Think Carefully Before Getting a Rabbit as a Pet
This article is sponsored by RWAF.
Rabbits are the third most popular pet in the UK, yet they are one of the most neglected and misunderstood. Many rabbits live miserable lives confined to small hutches, alone and lacking exercise because owners often take them on without understanding their complex needs. Before welcoming rabbits into your home, please visit these comprehensive advice pages to understand what responsible rabbit ownership entails. If you cannot commit to their care, rabbits are not the pets for you.
Are Rabbits the Right Pets for You?
Many myths surround rabbits as pets. They are not typical cuddly animals; as prey species, they are naturally nervous and can bite or scratch when stressed. Building trust takes time and patience, especially on the rabbit's terms, which is often challenging for children. It is vital to consider if you are prepared and willing to accommodate these traits before getting a rabbit.
What Rabbits Really Need
Rabbits require spacious, enriching environments to thrive. Unlike the traditional small hutch, pet rabbits need an enclosure at least 3m long, 2m wide, and 1m high. This allows them to express natural behaviours such as hopping and digging. Rabbits also need companionship; they are social animals, and keeping a single rabbit on its own is cruel. A bonded pair or group is essential for their mental and emotional wellbeing.
Understanding Rabbit Behaviour and Handling
Rabbits instinctively react as prey and often dislike being picked up or petted. Their initial reaction to handling may be stress or aggression. Responsible owners typically limit handling to health checks. The true joy of owning rabbits lies in observing their natural behaviours, such as social grooming and curious exploration.
Daily Care and Long-Term Commitment
Proper rabbit care demands daily cleaning of their living space, replenishing fresh hay and bedding, and regular health monitoring. Rabbits can live for over ten years, requiring annual vaccinations, neutering (spaying for females and castrating for males), and visits to a rabbit-savvy vet. This lifelong commitment involves ongoing financial and time investment.
Common Misconceptions and Costs
- Not suitable for young children: Rabbits need gentle, patient interaction which many children struggle to provide.
- Not cheap to maintain: While initial purchase costs may be low, lifetime expenses including housing, food, vet care, and neutering can exceed £10,000 for a pair.
- Not cuddly toys: Rabbits are living beings, not toys; impulsive purchases often lead to abandonment.
Promoting Responsible Rabbit Ownership
Rabbits are beautiful, curious animals deserving of enriched, fulfilling lives. Potential owners must be prepared to:
- Provide at least two rabbits for companionship
- Ensure neutering to prevent health and behavioural issues
- Create an environment that allows natural behaviours and mental stimulation
- Clean and check their home daily
- Commit to annual vaccinations and vet check-ups
- Feed unlimited good-quality hay, fresh vegetables, and appropriate pellets
They can live happily for up to 12 years with the proper care. If you feel this level of commitment is not right for you, it is better to reconsider. Responsible ownership is key to reducing neglect and the burden on rescue shelters.
For those ready to give rabbits a loving and attentive home, the rewards are well worth the effort.
Looking to find rabbits for sale? Ensure you adopt from reputable sources committed to ethical breeding and care standards.
