Rabbits are cute and cuddly, but pet rabbit care requires quite a time commitment. Before bringing a rabbit into your home, you'll need to be prepared to house it, feed it and tend to its needs.
Housing and Housetraining
Domestic rabbits differ from wild rabbits. Domestic rabbits should live indoors. To construct a suitable living space, you'll need a roomy cage, a resting board, litter box, feed bowl, water bottle, pet carrier and toys. There should be room for the bunny to run. The cage should be at least five times the size of the rabbit. Cardboard works well for the floor of the cage.
Some rabbit owners allow their pet rabbits to roam freely through the house. In this case, you'll need to rabbit-proof the house. Rabbits like to chew on anything, so electrical cords need to be out of reach. Outlets must be covered. Poisonous plants and any household toxins need to be stored securely.
It's possible to housetrain a rabbit. Place a litter box in the corner of the cage the rabbit uses for waste. Use behavior modification and offer treats or praise when the rabbit uses the litter box.
Spay or Neuter
Spaying or neutering your pet bunny has multiple benefits. Not only does it limit the population, it also helps teach the bunny to use the litter box. Spaying or neutering reduces aggression in a rabbit. Often, rabbits will chew less on household materials after being fixed. Most rabbits that haven't been spayed or neutered will mark their territory due to an influx of hormones. Ask a veterinarian about spaying or neutering your pet.
Health Concerns
Rabbit health care is important. Rabbits are prone to several major health issues.
Digestive Tract. A rabbit's digestive tract contains healthy bacteria. Any imbalance can have deadly consequences for the rascally rabbit. Store rabbit food in a cool dry container. Introduce food changes slowly and in tiny amounts. Offer the food again if there is no abdominal gurgling or diarrhea in 24 hours.
Intestinal Blockage. Rabbits groom themselves. Hairballs are the result. Since rabbits are unable to vomit, a hairball can be fatal. Brush your bunny daily. Feed fresh hay and fresh vegetables every day. Plenty of exercise keeps the rabbit's system working properly.
Infection. Several rabbit diseases are treatable with antibiotics. A veterinarian will prescribe the right medicine.
Contact a veterinarian immediately in case of diarrhea, a loss of appetite, heavy breathing, runny nose, incontinence, swelling, or head tilt.
Feeding Time
Rabbits have a healthy appetite. Rabbit pellets can be purchased at a pet food store and be fed a limited amount each day. A handful of hay aids digestion. Fresh veggies or fruit can be added gradually. Feed only small amounts of barley or oats.
Raising a pet rabbit requires a time commitment. Being prepared for the cuddly creature will help you adjust to bringing a rabbit into your home.
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