Could a Rabbit Be the Right Pet for You?
If you’re looking for a pet that fits neatly into your 9 to 5 schedule, a rabbit just might be the perfect choice! Most animal shelters adopt out rabbits, and there are rabbit rescues across the country, so finding the right one for you shouldn’t be too difficult. Here are some tips to help you decide if a rabbit is the right pet for you.
Are You a Rabbit Person?
Rabbits are the ideal pet for apartment dwellers and busy professionals who work all day. They don’t require a lot of space, they don’t have to be walked, and they like to sleep all day. Rabbits get the most active in the evening and generally sleep through the night, too. Rabbits can even be trained to use a litter box, so you can allow them to wander freely in your house just like a cat. Just be prepared to keep chewable items put up and provide a cage for them to sleep in while you’re at work.
The Perfect Home for a Pet Rabbit
You should rabbit-proof your home carefully before you adopt a rabbit. Get down on your hands and knees and look for loose wires or other objects that your rabbit might be tempted to chew on. Secure or conceal anything that could be a danger to your new pet.
Even if you plan to let your new pet roam the house at times, you should still provide a cage for him to sleep in when you’re not home. The cage must be four to five times the full-grown body length of your rabbit, and it should be tall enough for him to stand up on his hind legs. Wood shavings are the best option for bedding because they’re absorbent and easy to change. Be sure to provide a litter box, too.
Be sure to provide your rabbit with some acceptable things to chew on. They must chew to keep their teeth at the right size. Wooden rabbit toys are a great option.
Feeding Your Rabbit
The bulk of your rabbit’s diet should be timothy hay and rabbit pellets. Fresh vegetables, like leaf lettuce, carrots, and herbs are all fine, but not in excess. Keep sugary fruits like bananas and apples to a minimum.
Playtime and Exercise
Rabbits love outdoor play time, but they must be protected from predators, including dogs, hawks, and owls. They also love to dig, so make sure any outdoor play areas have a wire or solid bottom to prevent escape. Rabbits are playful creatures! They love to play with toys, climb, and even play chasing games. They often enjoy cuddles and might even like to snuggle on the couch.
If you do decide to adopt a pet rabbit, be sure to find a qualified vet in your area. You may need to choose an exotic animal vet because some small animal vets don’t work with rabbits. Be sure to provide annual checkups, just like you would for any other pet and have your new pet spayed or neutered to prevent hormone-related cancers.
