Rabbits are a peculiar bunch, so much is for sure. They can be great pets and fluffy companions, but they’re also very sensitive creatures and therefore require that special extra care.
They might be quick and quirky little fellows, but a few things should be known before getting one. So if you’re considering buying a rabbit or already own one, make sure to check out our brief guidelines for bunny owners below.
Give Your Bunny Enough Room
You must give your rabbit adequate housing in order for him to function properly. Specifically, the cage should be six times larger than the adult bunny – 3 x 2 x 1.5 feet is usually the proper size. Furthermore, the cage must have a soft bottom part so the rabbit doesn’t sleep on the wire. Finally, provide your lovable hopper with a big litter box within the cage.
Keep an Eye on Your Hopper and Handle It Properly
Rabbits can be very unpredictable creatures and get themselves into trouble in a blink of an eye. And we’re not talking about bird predators or anything like that, but the hazards within your own house.
Deadly electrical wires and toxic materials are just some of the few potentially lethal items, so don’t let the little guy wander around too much. As for the handling, bunnies don’t like to be held, especially the older ones, so you’ll have to be pleased with just a few occasional fondles here and there.
Know What Food to Prepare
If you want your pet to grow healthy, you must feed him with proper food. When it comes to rabbits, they need almost infinite supply of fresh food and prefer such nutritients as timothy and oat hay. Other favorites include carrot tops, parsley, cilantro and more. Also make sure that you always provide a sufficient amount of fresh water.
Stay in Touch With the Vet
Rabbits are prone to quickly succumbing to diseases, so you must keep a good veterinarian’s number close at all times. It might sound a bit tedious, but contacting the vet whenever your bunny loses appetite, strains while urinating or shows any signs of illness is the only way to go.
Spaying and Neutering
This one comes as a crucial point, so definitely pay attention. Spaying and neutering after four months of age can significantly extend the life of your bunny. As a matter of fact, it can live 10 or more years, but only if spayed and neutered at the given age. It will improve their health drastically and ensure them a better life, so this one’s a clear must for every rabbit owner.
Hopefully these tips have helped you a bit in your decision to get yourself a bunny. If owning a hopper sounds like too much of an obligation, you might want to consider a simple pair of bunny slippers. If not, by all means delve further.