Rabbits are wonderful, intelligent companions that can bring years of joy to their owners. However, they have specific care requirements that differ significantly from cats and dogs. Proper rabbit care involves understanding their unique needs for housing, diet, healthcare, and social interaction.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about rabbit care, from setting up the perfect habitat to understanding bunny behavior. Whether you're a new rabbit owner or looking to improve your current care routine, you'll find valuable information here. For more small pet resources, check out our complete small pet care guide.
Table of Contents
Choosing the Right Rabbit
Before bringing a rabbit home, it's important to understand the different breeds and their characteristics. According to the House Rabbit Society, rabbits can live 8-12 years with proper care, so this is a long-term commitment.
Rabbit Breeds and Characteristics
Dwarf Breeds
Netherland Dwarf, Holland Lop, Mini Rex. Typically 2-4 lbs, energetic, may be more prone to dental issues due to compact facial structure.
Best For:
- Small living spaces
- Experienced owners
- Indoor housing
Medium Breeds
Dutch, Havana, English Spot. Typically 4-6 lbs, good balance of size and manageability, often calmer temperament.
Best For:
- First-time owners
- Families with children
- Indoor/outdoor options
Giant Breeds
Flemish Giant, Continental Giant, French Lop. Typically 10+ lbs, gentle giants, require more space and food, generally calmer disposition.
Best For:
- Spacious homes
- Those wanting a dog-like companion
- Outdoor housing with protection
Adoption
Consider adopting from shelters or rabbit rescues. Many rabbits need homes, and adults often have established personalities, making them easier to match with your lifestyle.
Benefits:
- Save a life
- Often already spayed/neutered
- Personality is known
Pro Tip
Consider getting two rabbits rather than one. Rabbits are social animals and thrive with companionship. Bonded pairs keep each other company when you're away. Always spay/neuter rabbits to prevent health issues and unwanted litters.
Proper Rabbit Housing & Setup
Rabbits need adequate space to move, stretch, and exhibit natural behaviors. The WabbitWiki housing guidelines recommend a minimum of 12 square feet of enclosed space, plus additional time for exercise outside the enclosure.
Essential Housing Components
- Enclosure: Large exercise pen (x-pen) or rabbit condo, minimum 4'x4' for small breeds, larger for medium/giant breeds
- Flooring: Solid surface with soft bedding (fleece, towels, or vet-approved bedding), avoid wire floors
- Litter box: Large cat litter box or shallow storage bin with rabbit-safe litter (paper-based, aspen shavings)
- Hide box: Enclosed space where rabbit can feel secure
- Hay rack: Keep hay clean and accessible
- Water source: Heavy ceramic bowl and/or water bottle
- Toys: Chew toys, tunnels, puzzle feeders to prevent boredom
Important
Never keep rabbits in small pet store cages. These are inadequate for long-term housing and can lead to health and behavioral issues. Rabbits need space to run, jump, and stretch out fully. For proper housing options, check our small pet housing products.
Rabbit Diet: The 80/10/10 Rule
A proper diet is crucial for rabbit health. According to veterinary nutritionists, a rabbit's diet should follow the 80/10/10 rule: 80% hay, 10% fresh vegetables, and 10% pellets. The House Rabbit Society diet guide provides detailed recommendations.
Essential Diet Components
Hay (80% of diet)
Unlimited timothy hay for adult rabbits, alfalfa for babies under 7 months. Hay provides necessary fiber for digestive health and wears down constantly growing teeth.
Fresh Vegetables (10%)
Dark leafy greens daily (romaine, kale, cilantro, parsley). Introduce new veggies gradually. Avoid iceberg lettuce (low nutrition) and certain vegetables in large quantities.
Pellets (10%)
High-quality timothy-based pellets without colorful bits, seeds, or dried fruit. Limited quantity based on weight: approximately 1/4 cup per 5 lbs of body weight daily.
Treats (Occasional)
Small pieces of fruit (apple, banana, berries) 1-2 times weekly. Avoid processed human foods, bread, crackers, or yogurt drops which can cause digestive issues.
Rabbit Health & Common Issues
Rabbits are prey animals and often hide illness until it's advanced. Regular observation and preventive care are essential. According to the House Rabbit Society vet directory, you should find a rabbit-savvy veterinarian before you need one.
GI Stasis Prevention
Gastrointestinal (GI) stasis is a life-threatening condition where the digestive system slows or stops. Prevention includes:
- Unlimited hay available 24/7
- Fresh water always available
- Regular exercise (minimum 4 hours daily outside enclosure)
- Stress reduction (consistent routine, safe environment)
- Prompt veterinary care at first signs of illness
Dental Health
Rabbit teeth grow continuously throughout their life. Dental issues are common and can lead to serious health problems:
- Provide unlimited hay for natural wear
- Offer safe chew toys (apple wood, willow branches)
- Monitor eating habits - difficulty eating or drooling indicates problems
- Regular veterinary checkups including dental examination
Grooming Needs
Regular grooming prevents hairballs and maintains skin health:
- Short-haired rabbits: Brush 1-2 times weekly, daily during shedding season
- Long-haired rabbits (Angora, Lionhead): Daily brushing required
- Nail trimming: Every 4-6 weeks
- Never bathe rabbits: They groom themselves; bathing can cause shock
Understanding Rabbit Behavior
Rabbits communicate through body language. Understanding these signals helps you bond with your rabbit and identify problems early.
Happy/Content
Purring (gentle tooth grinding), flop (suddenly lying on side), binkies (jumping and twisting in air), chin rubbing (marking territory), relaxed ears and body.
Curious/Alert
Ears forward, standing on hind legs, nose twitching rapidly, cautious exploration, gentle nudging with nose.
Stressed/Fearful
Thumping hind feet, hiding, freezing in place, ears flattened against back, aggressive grunting or growling, attempting to escape.
Playful
Running circles around your feet, tossing toys, zoomies (sudden high-speed running), nudging you for attention, gentle nipping (not biting).
Bonding with Your Rabbit
Building trust with a rabbit takes patience. Unlike dogs, rabbits are prey animals and may be initially cautious.
Bonding Techniques
- Spend time at their level: Sit or lie on the floor during free-roam time
- Let them come to you: Don't force interaction; let rabbit initiate contact
- Hand-feeding treats: Associate your presence with positive experiences
- Gentle petting: Most rabbits enjoy forehead and cheek rubs
- Talk softly: Use calm, consistent tone of voice
- Respect their space: Don't reach into their hide box; let them come out on their own
Bonding Tip
The most effective bonding activity is simply spending quiet time in the same room with your rabbit while they're free-roaming. Read a book, work on a laptop, or watch TV while ignoring them. This allows them to get comfortable with your presence without pressure.
Rabbit-Proofing Your Home
Rabbits love to chew, and electrical cords pose a serious danger. Proper rabbit-proofing is essential for safety.
Essential Rabbit-Proofing Steps
- Electrical cords: Use cord protectors or cover with PVC piping
- Baseboards/furniture: Apply bitter apple spray or use protective guards
- Toxic plants: Remove or place out of reach
- Small spaces: Block access behind furniture/appliances
- Carpets: Provide alternative digging spots (cardboard box with paper)
- Provide alternatives: Plenty of approved chew toys redirect natural behavior
Final Thoughts
Rabbits are intelligent, social animals that thrive with proper care and attention. By understanding their unique needs and providing appropriate housing, diet, and veterinary care, you can enjoy a wonderful companionship for many years. Remember that rabbits are a long-term commitment (8-12 years) and require daily interaction and care. For more resources, explore our complete small pet care section or check out our recommended rabbit care products.
