How to Litter Train Your Rabbit (Yes, It’s Possible!)

A properly set up litter box with hay encourages healthy habits and makes cleanup easy for both you and your rabbit.

One of the many wonderful things about rabbits is that—with a little patience and the right setup—they can be litter trained just like cats. If you're a new rabbit guardian or considering bringing one home, you’ll be happy to know that rabbits are naturally clean animals who prefer to do their business in the same spot.

Litter training not only keeps your home tidy, but it also makes cleaning up after your bunny much easier. Here’s how to do it right—and what to expect along the way.

Step 1: Spay or Neuter First

This is the #1 key to successful litter training. Unaltered rabbits are driven by hormones that lead to territorial marking (yes, even females!). Spaying or neutering your rabbit greatly reduces the urge to mark and helps them settle into consistent litter habits.

If your rabbit hasn’t been fixed yet, we recommend scheduling that first—especially before starting litter training in earnest.

Step 2: Choose the Right Litter Box

A rabbit-safe litter box should be:

• Low-sided for easy access (especially for seniors or small breeds)

• Large enough for your rabbit to sit or lay in comfortably

• Easy to clean and resistant to urine buildup

Cat litter boxes can work well—some rabbit parents use corner litter pans, while others prefer larger bins for more room.

Step 3: Use the Right Litter (No Clay or Clumping!)

Rabbits tend to nibble on everything, so it’s important to use safe, non-toxic litter. Avoid anything made from:

• Clay

• Clumping formulas

• Pine or cedar shavings (toxic to rabbits)

Use this instead:

• Paper-based litter (like CareFresh or Yesterday’s News)

• Compressed paper pellets

• Aspen shavings (sparingly and only if needed)

A gray rabbit comfortably resting on hay, demonstrating a natural setup that supports healthy litter training habits.

Step 4: Add Hay—Yes, in the Litter Box!

This may seem strange at first, but rabbits love to eat while they poop. Placing fresh Timothy hay directly on top of the litter or in a hay rack above the litter box encourages them to use it consistently.

You’ll be surprised how effective this simple trick is!

Step 5: Set It Up in the Right Spot

At first, observe where your rabbit tends to go potty. Place the litter box there. If your rabbit is free-roam, start in a small, enclosed space like an exercise pen or bunny-proofed room and gradually expand their area as they improve.

Keep multiple litter boxes around if needed, especially in larger spaces.

Step 6: Clean Regularly

Spot-clean the litter box daily by removing soiled litter and droppings, and do a full change-out and clean with a 50/50 white vinegar and water spray at least once a week. This keeps the box fresh and discourages accidents elsewhere.

Bonus Tips for Success

• Accidents happen: Especially during training. Don’t punish your rabbit—just gently clean the spot and reinforce the litter box area.

• Limit space at first: Rabbits learn best in small spaces. Once they’re using the box regularly, slowly give them access to more room.

• Use positive reinforcement: Offer a small treat when you see them using the litter box successfully.

  
  

When to Be Concerned

If your previously trained rabbit suddenly stops using the litter box, it could be a sign of:

• A urinary tract infection

• Bladder sludge or stones

• Discomfort or aging issues

Always consult a rabbit-savvy vet if you notice any unusual changes.

Final Thoughts

Litter training your rabbit is totally doable—and makes living with your bunny that much more enjoyable. With consistency, the right supplies, and a little patience, your rabbit will learn to keep their space tidy in no time.

Have questions or need help troubleshooting? Reach out to us at Kribs for Kritters Rabbit Rescue and Sanctuary—we’re happy to help guide you and your bun toward litter box success!