Toby Hurst
Thumper resting in her playpen
If you are thinking about bringing home a small, cuddly pet bunny for this spring, you might want to think again. Keeping a healthy rabbit takes lots of time, work, and money. There are a lot of myths surrounding owning a rabbit, and because of this, many rabbits suffer in the spring months.
During Easter, most pet rabbits are adopted, and 80% of these rabbits will die or will be abandoned within a year. Most of these deaths are caused by a lack of correct information about owning a rabbit.
When shopping for a rabbit this Easter, consider that rabbits are very social creatures and will become depressed without a rabbit friend. A depressed rabbit can eventually die from severe depression.
Rabbits need a lot of attention, 3-5 hours a day, but the way you give your rabbit attention could kill it. High-stress activities, like bathing your rabbit, can lead to heart attacks and many other health issues.
Cuddling is a big no with rabbits, it will scare them and likely get you injured. Most rabbits hate to be held and cuddled, though every rabbit is different, and some might enjoy cuddles.
A common misconception is that rabbits can live in small, wire-bottom cages, but in reality, the ideal way for a rabbit to live is to live like a cat, free-roaming in your house. Housing your rabbit in a 24-square-foot playpen is also an acceptable cage. Having the wrong cage can seriously injure or kill your pet.
Rabbits, who, funnily enough, are known for their carrot diet. can’t eat carrots regularly due to the sugar. Rabbit’s diets should be 85% hay, 10% leafy greens, and 5% pellets according to the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund.
A popular way to give small animals water is through a water bottle feeder, however, this can lead to dehydration and eventually death. Instead, use a water bowl so your pet can drink all the water they need.
Rabbit mistreatment doesn’t start in your home, but most likely in the store. Rabbits are the third most abandoned pet, so there is always a surplus in the shelters.
This spring, make sure to do proper research and prepare to bring home your new pet.