BASIC INFO
Rabbits are sociable animals and are fairly easy to look after, this is why they make great little pets and friends. They live up to approximately 10 years and grow between 20-40cm on average. Your rabbit will require daily attention and care.
Rabbits are sociable animals and are fairly easy to look after, this is why they make great little pets and friends. They live up to approximately 10 years and grow between 20-40cm on average. Your rabbit will require daily attention and care.
FEEDING
It is vital that your rabbit has the best start to life, and what rabbits are fed in their first year is crucial to their health, growth and adult development.
Choose a good quality rabbit mix or pellet to provide all the nutrients and vitamins required for healthy development, and assists in the prevention of disease.
Feeding the right food throughout your rabbit’s life will assist in fighting obesity, diabetes, heart disease and other health problems.
It is vital that your rabbit has the best start to life, and what rabbits are fed in their first year is crucial to their health, growth and adult development.
Choose a good quality rabbit mix or pellet to provide all the nutrients and vitamins required for healthy development, and assists in the prevention of disease.
Feeding the right food throughout your rabbit’s life will assist in fighting obesity, diabetes, heart disease and other health problems.
Many human foods can cause illness to your rabbit, so avoid
|
Your rabbit can eat in moderation
|
Your rabbit should always be provided with fresh water and changed daily.
HOUSING
Hutches are ideal for rabbits. Choose a sturdy hutch that has two sections, one section for activities and the other section enclosed for protection and sleeping. Make sure the hutch is placed in a well sheltered and ventilated area outside that is out of direct sunlight. Cleaning the hutch should be done 2-3 times a week, depending on how many rabbits live in it. Replace any bedding and clean the hutch with a pet safe disinfectant. Provide some toys for your rabbit to keep stimulated and interested.
|
BEDDING
Premium wood shavings or fibre bedding are ideal and are highly absorbent for all rabbits, though hay can be used also. Some of the bedding might get eaten away and might need replenishing. Make a nest-like area with the bedding for your rabbit to sleep. Clean and replace regularly to keep odour to a minimum and maintain hygiene levels. |
HANDLING
As a general rule, allow your rabbit to get used to you and your hands over the first couple of days before picking them up. When picking up your rabbit, use one hand to support under their chest and the other hand to support the back legs and rump. This is important as rabbits can kick their back legs and break their backs. Never pick up a rabbit by it’s ears. |
EXERCISE
Let your rabbit run around in a play pen for a little while each day. If you’re going to let your rabbit run free around the backyard, make sure it’s secured and predator free so there’s no chance your rabbit can escape. |
HEALTH
Rabbits need to be wormed every three months, and checked for fleas regularly.
Lice and mites can be found in bedding and may irritate your rabbit.
Sprays are available at pet stores and the vet to eliminate fleas and mites.
If severe infections and irritations occur, take your rabbit to the vet.
They need yearly vaccinations from a vet to keep them healthy.
Rabbits tend to hide the fact that they are sick, so keep a close eye on any symptoms of illness.
Signs that your rabbit might be sick include bare spots of fur, drooling, not normal stools, not eating, excessive scratching, rapid breathing, and sneezing or throat rumbling.
If you notice your rabbit with any of these symptoms, take them to the vet.
DESEXING
Your rabbit can be desexed if desired. It can reduce serious health risks and your rabbit will also have a calmer temperament. See your vet if you wish to desex your rabbit.
Rabbits need to be wormed every three months, and checked for fleas regularly.
Lice and mites can be found in bedding and may irritate your rabbit.
Sprays are available at pet stores and the vet to eliminate fleas and mites.
If severe infections and irritations occur, take your rabbit to the vet.
They need yearly vaccinations from a vet to keep them healthy.
Rabbits tend to hide the fact that they are sick, so keep a close eye on any symptoms of illness.
Signs that your rabbit might be sick include bare spots of fur, drooling, not normal stools, not eating, excessive scratching, rapid breathing, and sneezing or throat rumbling.
If you notice your rabbit with any of these symptoms, take them to the vet.
DESEXING
Your rabbit can be desexed if desired. It can reduce serious health risks and your rabbit will also have a calmer temperament. See your vet if you wish to desex your rabbit.
Image Credits in order of appearance:
https://www.vetvoice.com.au/ec/pet-ownership/pet-rabbits/
https://www.petsial.com/can-bunnies-eat-gerbil-and-hamster-food/
http://forums.rabbitrehome.org.uk/showthread.php?304613-Indoor-Housing&p=4899618&viewfull=1#post4899618
http://www.gainesvillerabbitrescue.org/rabbit-care/veterinarians/
https://www.vetvoice.com.au/ec/pet-ownership/pet-rabbits/
https://www.petsial.com/can-bunnies-eat-gerbil-and-hamster-food/
http://forums.rabbitrehome.org.uk/showthread.php?304613-Indoor-Housing&p=4899618&viewfull=1#post4899618
http://www.gainesvillerabbitrescue.org/rabbit-care/veterinarians/