Why does the rabbit gnaw?

Anyone who shares their life with a bunny knows it: gnawing isn't just an instinctive gesture, but a true form of expression. Rabbits' teeth grow throughout their lives, and gnawing helps keep them healthy, but it's also a way for them to explore, communicate and inhabit the world.

That's why, when a new hay feeder or den arrives, one of the most frequently asked questions is: "What if it gnaws it?"

Gnawing is natural: when it's not a problem

Chewing behavior is natural and healthy, but that doesn't mean your rabbit should chew everything he comes across. If it has good-quality hay available at all times, is free-roaming indoors, can explore, interact with its family, and has access to some natural wood as extra stimulation (not essential, but welcome), it won't feel the need to attack furniture or objects.

A happy bunny will use its resources—hay, toys, stimulation—in the most balanced and respectful way. And if it occasionally leaves a mark on something... that's just proof it's truly enjoying its home.

Let's dispel a myth: "It gnaws everything, so I don't buy anything."

This thought is common and understandable, but it doesn't tell the truth.

A bunny that gnaws incessantly isn't being "naughty": it's bored, stressed, lonely, or has a dental problem (such as malocclusion or overgrowth). In these cases, gnawing is a warning sign.

The first thing to do is observe and, if necessary, speak with a veterinarian specializing in exotic animals. Then create an environment that stimulates and welcomes it, and involves it in family life.

This is why the Susy® line of furnishing objects was created specifically for our bunnies.

Don't give up: beautiful and safe objects for both of you

We don't want furniture that needs to be protected from rabbits. We want furniture that's designed for them, too.
Susy® hayracks are beautiful to look at and safe to use: made from FSC-certified honeycomb cardboard, 100% natural, they're truly bunny-proof. If your rabbit gnaws them, there's no risk: all materials are safe even if ingested in small quantities.

Not only that, they organize, decorate, and integrate seamlessly into spaces. They're living objects, meant to be used every day.

Hay Feeders Susy®: design, functionality and safety

Home Hay Feeder

Your own personal corner, designed to elegantly accommodate your pet's mealtime, relaxation, and litter box. It's stylishly decorated, personalized with your pet's name, and easily fits into any room.

Travel Hay Feeder

Compact, lightweight, and 100% recyclable: your portable den, so you can go anywhere together without leaving anyone behind.

Both are available in various colors — white, brown, two-tone or illustrated — and designed to be useful, beautiful and practical to use.

When gnawing is excessive: what it could mean

In the first few days with a new product, it's normal for your rabbit to explore with its teeth. But if the gnawing becomes insistent, it could mean:

• It is an unsterilized puppy (more prone to marking and chewing)

• Feeling lonely, bored, or stressed

• Has teeth problems (they grow crooked or too quickly)

In all these cases, don't give up on creating space for your pet: instead, get to the root of the discomfort. Excessive gnawing is a cry for help, not a sentence of destroyed furniture.

Tips for keeping your hay rack looking its best for longer

• Use an internal tray and absorbent pad at the base for a more practical and drier change

• Provide a good quality litter box

• Avoid humidity and direct sunlight

• Keep his space clean frequently

A lived product is a successful product

For us at Susy®, a lived-in product is a successful product. It's not made to be admired from afar, but to embrace real life—rabbit included.
It is specifically designed to be used by our pets and is proof that it has been chosen, inhabited, loved.

Discover all the hay racks and accessories in our shop, designed for you and those who happily jump around beside you. Have questions or want to share your experience with your gnawer? Chat with us; we're here for you (and their little paws).

FAQ: Everything you wanted to know about bunny gnawing

My rabbit gnaws everything: is this normal?
It depends! If he has access to fresh hay, free space, and daily stimulation, the chewing shouldn't become destructive. It's often a sign of distress.

What materials are safe for rabbits to chew on?
Susy® products are made of natural cardboard, without toxic glues: safe even if chewed.

Do you need to buy sticks to gnaw on?
They can be a helpful addition, but hay remains the essential element.