Rabbit Care: The Complete Guide for New Bunny Owners

Rabbits make wonderful, affectionate pets with personalities as unique as dogs or cats. But they require specific care that many new owners don't expect. If you're considering a small pet, you might also want to check out our hamster care guide for comparison.

Understanding Rabbits

Rabbits are social, intelligent animals that can live 8-12 years. They're not low-maintenance pets — they need daily interaction, proper housing, and a specialized diet.

Key Facts

• Lifespan: 8-12 years
• Social needs: High (prefer pairs or family interaction)
• Activity level: Most active at dawn and dusk
• Temperament: Curious, affectionate when bonded

Housing Your Rabbit

Forget the small cages you see at pet stores. Rabbits need space to hop, stretch, and explore.

Minimum Space Requirements

• Enclosure: At least 4x their body length
• Exercise area: Safe space to run for 3-4 hours daily
• Height: Tall enough for them to stand on hind legs

Indoor vs. Outdoor

Indoor rabbits are generally safer and healthier. If kept outdoors:

• Protect from predators and extreme weather
• Provide insulated, weatherproof shelter
• Never leave in direct sun (rabbits overheat easily)

Flooring

• Avoid wire-bottom cages (hurts their feet)
• Use solid flooring with hay or fleece bedding
• Provide a resting mat or platform

The Right Diet

A rabbit's diet is crucial for their health, especially their constantly growing teeth.

Daily Diet

1. Unlimited hay — 80% of diet, mainly timothy hay
2. Fresh leafy greens — 1-2 cups per day (romaine, cilantro, parsley)
3. Quality pellets — ¼ cup per 6 lbs body weight
4. Fresh water — Always available in a bowl or bottle

Foods to Avoid

• Iceberg lettuce
• Beans and legumes
• Potatoes
• Onions and garlic
• Chocolate and sugary foods
• Most seeds and nuts

Health and Wellness

Common Health Issues

• GI Stasis — Life-threatening digestive slowdown
• Dental problems — Overgrown teeth from poor diet
• Ear mites — Head shaking, scratching
• Sore hocks — From improper flooring

Warning Signs

Seek a rabbit-savvy vet immediately if you notice:

• Not eating for 12+ hours
• No droppings
• Hunched posture
• Grinding teeth (pain signal)
• Tilted head
• Labored breathing

Spaying/Neutering

Essential for:

• Preventing unwanted litters
• Reducing aggression and territorial marking
• Lowering cancer risk in females

Bonding With Your Bunny

Rabbits are prey animals, so trust takes time.

1. Let them come to you — Sit on the floor at their level
2. Offer treats — Small pieces of fruit or herbs
3. Avoid picking up — Most rabbits don't enjoy being held
4. Be patient — Bonding can take weeks or months

Rabbit-Proofing Your Home

Rabbits love to chew and explore, which can be dangerous.

• Cover electrical cords with plastic tubing
• Block access behind furniture
• Remove toxic plants
• Protect baseboards and furniture legs
• Secure trash and chemicals

The Joy of Rabbits

Once bonded, rabbits show affection through:

• "Binkies" — Jumping and twisting in joy
• Grooming you
• Flopping beside you
• "Tooth purring" — Gentle teeth grinding when content

With proper care, your bunny will be a loving companion for many years!

Sources

• House Rabbit Society. "Rabbit Care Guide"
• ASPCA. "Rabbit Care"
• American Rabbit Breeders Association. "General Care"