03/28/2024
Sharing this from last year! If anyone is looking for a last minute Easter present- get them a stuffed rabbit instead!
Rabbit ownership can be fun and rewarding, but it can also be hard. They have special needs and are not good pets for young children or anyone that doesn’t understand their needs.
Here are some things about rabbits as pets everyone should be aware of!
🐰 Rabbits can live up to 10 years- so they require a huge commitment.
🐰 Rabbits require a large space to run around and excercise.
🐰 Rabbits are very smart and require regular enrichment to keep them from becoming bored (they love toys and food puzzles)!
🐰 Just like dogs and cats, rabbits should be spayed/neutered as they are at risk to cancers and exhibit hormonal behaviours when they are not fixed.
🐰 When holding a rabbit, you must always support their back end- if their back legs are not supported, they can kick backwards and actually break their spine!!! So, you cannot pickup these animals as simply as you would a cat. This is a major reason why they should not be pets for young children.
🐰 They have a very particular diet as their GI system is the same as a horse. They must always have access to hay and water, as well as have mixed greens daily and only a small amount of pellets.
🐰 Rabbits teeth continually grow, and most require routine dental work at the vet. They have teeth in the back of their mouths that cannot be seen without a special instrument. These teeth often will grow unevenly- even digging into their cheeks and tongue. Because they are prey animals, they frequently mask their pain. So, they need regular wellness trips to the vet to monitor these teeth and make sure they are healthy.
If you are thinking about getting a rabbit and have questions- send us an email! We’re happy to help get you started! Do not get one without understanding the major commitment that comes with your new bunny.
