How to Introduce a New Chew Toy to Your Rabbit

By Small Pet Select UK | Published: 2026-10-17

Category: How-to Guides

Follow this step-by-step guide to safely introduce a new chew toy to your rabbit. Learn how to choose the right toy, supervise first interactions, and encourage natural chewing behavior.

Quick Answer

Start by choosing a natural, safe chew toy like the Small Pet Select UK Tiny Paws - Willow Bundle. Place it near your rabbit's usual resting area and let them explore at their own pace. Supervise the first few sessions to ensure they chew safely and don't ingest large pieces.

Why a New Chew Toy Matters for Your Rabbit

Rabbits need to chew to keep their teeth healthy and to satisfy their natural foraging instincts. A new toy provides mental stimulation and prevents boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior. Choosing the right toy is the first step in a successful introduction.

Choosing the Right Chew Toy

Look for toys made from untreated, natural materials like willow, seagrass, or hay. The Small Pet Select UK Tiny Paws - Willow Bundle is a great example: it's made from air-dried, unpeeled willow sticks tied together, offering a safe and engaging chew challenge. Avoid toys with small plastic parts, dyes, or glues that could harm your rabbit.

Steps to Introduce a New Chew Toy

Step 1: Choose a Safe, Natural Toy: Select a toy made from rabbit-safe materials like willow, seagrass, or hay. Avoid painted or glued items. The Small Pet Select UK Tiny Paws - Willow Bundle is a solid choice because it's 100% natural willow. Checkpoint: Ensure the toy has no small parts that could break off and be swallowed.
Step 2: Place the Toy in a Familiar Area: Put the toy near your rabbit's food bowl, water bottle, or favorite resting spot. Rabbits are curious but cautious, so a familiar location reduces stress and encourages exploration. Common mistake: Placing the toy in a high-traffic or noisy area can scare your rabbit away.
Step 3: Let Your Rabbit Explore at Their Own Pace: Do not force the toy on your rabbit. Allow them to sniff, nudge, and investigate it on their terms. Some rabbits may start chewing immediately, while others need a few days to warm up. Checkpoint: If your rabbit ignores the toy for more than 2 days, try rubbing it with a bit of hay to spark interest.
Step 4: Supervise the First Few Chewing Sessions: Watch how your rabbit interacts with the toy. Ensure they are chewing safely and not swallowing large chunks or getting tangled. The Tiny Paws - Willow Bundle is designed to be safe, but supervision is always wise. Common mistake: Leaving a new toy unattended for hours can lead to overconsumption or accidents.
Step 5: Rotate Toys to Maintain Interest: After a few days, if your rabbit seems bored, swap the new toy with another safe chew toy. Rotating toys every few days keeps enrichment fresh and prevents your rabbit from losing interest. Checkpoint: Have at least two or three safe toys in rotation to keep your rabbit engaged.

Product Facts

Tiny Paws - Willow Bundle: This charming bundle features thin, air-dried, unpeeled willow sticks tied at each end with even more willow. The natural willow is safe for chewing and helps wear down your rabbit's teeth, while the tied design provides a fun challenge that encourages problem-solving.