Many people do not realize how popular rabbits are as pets. Rabbits are the third-most popular pet, behind only dogs and cats.
Rabbits are great pets for people of all ages. They are much cleaner than dogs and require a lot less work. They are easier to care for, and even small children can look after a rabbit effectively.
Read on for a comprehensive guide to rabbit care. Explore topics such as rabbit nutrition and other pet care tips.
What Do Rabbits Eat?
The image of Bugs Bunny eating carrots as his favourite snack is not exactly the case for rabbit nutrition. Wild rabbits survive on a diet of grass and water.
For your pet rabbit, their diet should primarily consist of hay, water, and fresh veggies. Eating hay has many health benefits, including maintaining dental health, lowering the risk of developing dental disease in the future, and maintaining a healthy weight.
You can supplement their diet with small amounts of pellets. Rabbits can also consume small amounts of fresh fruits. It is important to understand that these items are more of a treat than a dietary need.
Where Do Rabbits Sleep and Stay?
Unlike dogs and cats, rabbits do not typically roam free. Most are confined to rabbit cages when their owner is not playing with them. However, some rabbit owners have achieved this feat through planning and discipline.
The main issue with free-roaming rabbits is that they get into places they do not belong. They can squeeze through small openings and get in trouble.
Even worse, rabbits chew on wires, cables, and other potentially dangerous items. This leaves the potential to spark a fire or leave the item non-functional.
The best thing you can do is create a large and enclosed space. Ensure that there are no small gaps or openings that your rabbit can escape from. Also, make sure to remove all choking hazards and potentially dangerous items.
The carpet is not a good surface for your pet rabbit. They tend to chew through the carpet and even the baseboard. You may have to invest in some materials to eliminate this possibility.
Can Rabbits Use a Litter Box?
With discipline and training, rabbits can use a litter box. This is important in getting your rabbit out of the cage and roaming free.
Allowing rabbits to urinate and poop without a litter box is not a good idea. Due to the high concentration of ammonia in rabbit urine, your floors are at risk of being ruined.
Also, rabbits poop a lot, and you will find it everywhere. The best tip is to put extra litter boxes in the rabbit’s enclosed area. Then, gradually remove them as the rabbit gets the hang of it.
Your Guide to Rabbit Care
You are now ready to add a rabbit to your family. Rabbits are easy to care for and do not need much.
You should take them to a veterinarian hospital if your rabbit seems unhealthy. Grass and water are enough to keep your rabbit healthy. Make sure to get them plenty of exercise and a high quality of life.
If you want to learn more about rabbit care, contact us today to schedule an appointment.