Adjusting to a New Cage and Environment

[pam9]

Hello all,

In a few weeks I am moving to attend graduate school. One of my rabbits, Einstein, will be coming with me. (the second will be staying home with my parents) As I will now have my own space, I bought Einstein a bigger cage. He isn't using it now because it's too large to fit in his current cage spot.

I was thinking of putting his new cage in my room (he plays in there sometimes)and putting him in there for a few hours daily, so he can adjust and won't be as stressed when we move. Anyone have any suggestions/tips on getting him accustomed to his new cage and my new apartment?

Thanks!

 

[NorthernAutumn]

I am in the same boat - moving for grad school (Congrats to you!).
I would think that moving a few of his possessions into the new cage would make him feel more confident post-move.

I was thinking about this for myself - I was going to do a major cage cleanup before moving (replace carpet, etc), but I think perhaps I will leave it in so that the cage still smells like "home".

Looking forward to more opinions!

 

[tamsin]

Giving him access to the new cage at playtime is a good idea, if they whole thing is too big maybe just the base?

Saving the contents of his current cage, dirty litter and all, will also make it feel more like home at first. Rabbits rely on scent a lot, so if it smells like home then they will settle faster.

 

[Nancy McClelland]

:yeahthat: We always put all their "old" stuff in with them for a smoother transition.