Can I Make a Homemade Rabbit Cage?

by Britt

Published: August 30th, 2023

Photo credit: Kyttan / Shutterstock.com

Whether you are planning to bring home your first rabbit or changing things up with a new habitat for your bunny, choosing, planning out, and designing a cage can be a fun experience. But it can also be a costly one… One way to give your rabbit the best possible habitat without breaking the bank is to take on a rabbit cage DIY project – making alterations to a store-bought cage or building one yourself from scratch.

To help you get started, I have compiled a basic guide to setting up your own homemade rabbit cage, including some basic rabbit habitat information, a few commonly asked questions about a rabbit’s ideal environment, and step-by-step instructions to build your own DIY rabbit cage.

Can Rabbits Be Kept Without a Cage?

One of the first supplies most people purchase before bringing home a rabbit is a cage, but is a traditional cage necessary? As rabbit lovers and experts have learned more about the basic needs of their furry friends, new approaches to raising a rabbit have emerged. In fact, most of the standard rabbit cages you will see in your local pet stores are too small to provide the space needed for a happy, healthy life.

Free roaming refers to giving your rabbit access to your home or apartment so they can wander freely, even if you aren’t present. This is similar to how most people raise a dog or cat.

One way to do this effectively while still maintaining a clean and sanitary home is by litter training your rabbit. Just like cats, rabbits can be trained to do their business in a designated box or area. This keeps the mess contained, making it easier to clean up. But, of course, it requires putting the work into training and being prepared to deal with any accidents that may occur during that process.

Additionally, you must consider rabbit-proofing your home to prevent unwanted or potentially dangerous bad habits like chewing on your furniture or, even worse, chewing electrical cords.

This all takes time, money, and patience. If you aren’t prepared to take on this level of commitment to maintaining a safe, free-roaming environment, it is in the best interest of everyone involved (including you and your rabbit) to keep your rabbit safely contained in a suitable cage or pen.

Can Rabbits Live in a Playpen?

If you aren’t quite ready to allow your rabbit to roam freely in your home but still want to provide them with more freedom than a traditional cage, a playpen or exercise pen is a great alternative. These pens are often modular in design, meaning that you can set them up to suit your available space. While some are designed to have a top, others are open to the top, providing easier access to your rabbit. But you need to be aware of the height of the pen to ensure that your rabbit can’t jump out and escape.

Regarding setting up your rabbit’s playpen, it is best to consider the space the same way you would a cage. This means having a designated bathroom area with a litterbox (if you are using one), a space for your rabbit to sleep, and a separate area for food and water (including space for roughage like hay).

What Can I Use as a Rabbit Cage?

While we are on the topic of rabbit cage alternatives, there are other options outside of a playpen or homemade rabbit cage. These store-bought options will keep your bunny safely contained while providing the space they need.

Here are a few rabbit cage ideas for you to consider:

Extra-Large Dog Crate: While most dog crates will be too small for a long-term enclosure, extra-large dog crates designed to meet the sizing needs of giant breeds may be large enough for smaller rabbit breeds. Pay attention to the construction of the bottom of the crate. Wire bottom crates introduce a risk of injury from having your rabbit's foot or leg slip through the hole and get stuck. However, many dog crates are outfitted with solid plastic or metal trays at the bottom, eliminating this problem.
Designated Rabbit Room: If free-roaming the house is too much work, why not consider assigning one room in your home to be a designated rabbit room? This could be a spare room used solely for the rabbit, keeping the door closed to contain your rabbit when you aren’t around. Alternatively, you could block off a common area in your home or a portion of a common area (like the living room or den) using safety gates or fencing. Focus your rabbit-proofing efforts on the area of the home your rabbit has access to.
Converted Large Storage Containers: Some rabbit parents create large, comfortable rabbit enclosures using plastic storage containers. To do this, you will need to search for a container that is large enough to meet the basic space requirements for a rabbit (at least 12 square feet of enclosure space). Cut plenty of holes in the sides of the container to offer airflow, but be careful not to make those holes large enough for your rabbit to escape. If you can’t find a large enough container, you may be able to combine two if they can move easily between them.
Outdoor Rabbit Hutch: Some rabbit parents are now returning to the traditional rabbit hutch, originally used for rabbits raised for farming purposes. These structures are designed to safely contain your rabbit outdoors, offering shelter from the elements. If you live in an area that sees cold winters, you will need to ensure the hutch has proper insulation or that there is a separate indoor space where your rabbit can be kept during the winter months. Your outdoor hutch must also be reinforced to offer protection against local predators.

Photo credit: Kyttan / Shutterstock.com

Is it Cheaper to Build a Rabbit Cage or Buy One?

The short answer is: It depends! That’s right, there is no black-and-white answer to the question of pricing related to a store-bought rabbit enclosure versus a homemade rabbit cage. You can create homemade rabbit cages that are highly budget-friendly, or they can be large, elaborate, and far more costly.

If a tight budget is driving your decision, I recommend exploring your options. Search for store-bought pens or enclosures that may be on sale to keep costs down. If you are set on building your own rabbit cage, you must make intentional build decisions with your budget in mind. Keep in mind that many of the options we have introduced may be available at a significantly reduced cost on Facebook marketplace or at local garage sales.

My first rabbit as a child, Cutie, had a cage built out of an extra-large dog crate purchased for pennies at a garage sale. You just have to keep your eyes open!

How to Build a Rabbit Cage: Step-by-Step

After reading the above information, are you still inspired by the creative homemade indoor rabbit cages you see on social media? If so, here are the basic steps to build a homemade rabbit cage that will meet all your furry friend’s needs:

Step One: Gather Your Materials

You will need to consider what materials you will use to build out your rabbit’s enclosure. There are a few standard options. One is to build a wooden frame and attach wire on the sides and top, creating an enclosure that resembles a traditional hutch. But I have also seen a growing number of rabbit lovers using wire storage cubes to create a modular rabbit cage or pen nearly identical to the store-bought varieties. If you are using storage cubes, you will also need zip ties to secure the connection points.

Step Two: Design Your Pen’s Shape and Size

The biggest perk to building your own rabbit cage is that you can easily adapt it to suit your available space. For example, if you have a large, narrow area at one end of your bedroom, you can leverage the length to provide more room for your rabbit to move. Don’t be afraid to be creative, like creating an L-shaped enclosure to make the most of a corner space.

Step Three: Assemble the Storage Cubes

Using the connectors provided with your storage cube step, assemble the panels to match your design. Depending on the size of the storage cubes you purchased, one panel may be tall enough to keep your rabbit contained, or you may have to build it out two panels high. Reinforce each connection point using your zip ties, cutting off any excess material to prevent your rabbit from chewing on and potentially ingesting it.

When setting this up, you will need to consider the placement of a door (or two) or the alternative of lifting your rabbit up and over the side of the pen. If you are assembling your pen with a door, only attach zip ties on one side of that panel so that it can open and close. You can secure doors using small metal carabiners.

Step Four: Consider the Base

You want to ensure that your rabbit is comfortable on the floor or surface of their pen. If you’re setting your pen up on a hardwood floor or other hard, slippery surface, you may want to add a mat, carpet, or yoga mat on the bottom. Not only will this make the area more comfortable for your rabbit, but it will also protect your floor from damage. For added protection, consider placing puppy pee pads under any mats that aren’t waterproof.

Step Five: Decorate and Accessorize

Now that you have the basic structure, it’s time to build out your rabbit’s enclosure in a way that will both suit your personality and provide for all their basic needs. Some essential elements you may want to consider include food dishes, a hay rack, a water bottle, and a litter box. Don’t forget to offer toys or interactive elements to provide the mental enrichment necessary for a happy, healthy life.

Final Thoughts: Building a Rabbit Cage

One of the most important decisions you can make for your rabbit’s health and happiness is to provide them with a habitat that will provide for all their needs. Many great store-bought options are available, but these can come with a higher price tag. Additionally, they are somewhat limited in their structure and design, which may not make the most of your available space. For this reason, there is a growing number of rabbit lovers who are choosing instead to design and build a homemade rabbit cage or homemade rabbit hutch.

When planning your rabbit’s cage, ensure that you include all necessary elements like a hay box, sleeping area, room to move freely, and toys or other enrichment opportunities. If the enclosure is smaller (but still meets the recommended minimum space requirements), you may also want to consider setting up a secondary exercise area in the home or allowing free roaming when your rabbit is supervised to allow for needed physical activity.

Caring for a rabbit does require work, planning, and preparation. But it will all be worth it when you bring your new furry family member home and begin the process of building that special bond that we all know and love!

Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Lucifer and Willow – and their 2 cats – Pippen and Jinx. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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There are few tales as heartwarming as the magic of the human-animal bond shared by dogs and their people. This love and loyalty that inspires Arizona-based nonprofit, Soldiers Best Friend, to bring together combat veterans and local homeless dogs for their happily ever after. The organization was founded by veterinarian John Burnham following the passing of his father in 2007. At this time, he realized he wanted to do something bigger to honor his father while using his personal and professional talents, and the rest, as they say, is history. Since its establishment in 2011, Soldiers Best Friend has remained unwavering in its commitment to its mission of 'touching 2 lives at once'. The organization pairs veterans with combat-related PTSD or traumatic brain injuries with dogs from local shelters. The veteran and dog train together, giving both a second chance at the quality of life they deserve while also allowing them to create the close bond that will strengthen their relationship moving forward. Not only do dogs find a forever home, helping to address the current pet overpopulation problem, but veterans are also provided with a unique and effective source of support free of charge. While John has stated that he will continue his mission until these service dogs are no longer needed, he also acknowledges that the time will likely never come—at least not in his lifetime. To date, Solder’s Best Friend has connected with and served over 400 veterans, an impressive feat. These dogs not only offer the veterans more independence at home, but they also make the greater world feel more accessible. Tiffany Batura, a retired Navy veteran who served for four years, shared her story. After retiring, Batura was faced with the incredible challenge of recovering from PTSD from her service. “I had not very many women on my boat,” she explained. “The military has changed a lot, but at the time, there was a lot of harassment.” When asked about Soldier’s Best Friend and her service dog, a lab named Deadly, she was happy to share how much the dog has made a difference in her life. “So far, I’ve noticed that I am more willing to go out in public. I’m not homebound all the time,” Batura stated. While that may not seem like a lot, it’s a life-changing difference for Batura and others who are faced with PTSD from their military experiences. In fact, according to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 7% of veterans will have PTSD. However, that rate is nearly double among female veterans, reaching a concerning 13%. If you’re interested in helping Solider’s Best Friend in their noble mission, you can show your support in several ways. Those based in Arizona can volunteer to help with various tasks, including administrative duties, building maintenance, fundraising events, and even fostering a dog. For those who live outside of Arizona or who have a busy schedule that prevents them from committing to volunteer work, the organization is an Arizona Qualifying Charitable Organization. Simply make your donations using QCO code 22497. Alternatively, they also have an Amazon Wish List with many items needed to continue their work. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Do I Stop My Cat From Waking Me up at Night?

As cat parents, we all love our feline family members. But that love doesn’t erase the frustration that comes with your cat turning into a furry alarm clock at precisely 3 am every morning. Why are they even up at that hour?In this article, we’ll address exactly that—the reasons for your cat’s nighttime activities and the steps you can take to reclaim your sleep once and for all.Let’s not waste any time…Why Does My Cat Wake Me Up Every Night? Having your sleep disturbed by your cat every night can be frustrating. But before you get upset with your furry friend, consider asking yourself why. Why are they waking you up? Why are they unable to settle in? There is a possibility that this could be your cat’s way of asking for or alerting you to something important. Here are a few of the more common reasons: Pain or Medical Problems This is most common in cats that once used to settle in fine and are now changing their nighttime routine. If your cat is feeling “off,” whether it’s due to discomfort or pain, it may be preventing them from relaxing or sleeping at night. To rule this out, you must make an appointment with your veterinarian. Pay careful attention to any other signs of trouble, including: Panting Changes in eating habits “Accidents” or failure to use their litterbox like usual Excessive vocalization (meowing, howling, hissing)Loss of interest in toys, furniture, or activities they once loved Overgrooming or failure to groom Hiding or reluctance to be handledIrritability or uncharacteristic aggression When you speak with your veterinarian, explain all behavior changes or reasons for concern that you have recorded. If you're unsure, we recommend keeping a journal. This will help you spot patterns and red flags. Feline Dementia Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) in cats is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. As our cats get older, one of the unfortunate age-related symptoms they suffer is a change in their mental state. They may start to act confused, seem unfamiliar with their surroundings, stare blankly into space, or struggle to follow household rules that were once deeply ingrained. If your cat has CDS, they may vocalize loudly at night because they don’t remember where they are or can’t find you. This behavior is often a sign of feeling anxious, fearful, or stressed out. Cat parents who know they have a kitty with CDS may need to keep their cat in a contained “safe place” at night to prevent them from wandering and becoming lost, as it can be incredibly distressing for them. Feeling Hungry Do you have a cat that is highly food-driven? I do! Speaking from experience, an empty food dish can trigger quite a commotion. Our food-driven cat Jinx is quick to let us know when she’s hungry and doesn’t have access to something tasty. In the same way, it could also be your cat’s way of letting you know that their water dish or fountain is running low. Lack of Daytime Activity/Stimulation Cats require mental and physical exercise throughout their day to live a happy, healthy life. When they don’t have this, they can feel bored and exhibit “bad” behaviors like scratching furniture, tearing about the toilet paper, overgrooming, or becoming overly vocal. Much like the cats who are trying to communicate that their food or water dishes are empty, these cats are trying to tell you that they are missing something essential in their lives. It is most common in cats living in a smaller space with few opportunities to engage in their natural behaviors, such as climbing, scratching, hunting, and hiding. Feeling Lonely Despite their aloof and sassy personalities, cats are actually social animals. This is why you find stray cats living in colonies. Your cat’s social needs can be met by you, other people in the house, a second cat (or third or fourth…), or even another animal, like a dog. But they need to have someone they can connect with. Are you your cat’s person? Even if you spend a few hours focused entirely on them before heading to bed, your absence may be difficult for them. Cats can experience separation anxiety, even if the only separation is that you are in a different room, leaving them alone. Differing SchedulesCats are naturally most active at dawn and dusk, which is known as being crepuscular. While some cats will adjust their schedules to match their human family members a little closer, doing so goes against their natural instincts (unless you work a night shift). Other crepuscular pets include hamsters, rats, mice, rabbits, ferrets, and chinchillas. Your cat will likely wake up to get attention or play with you throughout the day, but they will also take many naps. Our cats spend much of their day stretched out in a patch of sunshine, soaking up the warmth and recharging. In general, cats are most energetic first thing in the morning as the sun rises and again just as the average person is getting ready for bed.

What Happens if a Dog Eats a Cicada?

As naturally inquisitive animals, dogs will often explore the world around them with their noses and mouths. However, this curiosity will sometimes lead them to all sorts of trouble, as they can eat things that might not be a typical part of their diet. In fact, they can munch on things that are not even edible! For example, those noisy, flying insects that emerge periodically, called cicadas, can become a tasty target for curious dogs. But what would happen if a dog would eat one of these insects? Here is all you should know.What Happens if a Dog Eats a Cicada?Cicadas are large, winged insects that appear in large numbers, and are known for their distinct sounds. Of course, they are not inherently harmful to pooches, but there are still some things to keep in mind if your pet happens to snack on one. Well, the most important thing to know is that cicadas are not toxic to dogs. Unlike some insects that carry venom or other harmful substances, cicadas are generally seen as harmless. But even so, the ingestion of these insects can still lead to some minor health issues, mostly related to their physical characteristics and the digestive system of a dog. Here’s what could go amiss if your pooch swallows one of these weird little bugs:Upset TummyAfter this unusual “snack”, your pet could end up with a mild case of digestive upset, especially if they already have a sensitive stomach to begin with. The insect’s exoskeleton, being hard and crunchy, is not so easy to digest. As a result, your pooch could experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea or vomiting. Still, they are short-lived and should disappear on their own. If your dog experiences gastrointestinal upset, consider giving them a canine probiotic that could restore their gut flora and help them feel like their old selves in no time.

K9 Fergie Disappears Near Loch Ness...

Nope, not taken by the famed lake's monster, just ignoring her handler's commands.

How to Tell If a Dog Is Dehydrated?

Summer is in full swing, and drinking plenty of water is very important for everyone – our dogs included. Dehydration in dogs is a very serious condition that can lead to many health issues if it is not addressed promptly. Recognizing the signs of dehydration early can make a significant difference in your dog’s well-being. So here are the basic things to know, including symptoms, causes, and preventative measures. How to Tell If a Dog Is Dehydrated?When it comes to spotting signs of all health issues in dogs, it all boils down to being attentive and making sure you don’t miss any cues from your pooch. Knowing the symptoms of dehydration in dogs will help you tremendously as you’ll know precisely what to look for, ensuring a quick response and timely treatment for your four-legged bestie.#1 Dry nose and gums:One of the first noticeable signs of dehydration in dogs is a dry nose and gums. Normally, a dog’s nose should be moist, and the gums should be pink and moist as well. But if you notice that your pet’s nose and gums are dry, it could be an indication of dehydration.#2 Loss of skin elasticity:Skin elasticity is a key indicator of hydration levels. Gently pinch the skin on the back of your dog’s neck or between the shoulders. In a well-hydrated doggo, the skin should quickly return to its normal position. If the skin, however, stays tented or takes a long time to go back, it is a sign of dehydration. #3 Sunken eyes:Dehydration can cause a dog’s eyes to appear sunken and lack their usual brightness. This is a more severe symptom and indicates that the dehydration has been ongoing or is at a critical level.#4 Lethargy and weakness:Dehydrated dogs often show signs of lethargy and weakness. They might be less active than usual, unwilling to play, or have difficulty standing or walking. #5 Panting or rapid breathing:While panting is normal for dogs, excessive panting or rapid breathing can be a symptom of dehydration, especially if it is not related to any recent physical activity or high outside temperatures.#6 Dry and sticky saliva:Dehydrated dogs may have thick, sticky saliva instead of the usual watery type. This is a noticeable change that can indicate your dog needs more fluids.It is important to remember that there can be various causes of dehydration, and one needs to consider all of them. For example, the main cause of dehydration in dogs tends to be inadequate water intake. Dogs may not drink enough water due to many reasons, such as stress, illness, or changes in their environment. Make sure that they always have a source of fresh water, even if you are outside. If your dog isn’t too keen on drinking water, try encouraging them with a pet water fountain – moving, fresh water tends to have a better taste and the novelty of the fountain usually motivates dogs to drink more than they usually do.

Cat Laryngitis: Can Cats Lose Their Voice?

Did you know that cats can get laryngitis? This condition occurs when the larynx, or voice box, is inflamed, and it can cause changes in the sound of your cat’s voice or a loss of their voice.Keep reading to learn the causes of laryngitis in cats, as well as the symptoms and what you can do to treat it. That way, if your cat’s voice suddenly changes or they become less talkative, you’ll have a better idea of what might be the problem and what you should do.

Do Dogs Sweat?

As the hot summer months roll in with a bang, you might find yourself drenched in sweat. With the climate going haywire, it is a common thing all across the world. While trying to cool down, you might be wondering if your pet is doing the same– do dogs sweat like humans do? To answer this question, it is important to understand how dogs regulate their body temperature and to dive deep into the intriguing aspects of canine physiology. Do Dogs Sweat?Humans have a well-developed system of sweat glands that are distributed across the skin’s surface. These glands are known as eccrine glands and they play a crucial role in thermoregulation by secreting sweat, which cools down the body as it evaporates. Dogs, however, have a totally different “mechanism” for managing heat.Of course, they also have sweat glands, but these are primarily located in their paw pads. They are called merocrine glands and are similar to human eccrine glands but are less numerous and less effective at cooling the body. While doggos can produce a small amount of sweat through their paw pads, it is still not enough to significantly impact their overall body temperature.So how do they cool themselves? Well, the primary way dogs regulate their body temperature is through panting. When a dog pants, it rapidly breathes in through the nose and out through the mouth, allowing moisture to evaporate from the tongue, mouth, and upper respiratory tract. This process effectively dissipates heat and cools the dog down. Panting also increases the airflow over the moist surfaces, enhancing evaporation and heat loss.

How Do I Train My Dog to Wear a Harness?

Enjoying a leisurely walk or adventurous hike with your dog is an incredible way to spend quality time together and strengthen your bond. However, a dog that pulls and lacks leash manners can quickly turn this fun experience upside down.While collars have long been the standard for walking, many veterinarians and trainers are now sharing the benefits of using a harness. They are generally safer and more comfortable for dogs of all ages.However, not every dog will instantly take to wearing a harness the first time they are introduced.In this guide, I will walk you through the steps of introducing a harness to your dog, building positive associations, and setting both you and your dog up for long-term success. From choosing the right harness to mastering the process of putting it on, you’ll be prepared to hit the pavement with your canine companion in style and comfort.What Are the Benefits of Using a Harness?Let's take a step back before I walk you through training your dog to wear a harness. Why should you consider using a harness for your dog? What benefits does it offer over a typical collar?The most significant difference between a collar and a harness, and the reason why most veterinarians and dog trainers recommend harnesses, is the risk of injury. When your dog wears a collar, all pressure is put directly on their throat. If your dog pulls or tries to take off after a temptation (like a squirrel or to play with another dog), the pressure on their throat can cause significant damage. In the most severe cases, the impact of the collar on your dog’s throat can cause a life-threatening injury.Harnesses, on the other hand (or the other paw), disperse the pressure across your dog’s chest. Not only is this a more extensive area, but it’s better suited for handling this pressure without injuries (assuming the harness is properly fit to your dog).Depending on the activities you plan to enjoy with your dog, a harness could introduce additional features. This could include harnesses and support to assist a senior dog with mobility, a cooling harness for hot summer days, a harness with built-in backpacks to carry their gear while hiking, seatbelt attachments for safe car travel, and more. What Age Should Your Dog Start Wearing a Harness?Eight weeks old is the earliest age you should put a harness onto a young puppy. At this age, puppies are generally very open to new skills and experiences, making it the perfect time to introduce something new. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t train your dog to wear a harness if you are considering making this change later in life. Many adults and even senior dogs learn to wear and love their harnesses with a bit of time and a little patience.How Long Does It Take a Dog to Get Used to a Harness? The time it will take for your dog to get used to a harness will vary from dog to dog. Some pups will accept the harness quickly, comfortably wearing it and running around confidently right away. However, this isn’t true for every dog.If your dog is older and set in their ways or nervous when faced with new experiences, working through these steps may take a lot longer. Be patient and focus on creating a positive association with the harness by introducing praise and rewards. Allow your dog to set the pace, moving from one step to the next only when they are ready. This is the best way to set them up for long-term success (the ultimate goal).How to Train Your Dog to Wear a Harness: Step-By-StepBefore you start training, take a moment to consider what motivates your dog. While most dogs can be motivated with high-value treats, you may find your dog is better inspired to try something new with the offer of playtime with a favorite toy or even with simple praise and attention from you, their person. Knowing this is the secret to training success!Step One – Choosing a HarnessThe first thing to consider is the style of harness best suited for your dog. There are several factors to consider when shopping for the right harness. This includes your dog’s size, the weight of the harness, the adjustability, the material, how easy it is to clean, and any special features the harness may offer.You may even need to consider different harnesses for different situations. For example, you may prefer a classic nylon harness for walks around the block with your pup. However, if you are planning a challenging hike, your dog may be better served by a stronger and more supportive adventure harness with a handle to assist with any obstacles along the way.Finding the correct harness is essential, as your training will focus on making that specific harness a positive trigger for your dog. For the training process to be effective, this harness should be used.Step Two – Introduce the HarnessIn the early stages of training, you’re not going to put the harness on your dog. Instead, you want to give them a chance to check it out and realize it’s not something to be afraid of.To begin, place the harness on the ground in the comfort of your own home. Allow your dog to sniff at it and look it over. As they interact with the harness, occasionally offer praise or a treat. This will start to introduce the idea that the harness brings good things.When you see that they give the harness no more interest than a rug or your shoes (assuming they don’t chew your shoes), you can move on to the next step.

Hundreds Wanted to Adopt a Swearing Parrot - Now He Has a Perfect Home

There is no doubt that parrots are masters of mimicking voices and talking. But what they learn from their owners is not always so nice. Pepper, a White-fronted Amazon parrot who now lives in Olean, New York, is a perfect example of that.Recently, Pepper has gone viral on social media, particularly for his foul, R-rated language, and rather… ”colorful” vocabulary. Pepper was known for swearing profusely, much to the amusement of all who met and saw him. However, the parrot recently went up for adoption – and hundreds hurled to provide him with a new home. So now, Pepper is settling in with his new owners.“We checked in with his adopters, Tiffany and Tim, yesterday, and they report Pepper is settling in nicely,” the New York SPCA wrote. “He hasn't cursed at them just yet, but we know it's coming. He loves his veggies and always greets his adopters when they walk in the room.”Interestingly, Pepper’s new owners already own a parrot – an African Grey – who likewise swears a lot, even more than his new friend. “We love that Pepper found his home with adopters who won't be phased by his colorful language, and who know their birds,” the SPCA said. “May Pepper have decades of issuing threats to his new family! Now, go kick some a$$, Pepper!”Trying to find out how exactly Pepper learned all these words, the SPCA learned that his last home was in Buffalo, New York. There he shared a home with a rather naughty dog. The owner often tried to get the doggo to listen by saying things like “Do you want me to kick your a**?” Naturally, Pepper was quick to pick up those words and add them to his growing vocabulary. "We can't wait to read updates on our potty-mouthed friend," the SPCA said in a statement. But the new owners said that Pepper is still staying somewhat polite, and hasn’t cursed at anyone just yet. But there is no doubt it’s coming. Pepper’s new owners created an Instagram page where they could document the everyday moments of their new pet. You can find their adventures under the handle, @twospicyparrots.The SPCA shared that prior to the adoption they received over 300 requests for Pepper, but were very careful about their choice as they wanted the parrot to go to a great home which would be his “forever home”. Now that is a happy ending for this potty-mouthed parrot!

Can I Get a Dog or Cat if I Have Allergies?

Your Environment and Pet AllergiesIn addition to responding to allergens directly from the pet, you must also consider how your home environment can contribute to your allergies. This will be particularly important when we discuss ways to reduce the problem and live happily with a pet.Take a moment to consider the surfaces in your home that could collect or transfer allergens. For example, carpets and rugs are notorious for collecting pet dander. They are also more challenging to clean than hardwood or tile floors. Beyond the flooring, this can also include bedding you are using for your pet, furniture your pet is allowed on, and even the toys they are given to play with.This isn’t to say that you must eliminate all surfaces that could contribute to your allergies. However, you should be aware of them so you can strategically reduce the risk. More on that to follow…The Best Pets for People with AllergiesYou may have heard the buzz about “hypoallergenic” pets and wondered if that’s the solution you have been looking for. The idea of an allergy-free dog or cat breed is tempting; I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t. Unfortunately, contrary to what you’ve been told, truly hypoallergenic pets don’t exist. There are, however, some pets that are far less likely to trigger an allergic reaction.Selecting the best dog or cat is easier when you’ve already gone through the process of being allergy tested. That way, you know precisely what to be on the lookout for. Some breeds are known to produce or release less dander into the environment, while others drool less.Dog breeds recommended for people with allergies include: Poodle Schnauzer Portuguese Water Dog Bichon Frise MalteseThese dog breeds are favorites of those with allergies primarily because they don’t shed as much as others. Several have curled coats, like the Poodle and Portuguese Water Dog, which not only shed less but can also trap dander and hair in the coat, reducing the amount released into your home.Mixed-breed dogs that include one or several of these breeds may also offer the same benefits; however, it’s not guaranteed. A poodle mix, for example, may inherit the poodle coat or the coat associated with another breed in the mix. This isn’t to say that a mixed-breed dog won’t be a good fit for your home; you just need to be aware of this to assess whether a dog you plan to adopt has the characteristics you need.Similarly, experts recommend cat breeds with shorter coats when selecting a cat. Some breeds are nearly hairless, reducing the spread of allergens as much as possible. Recommended cats for people with allergies include: Sphynx Devonshire Rex Cornish Rex Bengal Russian Blue

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