Bunny basics
Is a Rabbit Right For You?
You're obviously here because you're thinking about it, so let's talk about it! What questions should you ask yourself before you get a rabbit?
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Do you have the time? Rabbits require a lot of time. They are messy, so they require lots of clean-up. All time outside their enclosed area should be spent under very close supervision. You should expect to spend at least 4 hours a day caring for / cleaning / monitoring your rabbit.
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Do you have the money? Rabbits require annual veterinary care just like dogs and cats. Because rabbits are considered "exotic animals", their general care is more expensive, and only certain veterinarians will see them. Rabbits also need to be spayed and neutered at about 6 months of age. They are prone to illness, so it is important to monitor their health and behavior at all times. Another big part of the financial commitment to your rabbit is the cost of food. Rabbits require fresh (preferably organic) vegetables and unlimited hay daily. They can also be rather destructive if they aren't watched closely, so those behaviors can come at a cost!
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Do you have the space? Rabbits require a lot of space. In their daily living quarters, they should have at least 2 sq ft per 1lb of weight. So, if your rabbit is 5 pounds, his enclosure should be at least 10 square feet (2ft x 5ft). Rabbits should ideally be housed inside (see habitats for more information about this!), so you'll want to make sure you have ample indoor space. If you don't have the space to provide the appropriate enclosure, you should extend your rabbit's free-roaming time as much as possible. Exercise is vital, as it provides mental stimulation and reduces the chances of weight gain.
4. Are you old enough? Rabbits are not ideal pets for children. In my personal experience, they are not good pets for kids under the age of 14 or 15. Of course, this depends on the rabbit and the child, but younger children are generally not responsible enough to care for a rabbit properly. The responsibility will likely end up falling on the parent. Rabbits do not like to be held, as they are prey animals. It goes against their instincts to have their feet lifted off the ground. Rabbits that are handled roughly or under a lot of stress can develop behavioral problems and aggression, and that's not safe for a child or the rabbit!
5. Have you done your research? If you're here, you're looking in the right direction! Read all that you can, especially from university or educational sources. Blogs and youtube channels like mine can be used for supplemental information, but it's always best to research using scholarly articles or talk to a veterinarian. I try to base the information in my videos and blogs on my medical experience and university education, but you should always do your own research!