Rabbits are adorable and fluffy creatures that can make great pets. However, they require a specific level of care to stay healthy and happy. This guide will help you understand the dos and don’ts of rabbit care, so you can ensure your pet lives a long and fulfilling life.
Do Provide Adequate Space
Rabbits are social animals and need plenty of space to run and play. A general rule of thumb is to provide at least four square feet of space per rabbit. This can be accomplished by getting a large cage or pen, or by allowing your rabbit to roam freely in a rabbit-proofed room. If you opt for a cage, make sure it is big enough for your rabbit to stand up on its hind legs, stretch out and take a few hops.
Don’t Feed Them an Unbalanced Diet
A balanced diet is essential for rabbits to maintain good health. You should feed your rabbit hay, fresh vegetables, and a small amount of pellets. Timothy hay is the best type of hay for rabbits and should be available to them at all times. Fresh vegetables like lettuce, carrots, and kale are also important, but they should only be fed in small quantities to prevent digestive upset. Pellets should be fed in limited quantities, as they are high in carbohydrates and can lead to weight gain.
Do Provide Them with Fresh Water
Rabbits need fresh water at all times to stay hydrated. A water bottle that attaches to the side of the cage is the easiest way to provide water. Make sure the water bottle is cleaned regularly and filled with fresh water daily.
Don’t Overhandle Them
Rabbits are naturally timid animals and can become easily stressed. Overhandling can cause them to become nervous and aggressive. When handling your rabbit, always support its entire body and avoid grabbing it by the ears. It is also important to give your rabbit plenty of time to get used to your presence before trying to handle it.
Do Clean Their Living Space Regularly
Rabbits are clean animals and need a clean living space to stay healthy. The cage or pen should be cleaned once a week and the bedding should be changed regularly. The litter box should also be cleaned daily to prevent odors.
Don’t Neglect Their Exercise Needs
Rabbits need plenty of exercise to maintain good health and prevent obesity. Allowing them to roam freely in a rabbit-proofed room or providing them with toys to play with are both great ways to ensure they get enough exercise. You can also take your rabbit for walks on a harness or provide it with a large exercise pen.
Do Groom Them Regularly
Rabbits have soft and delicate fur that needs to be groomed regularly. Grooming helps prevent hairballs and other digestive problems, as well as keeping their coat shiny and healthy. You should brush your rabbit at least once a week, paying special attention to the areas behind its ears and under its chin.
Don’t Ignore Health Issues
Rabbits are prone to several health problems, including dental problems, digestive problems, and tumors. It is important to keep an eye out for any changes in your rabbit’s behavior or appearance and to seek veterinary care if necessary. Regular check-ups and vaccinations are also important to prevent and treat any health issues that may arise.
In conclusion, rabbits make great pets, but they require a specific level of care to stay healthy and happy. By following the dos and don’ts outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your rabbit has a long and fulfilling life. Here are a few more dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do Provide a Place for Them to Hide
Rabbits feel safest when they have a place to hide, such as a box or a tunnel. This will give them a sense of security and help reduce stress.
Don’t Bathe Them Too Often
Rabbits are clean animals and do not require frequent baths. In fact, bathing them too often can cause skin irritation and lead to other health problems. If your rabbit gets dirty, you can spot clean the affected area with a damp cloth.
Do Give Them Attention
Rabbits are social animals and need plenty of attention to stay happy. Spending time with your rabbit each day, playing with it and offering it treats, will help strengthen your bond and keep it happy.
Don’t Leave Them Alone for Long Periods of Time
Rabbits are social animals and should not be left alone for long periods of time. If you must leave your rabbit alone, make sure it has plenty of food, water, and a place to hide.
Do Keep Them Cool
Rabbits are sensitive to heat and can easily overheat. Make sure your rabbit’s living space is well-ventilated and free from direct sunlight. You can also provide them with a cooling mat or frozen bottle of water during hot weather.
Don’t Keep Them in a Room with Loud Noises
Rabbits are sensitive to noise and can become easily stressed. Make sure your rabbit’s living space is in a quiet room, away from loud noises like televisions and music.
Do Provide Them with Toys
Rabbits need plenty of stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Providing them with toys, such as balls, tunnels, and chew toys, will keep them entertained and help prevent boredom.
Don’t Put Them in a Room with Other Pets
Rabbits are prey animals and can easily become frightened by other pets. Make sure your rabbit’s living space is in a room away from other pets to prevent stress and potential harm.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure your rabbit has a happy and healthy life. Remember to seek veterinary care if you notice any changes in your rabbit’s behavior or appearance.
Dr Bryan Goodchild
Dr Bryan Goodchild,” has spent his life working toward better health for pets and the people who love them. He is the founder of Likeablepets.com , which works to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress in pets by inspiring and educating the people who care for them.
