Rabbit care extends beyond their food and housing needs. Knowing what your rabbit needs and how to provide it is the cornerstone of creating a happy, hoppy life. Use these tips from your friends at Shiloh Veterinary Hospital to give your rabbit the care he deserves:
Let’s Get Prepped
As with anything, the more you know, the better the outcome. We recommend talking to other rabbit owners, reading up on rabbit care, and learning all about their needs. We are also happy to be a resource for you prior to adopting a pet rabbit so you can be fully prepared prior to choosing one.
As soon as you adopt a pet rabbit, it is important to have them examined right away. We can check for any possible health concerns, look for parasites, and get you started on all the elements of rabbit care at home. Starting them with these exams as early as possible diminishes any fear they might have at the vet in the future. Annual checkups are important for overall rabbit health and wellness.
Additionally, we are always available to help your pet rabbit if they exhibit signs of illness or injury between routine exams.
Home Sweet Home
Some rabbit owners keep their pets outside in especially-designed rabbit hutches. While these can serve as additional spaces to enrich your pet rabbit’s lifestyle, you can prevent exposure to predators, parasites, extreme weather, and injury by keeping them inside the home.
Your pet rabbit’s enclosure needs to be large enough for them to burrow, sit upright without hunching, and equipped with fun ramps, hiding spots, shelves, and bedding. Also, they must have clear areas for both eating/drinking and tending to their bathroom needs. A five-pound rabbit will feel safe and cozy in a 30x30x24 enclosure. Be sure the area is well-ventilated, placed away from a sunny window, and secure.
Owning a Rabbit
It can be really gratifying to own a pet rabbit, but unless you want future generations of rabbits, we recommend spaying/neutering them around 6 months of age. We recommend this even for rabbits that don’t live with other rabbits, and is the healthiest choice.
Other important aspects of rabbit care include:
- Your pet rabbit’s diet consists largely of hay, but they also like a variety of fresh fruits and veggies.
- Close attention to their nails and teeth is vital to their comfort. We offer trims, if you need help. Daily grooming of their coat helps develop a bond.
- Give your pet rabbit lots of opportunities to experience closeness with you and other family members. They like to run, hop, and snuggle, and they provide endless entertainment.
- Litter box training is possible, but requires consistency and patience. Your pet rabbit benefits from a clean cage free of waste build up.
Learning the quirks and traits of your pet rabbit’s personality is super fun. If you have any questions about their behavior, appearance, or overall health, please give us a call at
(818) 614‑9929. Our mobile hospital team is always here to help at Shiloh Veterinary Hospital.