ADOPTING A RABBIT

A friend of mine has a little girl that has been begging her daily to adopt a rabbit. I know that my friend really preferred a cat and was nervous about adopting a rabbit. She asked my advice and I did not have the answer. So I decided to talk to different adoption agencies about what she should know when adopting a rabbit.

I did agree with my friend that adopting would be the way to go so she knows how to care for it and what kind of diet, rabbits need to maintain. As I did my research, I found that rabbits are becoming a popular pet. There is now more information available about how to care for them and more vets have expanded their practice to include rabbits, ferrets, and other small pets. They have strong personalities and can make wonderful pets.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when adopting a rabbit:

1. Commitment

You must still make a serious commitment when owning a rabbit. It is similar to owning a dog or cat. Do your homework about the type of enclosures, toys, behavior, boredom, and diet.

2. Time to Adjust

When you first adopt and bring home your rabbit, you can expect her to be timid but given some time, she’ll make herself at home. Just like any pet, even though it is in a cage, it needs attention and time to make him or herself comfortable.

3. Type of Cage

Avoid wire-bottom cages and choose an enclosure that has a flat bottom with no holes or wire weaves. Their feet can get ulcerations from wire-bottoms. You may want to consider a dog crate or make your own enclosure.

4. House Proof

Rabbit-proof your house before you let her explore the house. You don’t want her getting into the cabinets, chewing on wires, or lost in the basement.

5. Toys/Attention

A busy rabbit is a happy rabbit. Toys that she can chew on, roll around, and focus on will keep her stimulated. Make sure to say hello and check in on her a couple times of day.

6. Veterinarian Visits

Rabbits don’t need annual vaccines but they do need checkups. Make sure to budget for regular vet visits.

7. Grooming

Remember that rabbits need grooming, should be handled gently, and need their nails trimmed. Talk to the rescue organization or shelter that you are adopting from about handling and care. Ask them to show you how to handle a rabbit.

Hope these tips help and you and your new rabbit have a happy home together.