Loss of Confidence

Charlie has head tilt - remnants of an ear infection last year - He is a house bunny but when we can we let him outside with us, however, he never wants to come out of his box anymore - I think he has lost all his confidence. Any tips on how to get him out and enjoying the fresh air??

When you let him out with you is he being offered the run of the entire garden? If so that can be quite intimidating to a prey animal, especially one who is a little disadvantaged.

Rabbit's are naturally agorophobic and love to have familiar surroundings because they can identify 'safe' area's and bolt holes to escape to if danger threatens. I would try letting im out little and often in a sectioned area of the garden providing some boxes and tunnels for him to hide in.

It will take time but should help boost his confidence once he feels secure in his environment.

Sooz wrote:When you let him out with you is he being offered the run of the entire garden? If so that can be quite intimidating to a prey animal, especially one who is a little disadvantaged.

Rabbit's are naturally agorophobic and love to have familiar surroundings because they can identify 'safe' area's and bolt holes to escape to if danger threatens. I would try letting im out little and often in a sectioned area of the garden providing some boxes and tunnels for him to hide in.

It will take time but should help boost his confidence once he feels secure in his environment.

Yes, I agree with Sooz. He probably knows he is at a disadvantage with his still slightly tilted head so he will feel even more vulnerable.
A smaller area with hidey-holes will definately help. If he is used to 'indoor sounds' like a Radio then outdoors will 'sound' a bit scary to him too. So a bit of music next to his run will help !!

Janex

I agree, if you can put familiar objects in the area that might help as well.

Good Luck