There's no question that rabbits are cute, soft and fuzzy, but is
a rabbit the best pet for your family? People are drawn to rabbits
because they are quiet and don't need as much space as other pets.
While
most are relatively easy to care for, rabbits do have specific housing
and health needs. There are a variety of breeds that tend to have
different temperaments, so it is important that you choose one that will
get along well with your family.
As you consider adopting a
rabbit there is a lot to think about, both for your family and to make
sure your new friend has what he needs to be healthy and happy.
What is Your Family Like?
First,
consider your family. What are the ages of your family members and what
kind of lifestyle do they lead? Rabbits can be good pets for children,
but if you have a toddler be ready to supervise her interaction with the
new pet. Toddlers are tempted to tightly hold and snuggle rabbits,
which can make them feel uncomfortable and scared, which isn't a good
scenario for the pet or the child.
Rabbits need to be handled
gently and should never be chased or handled roughly. Some rabbits don't
enjoy being picked up and may kick, bite or scratch if they are
frightened. When a rabbit is scared or doesn't like how he is being
handled, he may struggle or try to jump away, which could cause him to
hurt the person holding him or himself.
Another thing to think
about is what kind of lifestyle your family has. Rabbits need regular
exercise, and most of the time someone will need to supervise exercise
time to make sure the rabbit is safe. It is not a good idea to adopt a
rabbit if no one will be able to help him get some exercise and care for
him throughout the day.
If your family is looking for a quiet pet
that enjoys companionship, and will be with your family for several
years, a rabbit may be a good fit.
Can You Provide a Good Home for a Rabbit?
Rabbits
who have a good home and are well cared for can live for 10 to 12
years. As you consider adopting a rabbit, remember that he will need
plenty of space, a clean environment and someone who can take
responsibility for providing grooming, a proper diet and veterinary
care.
Most rabbits are timid, and do best in a quiet home. They
aren't able to tell the difference between loud noises that signal
danger and happy sounds like laughter, so any kind of noise could
frighten your new pet.
Your rabbit will need a safe, secure space
in your home to call his own. Use a crate that is not made of wire and
which is at least three or four feet long. This cage will need to be
cleaned frequently and you should check it often to make sure it is not
damaged in any way. Rabbits need ways to use their mind and stay busy,
so provide toys like a cardboard box, towel or left over fabric. You can
also purchase toys specially designed for rabbits at a pet store.
Ideally,
you need to have space in your home where you can let your rabbit out
of his pen to get some exercise. You can block off an area with a puppy
play pen or you can let him roam around your home, as long as it is
safe. Rabbits need to chew to keep their teeth in good health, so keep
things like wires, plants, shoes, and anything else he might chew out of
your rabbit's reach.