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Can pet rabbits chew wires? What are the fire and safety risks?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Other Pet - Not Listed | Female | spayed | 1000 lbs

Thank you for a very informative article. We live in a flat and are looking at getting two indoor rabbits (maybe mini lops) as the current management company are not keen on cats. One objection that has been raised is that they could chew through wires and cause a fire but I can not find anything on the internet relating to this. Would you be able to advise. Kind regards Dawn

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 6th, 2018

It is definitely possible that bunnies could chew through electrical cords. This does pose a risk for electrocution. I have not heard of any fires started as a result of this, but I suppose it is possible. This is a great article on bunny proofing your home: http://myhouserabbit.com/rabbit-care/bunny-proofing-your-house/ . There are protective sleeves you can purchase to go over the cording or you can reroute cords so they are high up or behind furniture so they are not able to access the cords. Another option is a large pen that can be set up so your bunnies have room to roam but not access to things they shouldn't chew! Great job on preparing for your bunny!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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