Providing mental stimulation outside of their enclosure can be very beneficial for your small animal’s well-being. It can also be a fun new way to interact with your small animal. Find some great tips and ideas below.
Safety first
When giving a small animal a physical enrichment opportunity outside its enclosure, it is important to remember to:
Have proper supervision
Have food and water made available
Ensure the room or exercise pen is secure to avoid escapes
Ensure that the area is safe. Move objects that can be chewed or ingested.
Stay away from young children, predators, other animals
Use a non-slip surface
Provide a hiding place for the animal to retreat (e.g. igloo, box)
Toys
Toys are a great enrichment option. Small animals enjoy items such as balls, chewing blocks, paper bags, and crumbled newspapers. They also love things that they can carry, push, bury or hide. Place toys on the floor in an enclosure. Toys can also be safely hung from the cage. Ensure that the toys are large enough not to swallow.
Brushing/Grooming
Rabbits, in particular, need to be brushed regularly to remove excess fur and to prevent matting. This activity provides human social interaction as well as enrichment.
Agility courses
Several species such as bunnies, rats, and guinea pigs enjoy agility. Agility offers both physical and mental stimulation and encourages bonding and social interaction for the participating individuals.
These tips provide a great start for small animal enrichment.
If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.
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