Rabbits are fluffy, gentle, and lovely. All too often underestimated as easy pets, they really need as much care, attention, and affection as a dog or cat. You are a new bunny parent or want to give your rabbit a better schedule, you’ll find this guide useful to build a healthy, happy life for your long-eared buddy.
From diet and housing to bonding and behavior, here’s all you need to know to look after your pet rabbit responsibly.
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1. Understanding Rabbit Needs
Rabbits are naturally prey animals, so they may be shy or skittish. They require feeling safe, secure, and respected. They’re social, clever animals that love routine and gentle handling.
Rabbits are not ideal pets for small children unless closely supervised, as they can be easily frightened or injured.
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2. Indoor vs Outdoor Living
Where your rabbit lives plays a huge role in its health and happiness.
**Indoor rabbits**
* Safer from predators and extreme weather
* More bonding opportunities with the family
* Need plenty of exercise space and rabbit-proofed rooms
**Outdoor rabbits**
* Require a solid hutch with a waterproof roof
* Should be elevated off the ground and insulated
* Needs secure fencing and protection from foxes, cats, and cold winds
If it is at all possible, bring your rabbit indoors over winter or at least into a shed or garage.
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3. Housing and Environment
A rabbit’s hutch or cage should be more than a box — it should be a home.
Recommended enclosure size:
Minimum 6ft long x 2ft wide x 2ft high with a run attached. The larger, the better.
Minimum setup requirements:
* Flooring that is solid with bedding such as hay, straw, or paper-based litter
* Hideaways for napping and relaxation
* Litter box (rabbits can be trained!)
* Chew-safe objects and toys for stimulation
* Free access to a big run or rabbit-safe area every day
Rabbits require a minimum of 4–6 hours of free-roam time daily to stretch and investigate.
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4. Diet and Nutrition
A rabbit’s healthy diet is all about fiber.
Daily dietary staples:
* Unlimited **hay** (Timothy, meadow, or orchard hay)
* A small serving of **fresh greens** (such as romaine lettuce, parsley, coriander)
* A small quantity of **pellets** — high-fiber, no added sugar
* Fresh water — available at all times in a clean bowl or bottle
Avoid:
* Iceberg lettuce, onions, garlic, potatoes
* Sweet treats or fruits in excess
* Commercial “rabbit treats” with seeds or dairy
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5. Health and Grooming
Rabbits require regular attention to maintain good health, even when they appear low-maintenance.
Important health habits:
* **Grooming**: Brushing regularly, particularly for long-haired types
* **Nail trimming**: Every 4–6 weeks
* **Teeth check-ups**: Rabbit teeth continuously grow — hay wears them down naturally
* **Spaying/neutering**: Avoids behaviour problems and minimizes health hazards
* **Vet visits**: Regular check-ups and immunizations (particularly for Myxomatosis and Rabbit Viral Hemorrhagic Disease)
Look out for warning signs:
Lethargy, loss of appetite, droppings changes, laboured breathing, or head tilting. These are signs of life-threatening disease and require immediate action.
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6. Behaviour and Bonding
Rabbits are expressive. They thump, binky (bouncy jump with excitement), and even growl or nip when frightened.
Bonding tips:
* Let your rabbit come to you
* Sit at their level and speak softly
* Use treats to build trust
* Avoid picking up your rabbit unless necessary — most feel safer with feet on the ground
Rabbits are happiest in pairs (a neutered male and spayed female is ideal), but bonding should be done slowly and carefully to prevent fighting.
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7. Mental Stimulation and Toys
Rabbits will become bored as any other clever pet.
Enrichment ideas:
* Cardboard boxes with holes and tunnels
* Untreated wood or hay chew toys
* Dig boxes (filled with shredded soil or paper)
* Foraging toys or hide treats in their environment
Switch toys every week to maintain engagement.
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8. Things to Avoid
* Keeping a rabbit caged 24/7 in a small cage
* Overfeeding too many treats or depending on pellets
* Disregarding indications of loneliness or stress
* Failing to spay/neuter — which can result in aggression or cancer
* Leaving them alone with other animals (such as dogs or cats)
Rabbits aren’t starter animals — they’re companions requiring attention, patience, and tolerance.
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Instant Rabbit Care Checklist
* Spacious cage with regular exercise
* Hay and fresh water ad libitum
* Regular veterinary care and grooming
* Gentle socialization and bonding time
* Safe, stimulating environment
* Refrain from sudden loud sounds or handling with distrust
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