materials for Rabbits

Providing your rabbit with a comfortable place to sleep is vital for their overall health. And there are many things that rabbits can sleep on, but not all of them are good for rabbits.

Here are some popular bedding materials for rabbits and things to consider before using them:

A Bed

Rabbits like to sleep on a bed that is soft and comfortable.  Your bunny can use your bed or have his own.  However, it is better to have your rabbit sleep in his bed as he can easily get lost in your bed and hurt himself.

Additionally, since they are tiny, it’s dangerous for rabbits to sleep on a bed with humans because they can easily get squished by accident.

A Blanket

A soft blanket is another good option for rabbits. Make sure that the blanket is not too heavy, as it could cause your rabbit to overheat. There are many types of blankets available for rabbits and other small pets, so you should be able to find one that is the perfect size and weight for your bunny.

A Pillow

If you’re considering adding a pillow to your rabbit’s sleeping area, it’s important to choose one that is soft and not too high. Some rabbits like the extra support a pad provides, while others prefer not to use one.

If you decide to add a pillow, make sure it is made of a soft material such as cotton or fleece. Avoid pillows filled with synthetic materials or have a high loft, as these can be uncomfortable for rabbits. With a bit of trial and error, you should be able to find the perfect pillow for your furry friend.

Hay

Hay is probably the most popular bedding material for rabbits. Not only is it comfortable, but it’s also good for their digestion. Hay also helps to keep your rabbit’s teeth healthy and trim.

There are many types of hay available, so you’ll need to experiment to find the one that your rabbit likes the best. Some rabbits prefer Timothy hay, while others prefer alfalfa hay.

Pulped paper 

Pulped paper, a waste product from the paper industry, is ideal for your rabbit to sleep on since it is environmentally friendly, highly absorbent, safe, and has already been dust extracted. 

Straw

Straw is ideal for rabbits to sleep on as it provides comfort and is a good insulator.  It is also absorbent, so it’s good, especially for outdoor rabbits.

Bedding Materials to Avoid

While there may be several choices for what your rabbit can sleep on, there are also some things that you should avoid.

Sawdust

Unfortunately, some common bedding materials can be harmful to rabbits. Sawdust, for example, is often used as bedding for small animals. However, sawdust can irritate a rabbit’s skin and lungs and cause respiratory problems.

In addition, sawdust is often treated with chemicals toxic to rabbits. As a result, it’s best to avoid using sawdust as bedding for your pet rabbit. Instead, opt for a safer material such as straw or hay.

Do rabbits lay eggs? Their secrets finally exposed!

Wood Chips

Wood chips may be harmful to sleep on by your rabbits because it has sharp edges and splinters and can cause health problems if ingested by rabbits. 

Furthermore, it is not exactly comfortable to sleep on and may not be absorbent.

Newspaper

Newspapers should be avoided as bedding for rabbits because the ink from the newspaper can be harmful if ingested.

Rabbits like to chew, so there is a chance that they will eat the newspaper and get sick.

In addition, newspaper is not very absorbent, so it’s not ideal for rabbits prone to accidents.

Is Aspen Wood Safe For Rabbits? Aspen Bedding For Rabbits

Conclusion

When it comes to rabbits, sleep is crucial to their health and well-being. This means that it is essential for us owners to provide them with a comfortable place to sleep to support their bodies and help them rest properly. 

There are many different options for rabbit bedding, ranging from hay and straw to pulped paper. Whatever option you decide, it is essential to avoid using sawdust or wood chips, as these can be hazardous to your rabbit’s health. 

Finding the perfect sleeping material for your beloved bunny should not be too difficult with a bit of experimentation. Just remember that the key is to give your furry friend a soft and comfortable spot where they can feel safe and secure. In doing so, you will help ensure that your rabbit stays healthy, happy, and well-rested!