Rabbits can make great pets, but they require a gentle touch, good knowledge of proper care, and plenty of attention.

Here’s what to consider before adopting a rabbit.

Key Considerations Before Adoption

Lifespan: Healthy rabbits can live for more than 10 years. A rabbit may be with your family as long as a dog would and requires a similar level of care and attention.

Handling: Rabbits need safe, gentle handling and a quiet environment. As prey animals, they are easily startled and stressed by loud noises and fast movements. Improper handling can lead to serious injuries, like spinal fractures, and scared rabbits may deliver painful bites.

Housing: Rabbits need room for exercise and play. Provide at least an 8-square-foot pen for their “home base” and at least one bunny-proofed room for exercise. Outdoor hutches are not appropriate as they expose rabbits to predators and diseases.

Care and Feeding: The care of rabbits can be complex. Consult reliable resources like the House Rabbit Society or a veterinarian for detailed guidance.

Life with Rabbits

If you’re new to rabbits, here’s what to expect when sharing your home with one:

Daily Enclosure Maintenance: Clean your rabbit’s enclosure daily and thoroughly sanitize it weekly. Many rabbits can be litter trained, but they still produce a lot of waste.

Chewing Needs: Provide safe toys, hay, and cardboard for chewing. Rabbit teeth grow continuously and must be worn down naturally. Without proper options, they might chew on furniture or belongings.

Dietary Needs: Offer unlimited hay, fresh vegetables, and rabbit-safe pellets. Be cautious as some vegetables, like iceberg lettuce and onions, can harm rabbits.

Exercise and Play: Rabbits need several hours of playtime outside their pen daily to stay healthy and happy.

Social Interaction: Spend time interacting with your rabbit to keep them socialized. Rabbits are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active during dusk and dawn.

Companionship: Consider adopting multiple rabbits for companionship. Shelters can assist in finding compatible matches.

Veterinary Care: Find a rabbit-savvy veterinarian for regular checkups and emergencies.

Essential Items for Your Rabbit Starter Kit

A large pen or habitat (at least 8 square feet)

Water bowl or bottle

Litter boxes and rabbit-safe litter

Chew toys

Timothy hay (or alfalfa hay for rabbits under 1 year old)

Fresh vegetables and Timothy hay pellets

Occasional treats like fruits

Where to Get Your Bunny

Dear Lykkers, adopt your rabbit instead of buying from pet stores, which often source from unethical breeders. To find rabbits, search online or check local shelters and rescue organizations.

Benefits of Adoption: Rescues provide socialized, healthy rabbits. They often spay or neuter rabbits and vaccinate them against diseases like rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHDV2). They also provide valuable care tips and may help with rabbit introductions.

Preparing for Your Bunny’s Homecoming

Create a “rabbitat” in a quiet area with litter boxes, chew toys, and water.

Rabbit-proof your home by hiding wires, removing toxic plants, and providing safe toys.

Supervise interactions with other pets, introducing them slowly.

Stock up on your rabbit’s preferred hay and vegetables.

Monitor appetite and stool production closely as changes can signal health issues.

Avoid excessive handling in the first few days. Sit on the floor and let your rabbit come to you. Ensure their environment is quiet and that they have a safe sanctuary to retreat to.

Rabbits make delightful companions when properly cared for, offering endless moments of joy and love. Take the time to understand their needs, and you’ll be rewarded with a happy, healthy bunny.