Rabbits can feel unsettled when their people are away, especially if feeding, cleaning, or handling changes suddenly. A clear plan helps a sitter follow familiar habits and notice when something seems wrong. Before you leave, walk through your rabbit’s normal day together, show where supplies are kept, and write down specific portions and preferences. Include everyday care as well as the small details—such as favorite hiding places—that help your rabbit feel secure.
Write Down Food and Water Details
Tell the sitter which hay your rabbit eats and where to find it. Hay should be available throughout the day, so explain how to replenish it and where your rabbit prefers it placed. List the usual leafy greens and any pellets, including portions and feeding times. Avoid introducing new foods just before or during your trip; a sudden change can upset a rabbit’s digestion.
Show how your rabbit’s water is provided, whether in a bowl or bottle, and explain how often you refresh it. Ask the sitter to check that the container is clean, working, and easy for your rabbit to reach. Leave spare water containers and cleaning supplies in a known place. Note any specific food restrictions and the contact details for your rabbit’s veterinarian.
Explain Litter and Cleaning Habits
Walk the sitter through your rabbit’s usual litter setup. Point out the tray, the litter material you use, and where clean supplies are stored. Explain how often you remove soiled litter and refresh the tray. Keep the arrangement consistent if you can: moving the tray or changing its contents while you are away may make it harder for your rabbit to use it.
Describe the normal condition of the enclosure and the areas your rabbit can safely explore. Ask the sitter to remove wet bedding, uneaten fresh food, and droppings as part of the usual cleanup. Be clear about which cleaning products are safe to use and which areas are off-limits. A simple checklist can help the sitter complete each task without disturbing familiar resting spots.
Keep Enrichment and Handling Familiar
Rabbits need room to move and opportunities to explore. Show the sitter the spaces your rabbit can use, how to make them secure, and when your rabbit usually has exercise time. Leave familiar toys, tunnels, chew-safe items, and hiding places in their usual spots. Explain which items are appropriate to offer and remove anything damaged or unsafe before you go.
Tell the sitter how your rabbit prefers to interact. Some rabbits enjoy quiet company but dislike being picked up; others may come over for gentle petting. Demonstrate your usual approach and explain how to let the rabbit retreat when it wants space. Ask the sitter to keep noise low and avoid unfamiliar visitors or changes to the rabbit’s environment.
Share Health Checks and Emergency Plans
Ask the sitter to observe your rabbit at each visit and share what to check: appetite, water intake, droppings, movement, and general behavior. Describe what is normal for your rabbit so a sitter can spot a change. Rabbits can become seriously unwell when they stop eating or producing droppings, so give clear instructions to contact a veterinarian promptly if either changes.
Leave your veterinarian’s name and number, your preferred emergency clinic, and your contact details. Explain how to reach you if the sitter has a concern and authorize them to seek veterinary care if they cannot reach you. Put medication instructions in writing, including the dose and timing, and demonstrate how to give it. Keep the plan and supplies together where the sitter can find them.
A written care plan, familiar supplies, and a calm handoff help your sitter maintain your rabbit’s everyday routine. Review the instructions together before you leave and invite questions about anything unclear. If you need help caring for a small mammal while you’re away, Newcastle Small Paws can discuss your rabbit’s needs and usual schedule.