Nini Yau Meiyi asked:


Rabbits are rewarding and adorable pets but they need a very caring and patient person to be their owner. Many people buy rabbits on impulse because they are cute without considering the life long commitment that they have to shoulder to care for the pet and when the novelty wears off they just discard them as though they are rubbish leaving the little ones to fend for themselves. As a rabbit owner myself, I felt very angry and not to mention sad to hear about this thing going on. In the first place, I also bought my rabbit plainly because of the same reason because it is cute and i also plan to discard it once my novelty wears off but as time passes, I began to love him even though I always have to clear the mess he has made to my house and it is a lot of work to be done.

Firstly, rabbits love to mark their own territory in the house such as spraying their urine or shitting all over the house. That was what happened when i first let my rabbit into my house and i had to spend quite sometime clearing up the mess.

Secondly, rabbits love to chew on wires to sharpen their teeth as their teeth grow throughout their lives. As my home is not wire-proofed at that time, he bite quite a number of my wires in the house and it took me quite a while to fixed it back again.

Thirdly, it is the cleaning and clearing of his cage where i think you and i hate the most. I always clean his cage when he is not inside like clearing his “toilet” where he always does his business there and also to put fresh bedding for him so that he has a clean “toilet” to go to. I also infest his cage so that no germs can go near him and at the same time i also top up his hay which it is a must for all rabbits.

Taking care of rabbits is a very hard and demanding task to achieve but at the same time, it also gives me a lot of satisfaction because through the lesson, I had learn to be a more caring and responsible person.

Hagar Lagarto asked:


Rabbits have been popularly kept as pets in Western nations since the 1800s. Rabbits can adjust well to indoor life, and can even be litter box trained. Like all pets, rabbits need a considerable amount of care and attention.

Often people purchase rabbits from a breeder. Many people prefer breeders under suspicion that some pet stores sell cross bred rabbits. Such a breeder who has a litter of young rabbits available for sale can be found in the newspaper classified ads listed under “Pets” or “Livestock.” Some can be found through rabbit breeders’ club publications or through rabbit-related magazines, which often include a breeder listing. With the advent of the Internet, many breeders advertise their stock online.

Finding a local rabbit breeder is generally preferred to shipping rabbits for long distances, as it can be stressful for the animal. Many pet shops nearly always carry smaller breeds of rabbit such as the Netherland dwarf, the Holland lop, and the Mini-Rex. These breeds, although smaller than ‘normal’ rabbits, still live long and healthy lives. A point to note is that often smaller breeds of rabbits are prone to tooth problems such as malocclusion.

Rabbit rescue organizations or a local humane society are increasingly common places to find adult rabbits, who may already be spayed or neutered and docile from handling. Though most rescued rabbits are healthy, some may require special care for health conditions or behavioral problems resulting from prior abuse.

Training and Play

Pet rabbits can be trained to urinate and defecate in a litter box or on a newspaper in a specific corner of a room. The litter box may also be placed inside the rabbit’s cage or the rabbit can be trained to treat the cage itself as the litter box. Litter training becomes much easier once a rabbit is spayed or neutered.

Rabbits cannot learn voice commands like a dog, but can recognize different patterns of the voice. For instance, If a rabbit is disobeying, for example biting, simply make a high pitched noise, or an extremely bass noise and the message will be conveyed. Rabbits can be taught their names, although they recognize the pattern of the noises more then the words. Rabbits are intelligent, and enjoy games and toys.

It is possible to permit a rabbit to run loose in the home if rooms have been rabbit-proofed (i.e. dangerous chewable items such as electric cords are removed from the pet’s reach). Rabbits have a tendency to chew on items in their space, particularly wires, although they can be trained not to chew.

It is important that if a rabbit is allowed to roam in a house that it be impossible for the rabbit to chew or get into dangerous or valuable items. They do not possess the same comprehension as a dog or a cat, and often don’t understand if punished physically; rather they will become scared or confused if some kind of punishment is used, as they do not see the damage they have done. If all this is taken into consideration, rabbits make excellent house pets.

Companionship

Other rabbits

Unneutered rabbits frequently fight when paired with another rabbit of the same gender. Generally fighting is a result of sexual mounting, which is engaged in by rabbits of both sexes upon other rabbits of either sex; this behavior stresses the rabbit being mounted and can make it aggressive toward its cagemate. Unneutered rabbits of opposite sexes will breed rapidly, so a pet owner should not leave them together, even if they do not fight.

Because of these problems, it used to be preferred to keep rabbits caged individually. However, it is becoming common to spay and neuter pet rabbits allowing male and female rabbits to live together. Fighting can result even from pairing altered rabbits. Keeping rabbits in pairs can limit behavioral problems (such as general aggression, biting or withdrawal) which may arise if rabbits are kept single.

Pairs of bonded and desexed rabbits, usually one of each gender to a pair, can often be adopted from animal shelters. These have usually already had all their major expenses taken care of (desexing) and they will rarely fight or harass each other, taking the trouble out of bonding two separate rabbits.

Guinea pigs

Some books recommend keeping rabbits and guinea pigs together to meet their social needs. While some people have seen success with this technique, the current consensus is that rabbits should never be kept in the same cage with guinea pigs. A rabbit can easily harass or injure a guinea pig; this can lead to severe distress or even death for the guinea pig. It may be unintentional or due to being startled, since the rabbit is larger and stronger so can seriously injure a guinea pig. They also have differing nutritional requirements, so it is therefore preferable that rabbits and guinea pigs are fed separately. Guinea pigs require additional Vitamin C in their diets that rabbits don’t. Lack of Vitamin C may lead to scurvy.

Additionally, guinea pigs typically show very little interest in social activities necessary for the rabbit’s well-being, such as grooming; this limits the intended benefit of housing the guinea pig and rabbit together in the first place.

Dogs and cats

It is generally recommended that dogs should never be left alone with rabbits as their predatory instincts (or overenthusiastic play) can lead to the dog attacking the rabbit spontaneously. Cats, on the other hand, can become close and safe potential companions if properly introduced to the rabbit and they are of at least roughly equivalent size. In fact, when the cat is introduced in a home with a resident rabbit, the rabbit sometimes will act aggressively to establish his territory and the cat, which does not have such concerns, will typically cede the point to the resident.

Victor Epand asked:


Rabbits are very cute and cuddly and many have the idea that it is very easy to have them as pets. Children love to play with rabbits and as they are soft and cuddly, children like to catch them or hold them. Before deciding to have a rabbit as a pet, you need to learn some points so that you find it easy to maintain them. The first thing that is important is to note that they bite and they don’t like to be held or picked up when they are roaming about. So it will be a dangerous thing if you have a small child at home and if the rabbit is caught against their will, they may bite. You cannot train them not to bite in such cases.

Rabbits look very cute and it seems that they are the simplest of pets, as they just have to be caged. But the fact is that they have to be cared for a lot. They need to be taken out of the cage daily and they need to be exercised to keep them healthy. You will have to keep an area especially for them so that they exercise there daily and it should not have any harmful things. You should also keep away important things so that the rabbit doesn’t bite and destroy them. Those who have studied about the behavior of the rabbits, are of the opinion that it will also get depressed if it does not get the human touch on regular basis. So you or your child will have to spare some time exclusively for the rabbit and play with it.

It depends upon the breed that how often you have to brush the rabbit because they have a tendency to swallow their own fur, which might lead to intestinal problem or even breathing problems in the rabbit. The rabbit’s cage also needs to be cleaned either every day or alternate days. If taken care properly rabbits can live up to 10 years or even more sometimes. Buying a rabbit for a pet is a costly and time taking job. You will have to look after and take care of the rabbit and its habits so that they are maintained in a good health and in hygienic way. You have to take care of the type of food and the nutrition that is important for the rabbit too.

Rabbits are quite destructive sometimes and messy too, because basically it is mischievous. They cannot be trained, not to destroy anything so you will have to keep things away from their reach otherwise rabbits can go to the extent of chewing a shoe, cord or anything that they like. Also you will have to groom your rabbit regularly. Even then you should be prepared to clean up the fur, as they shred them here and there. There is one important point to be noted that most rabbits die of heart attack and they fear children a lot. So by keeping all the things in mind you can have a pet rabbit for your home.

Gen Wright asked:


If you have some spare time on your hands, you may wish to consider keeping a pet to keep you occupied. There are many types of pets that you can choose to keep. There are pets that are bigger and more aggressive (like dogs), and there are pets that are smaller and rather docile (like rabbits). Of course, your final decision will depend on your own personality as well as your preferences. If you prefer something that is small, adorable, and easy to maintain, perhaps the dwarf rabbit is a good choice.

Owning your first rabbit.

Even if you have no experience whatsoever with rearing pets, you should still be able to keep a rabbit without much problems. That’s because rabbits are very easy to keep and maintain. Most of the time, they are kept in cages or play pens when you are not around. Everyday, during your spare time, you can take them out of their confined area and let them have a bit of exercise. Just like human beings, rabbits also need to exercise in order to stay healthy. Let your rabbits have a good run in the backyard or in a field.

You can also let your rabbit loose when it’s indoors. But rabbits are not like dogs. You can’t really potty train rabbits. But the good thing about rabbit is that it is naturally a clean animal. Very often, you will find your rabbit going back to its designated area to eliminate stool. Still, you can’t expect your rabbit to be well behaved all the time. After all, they are just cute little animals. Once in a while, they will urinate or defecate while running around in the house. So if you let them loose indoors, be prepared to clean up after them every now and then.

In addition, rabbits also tend to shed hair. So try not to let them loose on expensive furniture sets like sofas and beds. Otherwise, you may have a hard time trying to get rid of the loose hair.

Owning your very first dwarf rabbit.

There are many different breeds of rabbits. Mixed breed rabbits are the most commonly seen, and they are also the most affordable. They come in a variety of different colors. Often, because they are of a mixed breed, the colors are mixed as well. But that doesn’t make them less adorable. Their nature remains essentially the same.

Pure breed rabbits are more rare, and they are also more costly. Some of these rabbits come with very rare coats of fur. Of course, rabbits that are rare and hard to find cost a lot more than ordinary rabbits.

Dwarf rabbits are a special breed, and they are perfect as pets. They are known as the Britannia Petite or the Netherland Dwarf. And they weigh just around two and a half pounds for a mature adult. In fact, they are so small that you can easily place it on one palm!

Taking care of a dwarf rabbit is essentially similar to taking care of an ordinary rabbit. You need to keep its home clean, give it plenty of vegetables to eat, and spend some time playing with your beloved pet. You will find its companionship to be most enjoyable.

Dr. Dawn-elise Snipes asked:


Thinking about getting a pet? There’s one furry companion you probably haven’t considered, but should. It’s smart, uses a litter box, can learn to come and walk on a leash, is at home anywhere from a big house with yard to a college dorm room, and it probably won’t make you sneeze. What’s this terrific alternative to a dog, cat and hamster? A rabbit.

Rabbits are funny and charming – and they need you as much as you need them. Like dogs and cats, rabbits are abandoned every day. The United States Humane Society reports that 3 million to 4 million — yes, million — rabbits are euthanized in shelters each year. By adopting a bunny, you not only get a terrific companion, you save a life.

What’s so special about bunnies?

Rabbits are quiet, smart and will play with toys.

They’re cute. Watching them eat a carrot or just wash their big ears will put a smile on anyone’s face.

Far fewer people have allergies to rabbits than other furry pets, and you can find some breeds that barely shed.

They’re clean, as animals go. Once they’ve learned to use a litter box, they can roam around your house like any other pet. Plus, their droppings are virtually odor-free and are considered cold compost, meaning you can toss them directly into the garden with great results.

They are social animals. They’re happiest and healthiest when they have another rabbit to play with. They also like to snuggle with people, so you can plan to spend time holding, petting and playing with them each day.

There are more than 40 different types of rabbits to choose from. (For more information on them, go to http://www.arba.net/photo.htm).

Who should get a rabbit?

Bunnies are especially good pets for people who live in apartments because they’re quiet, don’t need to be walked and can be litter trained. Most apartments and dormitories allow rabbits because they are considered "caged" pets.

Rabbits — especially if they have another bunny for company — are ideal for people who work long hours or take weekend trips. They do fine for a day if you leave plenty of timothy hay, rabbit feed, veggies and water.

They are great starter pets for school-age children (the recommended starting age is 8, but it depends on your child). Just be sure the bunnies aren’t too big for your kids to handle properly. And since rabbits live about 10 years, be sure you’re prepared to care for them, like you would dogs or cats, if your children don’t. The organization where you get your rabbits can help you find the best match.

If you are unsure about a rabbit as a pet, seek out a local rescue organization and become a foster. Most rescues will pay for all supplies and food — and all pay for veterinary care — until a permanent home is found. This is a wonderful way to save some bunnies’ lives, decide if you’re a rabbit person and find the perfect one for you.

How do you choose?

Rabbits’ personalities change greatly when they go into adolescence. Some love toys, others like to romp in the tall grass. Getting a rabbit that’s at least 6 months old will help guarantee that the bunny you adopt will act the same way a year from now. If you adopt from a rescue organization, the foster parent can give you information on the bunny’s likes, fears and quirks.

If you’ve got a dog, consider up front how it will respond to a new pet in your home. Many dogs learn to get along with rabbits; some befriend them; some see them as prey. If a rabbit will be safe in your home, choose one that’s the right size to interact with your other pets.

Rabbits have a variety of personalities. Like cats, some rabbits will play hard to get; some will sit on your lap and let you pet them as long as you like. Find a bunny that suits your style.

Reputable rabbit rescue organizations will insist that your rabbits be spayed or neutered, for their health and your happiness. Most rescues factor that into the adoption fee.

How do you care for bunnies?

Rabbits need attention, fresh water and food (timothy hay, rabbit chow and vegetables) every day.

Their litter boxes must be changed at least weekly.

Rabbits need a cozy space to call home, but they don’t require much stuff. An extra-large wire dog crate, water bottle, heavy food bowl, litter box with recycled paper litter, a box with shredded paper to dig in, and a few hard infant or cat toys will keep them happy.

To keep your bunnies healthy in a wire-bottom cage, put old carpet scraps on the bottom. Without that protection, they’ll develop painful and debilitating arthritis in their toes. While you’re at it, add a 12- by 12-inch ceramic tile for him to lie on to cool off. You can often get these for free from a local flooring store.

Unlike dogs and cats, rabbits take a few weeks to warm up to new people and surroundings. At first they will hop a few feet out of and then back into their cage, then they’ll gradually start to explore. They’ll relax once they become comfortable with their environment. Although they love to hop around the house, rabbits need a safe place — a covered box or small covered doggie bed – where they can go when they need time alone.

Bunnies don’t see in color, so they often mistake wires for weeds and chew on them. You can easily bunny-proof your home by tacking wires up out of their reach.

House rabbits have difficulty cooling off above 85 degrees and staying warm below 40 degrees, so you’ll need to use caution when you take them outside in the summer or winter.

My bunny’s home. Now what?

Enjoy! You won’t be able to resist:

– Watching carrot juice drip from your baby bunny’s chin after an especially good carrot.

– The first time bunny grooms you (to show you are his).

– The times when she jumps with glee and spins around in mid-air.

– Watching bun sleep peacefully on his back, legs straight up in the air

To learn more about rabbit habits, adoptions or fostering opportunities, visit:

House Rabbit Society: http://www.rabbit.org/

PetFinder: http://www.petfinder.com

Rabbit Haven’s list of state rescue organizations: http://www.rabbithaven.org/BunnyLinks/Shelters_Rescues/StateListings.htm

The Humane Society of the United States: http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/rabbit_horse_and_other_pet_care/how_to_care_for_rabbits.html