LionBunn
Well-Known Member
Whats some opinions on using a harness and leash?
Harness
- Thread starter LionBunn
- Start date
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Korr_and_Sophie
Well-Known Member
I use harnesses and leashes. I do rabbit hopping, so need them for that as well.
I think that they do have uses, but you need to take into account the rabbit and where you will be using it. Not all rabbits will accept the harness and it is a good idea to work with them on wearing the harness before taking them out.
You do need a suitable rabbit harness. H style ones are best. Avoid figure 8 ones as they can tighten on the rabbit which could choke them. Vest ones are ok, but are bulky which can restrict the movement of the rabbit and they seem easier to chew. The velcro is also not so good as fur can get stuck in it, so make sure there are buckles on both the neck and chest. Fit is also important, too loose and the rabbit can get out of it, too tight and it can be uncomfortable or restrict breathing.
As for leashes, you don't want to too short or the rabbit can't go anywhere, but too long means they can get tangled. I would not use a retractable leash because if the rabbit runs to the end, they can get jerked back. Retractable leashes also keep tension on the harness. You want a light leash with a light clasp. A small cat or dog leash will work. Most small leashes are 4ft, but you could connect 2 to make it longer.
I would avoid using a harness in an area that is not rabbit safe. You want to make sure that the area is ok for a rabbit as they could get scared and bolt which could be dangerous if you are not paying attention. Don't take you rabbit to a place where there would be lots of dog or something.
I think that they do have uses, but you need to take into account the rabbit and where you will be using it. Not all rabbits will accept the harness and it is a good idea to work with them on wearing the harness before taking them out.
You do need a suitable rabbit harness. H style ones are best. Avoid figure 8 ones as they can tighten on the rabbit which could choke them. Vest ones are ok, but are bulky which can restrict the movement of the rabbit and they seem easier to chew. The velcro is also not so good as fur can get stuck in it, so make sure there are buckles on both the neck and chest. Fit is also important, too loose and the rabbit can get out of it, too tight and it can be uncomfortable or restrict breathing.
As for leashes, you don't want to too short or the rabbit can't go anywhere, but too long means they can get tangled. I would not use a retractable leash because if the rabbit runs to the end, they can get jerked back. Retractable leashes also keep tension on the harness. You want a light leash with a light clasp. A small cat or dog leash will work. Most small leashes are 4ft, but you could connect 2 to make it longer.
I would avoid using a harness in an area that is not rabbit safe. You want to make sure that the area is ok for a rabbit as they could get scared and bolt which could be dangerous if you are not paying attention. Don't take you rabbit to a place where there would be lots of dog or something.
LionBunn
Well-Known Member
Ok thanks. I was looking at ones at petsmart that have buckles. I had 1 before for my guinea pig. I'll try around my house before going out. He's still a bit scared being new here.
rokinmyownsox
Active Member
I used a ferret harness on my rabbit until I got my rabbits custom made harnesses. The ferret harnesses are much more adjustable than the small animal ones you can get at a pet store.
Hope that helps.
Hope that helps.
gemgnir
Well-Known Member
Kate- would you be able to provide a link for the harnesses you prefer? I would like to look into getting a harness as well but can't figure out which ones are best! The small cat ones? Thanks!
Kipcha
Well-Known Member
gemgnir wrote:
The ones most of us in the Rabbit Hopping club use are the small cat ones that you can get in any Walmart and they are only five dollars.
This one is a bit thicker then the cat ones in Wal-Mart so if you want a sturdier one, then just go to a pet store and they will have what are called Rogz Catz harness's. They are thicker and sturdier and admittedly, are prettier. It also has the link in the back for the leash which some people prefer as if your rabbit is a puller, it puts a little less stress on the throat.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003V4ARUK/?tag=skimlinks_replacement-20
If you have a smaller rabbit, I wouldn't worry about getting a thicker one since they won't be needing a bigger one, just be sure to adjust it correctly to your rabbit.
The ones most of us in the Rabbit Hopping club use are the small cat ones that you can get in any Walmart and they are only five dollars.
This one is a bit thicker then the cat ones in Wal-Mart so if you want a sturdier one, then just go to a pet store and they will have what are called Rogz Catz harness's. They are thicker and sturdier and admittedly, are prettier. It also has the link in the back for the leash which some people prefer as if your rabbit is a puller, it puts a little less stress on the throat.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003V4ARUK/?tag=skimlinks_replacement-20
If you have a smaller rabbit, I wouldn't worry about getting a thicker one since they won't be needing a bigger one, just be sure to adjust it correctly to your rabbit.
Last edited by a moderator:
gemgnir
Well-Known Member
Thankyou so much! I will be on the lookout! Jabberwocky looks quite handsome in his!! I doubt my bun will do a lot of pulling, and I would just like it for piece of mind at the vet and such. instead of having to barrier with my arms on every side of the table.
