How to Care for Your New Pet Rabbit

Caring for a pet rabbit might seem like it requires a lot of effort and time, but it can actually be very simple once you know your new pet’s basic needs.  Owning a pet is a big responsibility, even if the animal is small, so taking the time to learn exactly what requirements your pet has will stand you in good stead when you come to look after your new pet on a day to day basis.

First, you need to consider the enclosure that you will use.  Rabbits can be kept indoors, but the best option is to keep them outside, where the mess and odor often associated with rabbits will not be a problem. A store-bought rabbit hutch is the best option here, but you can also build one on your own if you know a little basic carpentry.  Do not use an aquarium for your rabbit, although it may seem tempting, as this is stressful for your rabbit as he or she will not have enough fresh air, and this will cause fungus and mold to quickly become a problem in the tank.

Size-wise, you need to make sure that the enclosure will be large enough for your rabbit when it is fully grown, and that it will provide plenty of room for the rabbit to move around. As a general rule, the enclosure should be at least ten times as long as your rabbit, when he is fully grown, and about five times as wide. There should be a nesting box at one end, with a door to the ‘outside’ area.

In terms of what the best kind of bedding/ litter to use in your rabbit hutch, it’s best if you use fresh wood chips or recycled corncobs in the enclosure to give your rabbit something comfortable to sit on, burrow in and sleep in. You’ll need to clean the rabbit enclosure once every week, at least lightly, with full cleanings every other week.  During full cleanings, make sure that you change out the litter, the shavings and everything else.  Wash the food and water bowls, and change the bedding and hay.

In terms of feeding, you should be sure to feed your rabbit plenty of hay, to aid it’s digestion. Alfalfa should be given only in moderation, although this should be the primary hay given to baby rabbits. Leafy greens such as dandelion, chicory, parsley, romaine lettuce and cilantro should be given after the age of 12 weeks, with care being taken to introduce new foods one at a time to prevent stomach upset. You can supplement that diet with good quality rabbit pellets which you can get from any pet feed store and many garden centers.

A water bowl or bottle is your most important purchase. In terms of choosing one over the other at the pet store, you’ll have to change the water bottle less so that the water will stay fresh.  But the danger of using a water bottle is that if the metal ‘bead’ in the end of the nozzle dries out, it can very easily get stuck, leaving your thirsty rabbit without access to water. It may be many days before you notice this problem. If you must use a water bottle, make sure you check the nozzle each time you feed or pet your rabbit. A simple press on the water spout will confirm that all is well.  If you can’t remember to do that daily, a water bowl is the best option for your rabbit.

You may also occasionally feed your rabbit treats, such as a piece of carrot or apple. Rabbits also love Cherios, but don’t feed them too many as these are high in sugar and bad for the rabbit’s teeth.  A few raisins is a healthy alternative.