Do you want to add a furry friend to your family? Rabbits can make wonderful pets, but they require special care. Here is everything you need to know about creating a happy and healthy life for your pet rabbit.
Keeping pet rabbits
Rabbits have been kept as pets for hundreds of years, and they have become increasingly popular over time. Domestic rabbits, which are the types of rabbits most commonly kept as pets, are a subspecies of the European wild rabbit. These rabbits have been bred for specific traits and characteristics for hundreds of years.
Rabbits are social animals and can form strong bonds with their owners. Many believe that they are relatively low-maintenance pets compared to other animals, such as cats and dogs, but this is not true! Rabbits can live for 8-12 years, and some breeds can even live for up to 15 years.
What you need to know before getting a rabbit
Before you decide to get a rabbit, there are a few things you should consider. Rabbits need regular grooming, daily attention, and a lot of space. They also need to be supervised when free-roaming as they can be prone to chewing on things they shouldn’t!
You also need to think about the financial implications of owning a rabbit. Rabbits require regular vet visits and high-quality food, as well as supplies such as litter boxes, runs and pens, and toys. All of these can add up quickly, so it’s important to make sure you can afford the costs of owning a rabbit before you decide to get one.
Rabbit housing
Rabbits require a lot of space to stay healthy and happy. The absolute minimum size enclosure for a single rabbit is 10 square feet, but larger is better. Housing your rabbit indoors is the best option (for many reasons!) and you can keep them in a large pen if you're not ready to have them free-roam around your home. Most commercially available rabbit hutches are far too small to be a viable housing option your rabbit.
Your rabbit will need a 'home base' to sleep and hide inside. It can be lined with blankets, towels, straw, or hay, which should be changed regularly. You should also provide your rabbit with natural toys, such as willow chew toys, to help keep them entertained and their teeth nice and trim!
Rabbit diet and nutrition
Rabbits require a diet high in fiber and low in fat. They should be fed fresh hay, fresh vegetables, and a small amount of high-quality pellets. Hay should make up the majority of their diet, as it helps keep their teeth healthy and promotes good digestion.
Vegetables should be given in small amounts and should be rotated regularly. Avoid giving your rabbit foods high in sugar, such as carrots and peas, as these can lead to weight gain.
Handling and bonding with your rabbit
Rabbits are social animals, so it’s important to spend time with them regularly. This will help your rabbit to bond with you and become comfortable with being handled. It’s also important to handle your rabbit correctly, as rabbits can easily be injured if they are not supported properly.
In no circumstances should you ever hold your rabbit by the ears or cradle them on their back like a baby. This is called 'trancing' and while they may appear 'relaxed' it is a very stressful and harmful position for them to be in.
When you start to handle your rabbit, make sure to do it slowly and gently. Stay on ground level, speak softly and reward your rabbit with treats for good behavior. Never punish a rabbit! It’s also important to provide your rabbit with plenty of time to rest after handling.
Rabbit health and vet visits
Rabbits require regular vet visits to stay healthy. Your vet can check your rabbit for any potential health issues and provide them with the necessary vaccinations. It’s also important to keep your rabbit’s nails trimmed and have their teeth checked regularly.
Your rabbit-savvy vet can also provide you with advice on how to care for your rabbit and help you to identify any potential health problems. It’s important to take your rabbit to the vet immediately if you notice any changes in their behavior, poo, or if they seem unwell.
Common rabbit health problems
Rabbits are prone to a variety of health problems, such as dental issues, digestive problems, and respiratory infections. It’s important to keep an eye on your rabbit’s health and seek veterinary help immediately if you notice any signs of illness. By bonding regularly with your rabbit, you're more likely to spot signs of illness as they are good at hiding it.
Other common health problems in rabbits include ear mites, e.cuniculi, fly-strike, and fur mites. These can be treated with medications prescribed by your vet. It’s also important to keep your rabbit’s environment clean and free of any potential hazards.
Exercise and mental stimulation for rabbits
Rabbits need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Provide your rabbit with toys and obstacles to explore, such as tunnels and cardboard boxes. You should also provide your rabbit with plenty of space to run and play.
Rabbits also need plenty of mental stimulation, so make sure to spend time with them regularly. You can also provide them with puzzle toys, such as treat balls and cardboard boxes, to help keep them entertained.
Grooming your rabbit
Rabbits require regular grooming to stay healthy. Brush your rabbit at least once a week and check them for any signs of parasites, such as fleas and mites. You should also trim their nails every few weeks and check their eyes and ears for any signs of discharge.
It’s also important that you do not bathe your rabbit. They are extremely clean animals in their own right and you'll often find them grooming themselves regularly. If your rabbit becomes overweight or has mobility issues, they may struggle to groom themselves. In this case, you should gently wipe any dirt or poo away with a damp cloth. By having a bonded pair, their mate can also groom them.
Rabbits can make wonderful pets, but they require more care than might first meet the eye. With the right care and attention, your rabbit can live a long and happy life. Give your rabbit the best life by providing them with the right housing, diet, and daily care.