Choosing Rabbits as Pets

People who have never experienced having a bunny as a house pet are surprised to discover the social nature of these animals. Like dogs or cats, rabbits have their own personality traits. One rabbit may be shy while another is outgoing. Additionally, like dogs or cats, rabbits have care needs specific to their species that pet owners need to be aware of. Understanding the needs and habits of rabbits is necessary before bringing one as a pet into the home.

Other Pets

Consider the pets that already live in the home and how they might react to a rabbit. For example, if going to a shelter to look at bunnies, bring your dog with you, keeping him on leash, to see how they react to one another. Many dogs, such as Jack Russell Terriers, are hunting dogs by breed and may not prove a suitable housemate for a rabbit.

Housing

Never house a bunny exclusively outside. Many rabbit predators are capable of breaking into these enclosures. Additionally, like any other pet, rabbits need shelter from the elements. Also, bunnies are social pets and want to be part of the family.

Keeping a rabbit in his hutch when unsupervised is advisable. Young or untrained rabbits may chew wires or get into other mischief.

Bunnies need sufficient room to move when crated. The House Rabbit Society suggests a space of at least four times the rabbit's size full-grown.

Hutches with wire flooring do not provide the best care for bunnies. It is possible for their feet to get caught, presenting a risk of injury. These floors also cause long-term damage to their feet. If using a wire hutch, make sure to line the floor with cardboard. Never use carpeting inside a rabbit hutch, as chewing and ingesting carpet causes serious and potentially life threatening health hazards.

Feeding

Rabbit pellets provide bunnies with the nutrition they need. Provide the rabbit with Timothy hay at all times, which is another essential element to his diet.

Water must always be available for the rabbit. Options for providing water to bunny include water bottles or bowls.

Litter Training

Litter training a rabbit is a simple task. They typically choose a corner in their new space to use as a toilet. Place the litter box in that corner and put in some of his droppings; this usually does the trick very quickly.

Never use clumping cat litter for a bunny. As part of their digestive process, a bunny will consume his own droppings to recycle digestive bacteria. Digesting the clumping litter could present a serious health hazard.

Veterinarians

Not every veterinarian has extensive knowledge in treating rabbits. Before deciding on a vet for your new bunny, make sure that he has training and experience in treating rabbits.