Are Rabbits Good Pets? Information on Pet Rabbits

Are rabbits good pets?  I mean really.  Sure they may look cute, furry and easy to deal with in the pet store window, but there are some serious things that you need to think about before you buy a pet rabbit.

Here is a list of things to consider before you buy a pet rabbit.

Contrary to what it may look like when the rabbits is all cute and docile in it’s care, they can be difficult to handle. Rabbits often do not like being picked up and when afraid they can kick, bite and even scratch.

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Rabbits are natural chewers, so you will need to “rabbit proof” things in your house that your rabbit will be allowed access to, this includes electrical cords and wires, furniture and anything else at “rabbit level” that they can bite or gnaw on. You will also need to buy your rabbit suitable chewing toys for your rabbit.

Rabbits that are not neutered will usually display territorial marking. Male and female rabbits who are house pets should be neutered. This will decrease the risk of territorial marking, aggression and the tendency to chew. Most rabbits are neutered between the ages of 3½ and 6 months.

Rabbits have certain health concerns you should be aware of: House rabbits will need regular veterinary health exams, just like other pets. Overgrown teeth, foot problems, digestive problems, and respiratory diseases are the most common disease conditions, and are more common in rabbits who are not housed correctly or given the proper diet. Before acquiring a rabbit, identify a knowledgeable veterinarian in your area who may also be helpful in providing you a good source for healthy rabbits.

Rabbits require exercise and should not be kept isolated in a small cage, but be allowed to move about in a rabbit proofed room. The backyard may also be an option, but MAKE SURE there are no pesticides or chemicals on the lawn or your rabbit will get sick and you have your rabbit in an enclosed area.

Rabbits like all other pets require a time commitment.  They will need daily attention to their diet, fresh water, and clean cages.  To prevent obesity, most adult rabbits should be fed twice a day without having the pellets always available.  They need daily attention such as grooming, affection, and mental stimulation.  Rabbits are extremely social and do not do well in isolation.

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Potential rabbit owners may only consider the cost of the rabbit and cage, and not realize there will be regular annual costs as well as food, bedding, veterinary care, grooming, and flea prevention items, and an unending supply of chew toys.  You will also need to have:

• A litter box
• Cleaning supplies such as litter scoop, disinfectant, small vacuum cleaner or broom
• Food dishes (ceramic) and water dishes/bottles
• Bedding (aspen chips, paper, straw)
• A small sturdy carrier (for travelling and trips to the veterinarian)
• Chew toys
• Grooming items
• Flea preventives, if needed
• Food items: fresh pellets, hay, fresh vegetables

So whatever your decision is on determining are rabbits good pets, keep in mind that properly cared-for rabbits make excellent, long-lived pets.  Good luck.

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