What Actually Happens During a Drop-In Visit for Rabbits?

If you’ve ever had to travel and leave your bunny at home, you know how stressful it can feel. Not just for you, but for your rabbit too. Rabbits are sensitive animals—creatures of habit that don’t always respond well to change. That’s why more and more rabbit owners are choosing drop-in visits as a safe, low-stress alternative to boarding or leaving their pet alone for long hours.

But what exactly is a drop-in visit? And what happens during one?

As a professional rabbit sitter who serves the Silver Spring, Rockville and surrounding areas, I’ve helped dozens of families give their bunnies the peace of mind they deserve while they’re away. In this post, I’ll walk you through what actually happens during a drop-in visit, what to expect, and how it benefits your rabbit’s wellbeing.

What Is a Drop-In Visit for Rabbits?

A drop-in visit means a trusted sitter comes to your home once or twice a day (or as needed) to check on your bunny, provide food and fresh hay, clean litter boxes, refresh water, and spend quiet, quality time with your pet.

Unlike pet boarding, your rabbit gets to stay in their own space, with familiar smells, sounds, and routines. This makes a huge difference for animals who are easily startled or stressed by environmental changes.

Why Rabbits Need In-Home Care (Not Just a Food Bowl)

Rabbits aren’t low-maintenance animals. They can develop issues quickly if not monitored closely, especially during stressful situations like when you're away. Some key reasons in-home drop-in care is essential:

• Rabbits hide illness. A good sitter knows what signs to watch for

• They need daily cleanup. Litter boxes, hay trays, and water bowls must be fresh.

• They can get lonely. Social interaction helps keep them calm.

• Routines matter. Rabbits are creatures of habit and do best when their schedule stays consistent.

So what does that look like in a real-life visit?

What Happens During a Typical Drop-In Visit

Every sitter is different, but here’s how I personally structure a rabbit drop-in visit (usually 20 to 45 minutes depending on care needs):

1. Arrival & Check-In

• I quietly enter the home and announce myself softly so I don’t startle your bunny.

• I do a quick visual check: Is your rabbit alert? Are they in their usual resting spots?

• I check for any signs of illness (wet nose, unusual posture, lack of interest in food, excessive hiding).

2. Food & Water Refresh

• I remove any uneaten veggies or hay that needs replacing.

• I provide fresh greens (based on your bunny’s regular diet).

• Hay trays are topped off generously with fresh Timothy, orchard grass, or any specific blends you provide.

• I clean and refill water bowls or bottles with clean, room-temperature water.

3. Litter Box + Habitat Maintenance

• Scoop litter boxes thoroughly, checking for normal stool and urine output.

• Sweep or tidy up hay areas or floor mats as needed.

• If the bunny free roams, I do a quick sweep of their favorite corners.

4. Enrichment Time

• I sit on the floor near your rabbit and allow them to come to me.

• Some rabbits will hop into my lap, others just like to sit nearby.

• I offer safe chew toys, a small treat (if allowed), or gentle head rubs if your bunny is social.

This isn’t playtime in the traditional sense. It’s quiet companionship that helps your rabbit feel safe and not forgotten while you’re away.

5. Final Notes + Check-Out

• I double-check doors, gates, and pet-proofing.

• I send you a short update (and usually a photo) via text, letting you know how your bunny is doing.

Common Questions About Drop-In Bunny Visits

How long can I leave my rabbit with just drop-ins?

It depends on your rabbit's age, health, and temperament. Most healthy adult rabbits do well with 1–2 visits a day for up to a week. I always advise at least one visit per day, no matter how independent your rabbit seems.

Do rabbits get lonely with just drop-ins?

They can. But daily contact with a calm, consistent sitter goes a long way. I often recommend leaving soft music on, providing toys, or giving your rabbit a plush buddy to snuggle with between visits.

What if my rabbit is shy?

That’s completely okay. I move slowly, speak softly, and let your bunny come to me. Trust is everything. My goal is to maintain their routine, not overwhelm them.

What Makes a Good Rabbit Sitter?

Not all sitters are created equal. If you’re searching for someone to care for your rabbit, look for:

• Experience with small animals (not just dogs/cats)

• Knowledge of rabbit body language and health red flags

• Willingness to follow detailed feeding and care instructions

• Calm energy and patience

• Ability to provide updates and photos

Final Thoughts: Drop-Ins Aren’t Just Convenience—They’re Compassion

When you choose drop-in visits for your rabbit, you’re not just keeping their belly full. You’re protecting their peace of mind. You’re honoring how delicate and sensitive they really are.

If you’re in the Silver Spring or Rockville area and looking for a kind, attentive rabbit sitter who understands how to meet your bunny where they are, I’d love to chat.

Reach out today to book a visit or ask questions—your rabbit deserves care that feels like home.