Rabbits are becoming more common as domestic pets. However, not many people are aware of how to care for rabbits properly. Improper care of pet rabbits can cause them various health issues. If you are a new rabbit parent, this post will help you take better care of your rabbit. 

Here are some basic rabbit facts: 

Life Span: 8 years on average 

Size: 8 to 20 inches 

Diet: Vegetables, fruits, hay 

Cage 

When choosing a cage, you need to choose one which can allow them to stand on their hind legs without hitting their heads on the top of the cage. Make sure the cage has space for a litter box and a resting area. Choose a cage that is made out of metal or any indestructible material. Place the cage in a cool and well-ventilated area. If the place is too hot, your rabbit can potentially suffer from fatal heat stroke. 

Exercise

Do note that your rabbit should not be kept in the cage at all times. Rabbits need their daily exercise to stay healthy. Thus, they need to be let out into a larger exercise area to run, jump and move around for at least a few hours every day. You can either let your rabbit have free access to the home or you can buy a pen. The pen should be at least 3 feet tall so as to keep them from potential dangerous materials at home. Additionally, you can put the pen outside to allow your bunny access to grassy areas but never leave them unsupervised. 

If you decide to let your rabbit roam your house freely, you will need to rabbit-proof the area. Remember to block all escape routes and block all electrical cords. Furthermore, you can cover your furniture to protect it from teeth and claws. Importantly, remove all toxic plants, insecticides, rodenticides and other toxins. 

Litter Box

Rabbits can be litter box trained.

1. Restrict your bunny to a small area

2. Place the litter box in the corner. 

3. Choose somewhere which your rabbit had already chosen to go to the bathroom

4. The sides of the litter box should be low enough so the rabbit can get in and out without difficulty.

5. Place some droppings and hay in the litter box to encourage your rabbit to use it. 

Side note: there should be one more litter box provided than the number of bunnies in the home. 

Consider using pellet litter in the litter box. Pelleted litter is not toxic and digestible if ingested. Additionally, it draws moisture away from the surface which keeps it dry and odour-free. Avoid clay or clumping kitty litter as your bunny may ingest it which can cause fatal intestinal blockage. 

Resting Area

Some bunnies prefer an enclosed box to hide in. You can use a straw woven house, litter pan, or a cardboard box with an entrance hole. If their cage has a wire floor, you should provide a solid area for them to rest. Make sure that the material is washable or disposable. Try not to use carpet squares because they are not absorbent. Furthermore, they are abrasive to their feet and cannot be cleaned. 

Toys

Bunnies should be provided with plenty of toys for mental stimulation. Additionally, the toys can help wear down the teeth. You can purchase dry branches from untreated trees, wooden chew toys or straw baskets, like Oxbow Enriched Small Animal Toys and Momi Grass Woven Balls. Bunnies like things that can move, so you can use toilet paper rolls, small empty cardboard cartons or air filled balls.  

Rabbit’s Diet 

Rabbits are herbivores, and their daily diet should consist mostly of hay. The illustration above shows the amount of food that should be given to your bunny. Importantly, rabbits should always have access to fresh water. Use a water bottle attached to the side of the cage and refresh the water daily. 

Rabbit’s Behaviour & Temperament

Rabbits are social creatures. They are quite tame, playful, and entertaining to watch. Many bunnies can learn to respond to their name. They often have close bonds with their owners and like to be around them. Additionally, they enjoy being on their feet on the ground and cuddling up next to their owners for petting. If improperly handled, they might scratch. Rabbits require gentle care which means they are not typically a good match for children who don’t understand gentle handling. 

Common Health Problems 

Rabbits are prone to certain medical problems and those are:

• Digestive issues 
• Eye problems
• Respiratory infections 
• Skin issues 

Some bunnies may experience overgrown teeth which can be worn down by chew toys. If your bunny has overgrown teeth, it can make it difficult for them to eat or drink. Thus, you will need to bring them to the vet to get it trimmed. 

Grooming Rabbits

Rabbits groom themselves. You can brush their fur to help remove loose fur and hairball prevention. For short-hair rabbits, you can brush them roughly once a week. Long-hair rabbits require brushing daily to prevent tangles. 

Baths are not necessary but you can spot clean dirty parts of your rabbit’s coat by gently rubbing it with a damp cloth. 

They need nail trims because they do not naturally wear down. If you are unsure how to trim them, your vet can show you how to do it properly. 

Similar Exotic Pets to Rabbit 

If you are interested in rabbits, you might also be interested in these other exotic pets:

• Caring for a Chinchilla
• How to Take Care of Guinea Pigs 
• Taking Care of Your Hamster