If you're thinking about getting a rabbit as a pet, there are a few important things you should know. Not only do rabbits have their own unique personalities, but they also have specific needs when it comes to nutrition, housing, and mental stimulation. In this blog post, we'll cover everything you need to know about owning a rabbit, including different breeds, nutrition requirements, housing, mental stimulation, and some fun facts.

Breeds

There are many different breeds of rabbits, each with their own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular breeds include the Dutch, the Mini Lop, and the Lionhead. While larger breeds such as the Flemish Giant or Angora require more space to move around, smaller breeds like the Netherland Dwarf can thrive in smaller living spaces. It's important to research the specific breed of rabbit you're considering, as well as their particular needs.

Nutrition Requirements

Rabbits require a diet high in hay, along with fresh water and fresh vegetables. Hay is particularly important, as it helps to prevent digestive issues and keeps their teeth healthy. You can also feed your rabbit a high-quality rabbit pellet, but be sure to avoid ones that contain seeds and dried fruits, as these are too high in sugar and can cause dental problems. We recommend Oxbow's Adult Rabbit Food.

  • Oxbow EVERYBite foods deliver complete nutrition in every serving
  • #1 ingredient is high fiber Timothy hay to help support digestive health
  • Antioxidants and prebiotics help support whole body health
  • No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors – just genuine, purposeful ingredients
  • Contains 100% of your pet’s daily recommended vitamins & minerals to help support whole body health
  • Formulated with the guidance of top veterinarians and nutritionists
  • Convenient, enriching blend of our two most popular hays
  • Harvested fresh from our family of farms
  • Grown specifically for small pets
  • High in fiber for digestive & dental health
  • Premium Oxbow quality

Housing

Rabbits need a comfortable living space that is safe and secure. A large rabbit hutch with plenty of room to move around is ideal, but you can also create a rabbit-proofed indoor area for your bunny. Be sure to provide your rabbit with clean bedding, and make sure their living space is well-ventilated and cool, especially during warmer months.

  • Odor Absorbent to minimize pet odors
  • Moisture Absorbent for easy cleanup
  • 99.9% Dust Free
  • Pure, Never-printed Paper is soft, hygienic and safe

Mental Stimulation

Rabbits are social creatures and need mental stimulation and physical exercise to thrive. You can provide your rabbit with toys to play with and hide treats in, or set up your living space to allow your rabbit to explore and hop around. Rabbits also love to chew, so be sure to provide plenty of safe, chewable items such as untreated wood toys or cardboard boxes.

Fun Facts

Sure, here are some fun facts about rabbits:

  1. Rabbits are social animals and live in groups called colonies.
  2. They have 28 teeth - much more than humans!
  3. Rabbits can run up to 35 miles per hour, making them one of the fastest animals on the planet.
  4. Their ears can rotate 270 degrees, allowing them to hear predators approaching from any direction.
  5. A group of rabbits is called a 'herd' or a 'fluffle'.
  6. Rabbits are crepuscular, which means they are most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk.
  7. They have a field of vision that covers nearly 360 degrees, except for a small blind spot directly in front of their nose.
  8. Rabbits have two types of droppings - hard pellets that they do not eat and soft pellets that they do eat.
  9. They are herbivores and eat mainly grass and hay.
  10. The lifespan of a rabbit ranges from 8 to 12 years depending on the breed and how well they are taken care of.

In conclusion, owning a rabbit can be a rewarding experience, but it's important to understand their needs and provide them with a safe and comfortable living space. By feeding your rabbit a healthy diet, providing them with mental stimulation and exercise, and giving them plenty of love and attention, you can have a happy, healthy, and loyal companion for years to come. So why not get a little furry companion and bring some joy and love into your home! Stop in to our Small Animal Section for all of your Rabbit needs!