Springtime often means a bunch of new bunny purchases. However, they have specific care requirements that are quite different than cats and dogs.
The popularity of rabbits as a pet has grown in leaps and bounds, according to the Humane
Society of the United States. They’re now the third most popular pet choice. Here’s what you should know about their care and feeding:
Family Time
Rabbits typically live in large groups in the wild, so their habitats should take their social nature into account. They should have a cozy and quiet place to sleep, but at the same time have a space where they can interact with everyone. They love castles or other places to hide and to jump from.
Make sure there’s a large litter box, since they’re very clean animals. And include lots of grass and grass-based chew toys for them to play with and enjoy.
Bunny Proofing
Rabbits love to chew on things, and they’re naturally curious. This can lead to some pretty
destructive behavior in the average home, where they may have access to rugs, molding, wiring and important paperwork.
Cover exposed wires and extension cords with flex tubing, and block areas where your pet can’t play safely with baby barriers. Like their habitats, these gates should be made of metal and have slats that aren’t so wide that the bunny can slip through.
What’s For Dinner
Rabbits actually need a lot more grass hay than they need carrots. Make sure they have plenty of fresh water. They love many vegetables, including some lettuce and greens, celery, clover, basil and parsley, among others. Just make sure they are free of pesticides.
Commercial pellet foods often have many of these key ingredients; check with your veterinarian to see which one is right for your pet. Some fruits are great for use as an occasional treat, including bananas, strawberries, apples with the seeds removed and raspberries, among others.
Life Expectancy
The typical well-cared-for rabbit lives 7 to 10 years. They should be spayed or neutered, just like cats and dogs – and for the same reasons: to limit their ever-growing population, and also to help with some behavioral issues. Just remember that they have specific other needs that are quite different from cats or dogs, and that you may have difficulty in finding a credentialed caregiver depending on where you live.