Rabbits are the cutest pets to get home. And if you are reading this, you probably plan to bring one to your home or already have one. But it’s time you realize bunnies can be little more than what you bargained for.
Rabbits are frequently mistaken as simple beginner pets. But the reality is that they high-maintenance animals. They have specific and unique needs to survive and live happy, healthy life. Here are all the things you need to know about caring for your pet Bunny.
- Set up a bunny house
Keep your rabbit indoors at all times to protect it from outside predators. Make sure your rabbit’s living location is not too far away from you and your family. Always provide appropriate hiding and resting areas for your pet rabbit.
A good rabbit cage should be easy to clean and materials that a rabbit cannot chew through. Keep pelleted litter at the bottom of your rabbit’s cage to remove moisture from the cell, keeping your rabbit’s environment dry and comfortable.
Also, they will require a large pen with enough space to move around. You will also need to thoroughly bunny-proof your house to create a safe space for your bunny and protect your belongings.
- Buy bunny food
Rabbits are herbivores, and their primary food is grass hay. These are high in nutrients and help your bunny avoid obesity and gluttony. Also, green veggies, such as kale, Brussel sprouts, and celery are essential components of a pet rabbit’s diet. These greens improve kidney health and help you lose weight.
My friend residing in Australia gets all the bunny foods from PetStock Australia. You can find similar stores in your city but make sure they’re reliable and authentic.
Always remember to provide fresh, clean water for your pet. Keep the water in a sipper-equipped water bottle or a deep, heavy bowl. Never leave the water out for more than a day.
- Set up a Litter Box
Rabbits have a natural inclination to poop and pee in one area. Take advantage of this by setting up a medium-sized cat litter box in their pen.
Keep a litter box in the far corner of your rabbit’s home. Put a thin layer of rabbit-safe, recycled newspaper pellet litter at the bottom of the litter box. Then put hay on top of the trash. Rabbits like to eat and poop simultaneously, encouraging good litter box habits.
- Make a play area
Rabbits are easily bored. They require physical as well as mental stimulation to survive. Keep toys in your rabbit’s pen to keep them entertained. Wooden chew toys, toilet paper rolls, straw baskets, dry, untreated tree branches, and small piles of shredded paper are all excellent choices.
Also, rabbits love cardboard castles because they spend hours chewing on new windows and doorways. They also serve as a quiet haven for the rabbit when required.
- Care for your rabbit
Rabbits should not be kept in cages for more than a few hours or days. They require plenty of space to run around and play.
Every day, let your rabbit out of her cage for at least three to four hours to move, run, and jump. Never leave your pet rabbit alone. The backbone of a rabbit is highly fragile and easily fractured. That’s why you should never pick up your pet by the ears.
Brush your bunny and clip its nails regularly, particularly if they have thick or long fur. Rabbits are naturally clean creatures that wash frequently.
However, it would be best if you still groomed your rabbit regularly. Long nails can get snagged on things or curl into your rabbit’s paw, so they should be clipped regularly.
- Schedule routine check-ups
Rabbits are prey animals; their innate instinct is to conceal any signs of illness. You must keep a close eye on your rabbit to ensure that it regularly eats, drinks, sleep, poops, and pees. If you notice any changes in behavior, contact your vet right away.
Also, your rabbit needs to be taken for routine veterinary checkups. They can examine the rabbit’s ears, eyes, teeth, and gut to ensure its health.
Always neuter or spay your rabbit, especially if you have more than one. This can reduce aggressive behavior and improve litter box habits and overall health.
Over to you…
Now that you have gone through this article, you know everything you need to take care of your pet bunny. Although it may seem challenging, sharing your life with your furry little companion can be fulfilling.
