So You Want to Adopt a Rabbit? There Are Some Things You Need To Know
One look at a cute, furry rabbit with its adorable little nose wiggle and floppy ears and you’ll want to take it home. Bunnies do make great pets, but before you take the leap (or hop, in this case), be prepared. They have different needs than cats or dogs, and we’ll help set you on the right path to be the best rabbit parent possible.
Pet rabbits are small and quiet, but they still depend on you for their basic needs and affection for the 8 to 10 years they live, on average.
Rabbit Housing Needs
Toss out any vision you have of an old-fashioned rabbit hutch and a bag of pellets for food. Now that we know better, we can do better. Rabbits need a suitably sized exercise pen with plenty of space to move around comfortably, hold food and water, and a litter box. (Yes, rabbits can be litter trained!) Your bunny will need plenty of space to free roam every day to stretch their little legs and get in some play.
Playtime and Enrichment
And they will play! Wooden sticks for chewing, hay balls, and even cardboard tubes can provide enrichment. You’ll want to make sure bun-bun only plays with and chews things that are safe, so bunny proof before you bring them home.
Happy Rabbits
Rabbits all have their own personality, just like humans, but for the most part they tend to be curious, playful, and social pets that enjoy being around their people. When they’re happy and relaxed, they’ll make a purring sound by clicking their teeth together. Another way they’re similar to cats is their tendency to rub their chins on things (and people) as a way of marking their territory.
Rabbit Diet Basics
Aside from proper housing, you’ll need to provide a good diet that includes lots of hay and leafy greens, pellets in moderation, and the occasional berry or banana as a treat.
The first time your newly adopted bunny purrs or rubs its chin on you will be a very happy day. Download our Rabbit Care 101 info booklet for more details on the do’s and don’ts of rabbit care, and check out the bunnies who are here and ready for their forever homes. Now go get those chin rubs!
