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The coexistence between these two animals may seem very difficult or almost impossible, but this is not the reality, since the rabbit and the cat can become great friends, whenever the first steps in coexistence are taken in an adequate and progressive way. .
If you are thinking of sheltering these two animals under the same roof, at PeritoAnimal we give you some advice to make it possible to coexistence between cats and rabbits.
With puppies it's always easier
If the rabbit is the animal that first entered the house, it may try to attack the cat if it is small, due to the rabbit natures be hierarchical.
On the contrary, if the rabbit enters the house with the presence of an adult cat, it is very easy for the cat to act based on its predatory instinct, considering the rabbit its prey.
On the other hand, if this first contact occurs when both animals are puppies, it is very simple for coexistence to be harmonious, since they understand that the other animal is a companion, being part of a new environment and a new dynamic. But hosting these two animals at the same time is not always possible, so see how to act in other cases.
If the cat comes later...
Although these two animals can have a great friendship, it is not convenient to force contact nor the presence, we must understand that regardless of when the cat has arrived, the rabbit is its natural prey.
In these cases it is convenient initiate contact in the cage, and no matter how small the cat, it is convenient that the space between the bars of the cage is narrow enough so that the cat cannot insert its claws. It is also necessary for the rabbit's cage to be large so that the cat will recognize and get used to its movements.
You must be patient as this period can last from days to weeks, and the most recommendable is that contact always occurs progressively. The next step is to allow direct contact of both pets in one room. Do not intervene unless it is really necessary. However, if the cat tries to attack the rabbit, spray it with a water spray quickly so the cat will associate the water with the behavior it had with the rabbit.
If the rabbit comes later...
Rabbits have a great sensitivity to changes and get stressed very easily. This means that we can't introduce the cat like that all of a sudden. It is necessary that the rabbit first get used to its cage and the room it will be in, and then to the house.
Once you are used to your surroundings it is time to introduce the cat, the same precautions as in the previous case will be necessary, first contact from the cage and then direct contact. If you are patient and careful, the coexistence between cats and rabbits will not cause you any problems, this way you can have two pets that have a great relationship.
