If you want a quiet, clean and adorable pet, consider adopting a rabbit. Pet rabbits can make wonderful animal companions for upwards of ten years. While domestic rabbits are relatively easy to care for, there are important factors in determining if they make the right pet for you and your household.
If you’re planning to adopt a rabbit, make sure you do the following:
Do your research
When considering a rabbit friend, there are some important things to research ahead of time.
- Budget: Rabbits need proper housing and supplies to be happy and healthy. Estimate the costs to see if adopting fits into your current budget.
- Breed: Rabbits have unique personalities, not necessarily related to their breed. However, there are many choices of physical and temperamental characteristics to choose from.
- Where to adopt: Decide where you will get your new pet. Adopting through a rescue or shelter is often ideal, since rabbits are often litter box trained and socialized before adoption.
- Medical care: Find a rabbit savvy veterinarian in your area for checkups and help with any health problems.
Have the right supplies
Some key supplies you’ll need for a pet rabbit include:
- Food (rabbit pellets, grass hay, vegetables) and fresh water.
- Simple indoor housing like a puppy pen.
- A litter box and rabbit-safe litter.
- Toys for exercise and mental stimulation.
- Heavy food and water bowls.
If you’re unsure what else you might need for your new rabbit, consult your shelter or veterinarian for more ideas.
Prepare your home & household
To rabbit proof your home, consider protecting your furniture and baseboards from chew damage. Wood chair legs are especially susceptible to damage from rabbit’s teeth. You’ll also want to protect or hide any exposed wires or cables within your rabbit’s reach.
Be patient & welcoming
It can take time for a pet to adapt to their new environment. Be patient and sensitive to your rabbit’s needs to make sure they’re not overwhelmed. While they are social creatures, they also like their alone time, so make sure they have a place they can go hide under shelter.
Rabbits can make an excellent addition to your home life. With the right preparation and supplies, you can provide a happy and healthy life for your new furry friend.
About the Author
Taylor Stewart
Taylor Stewart was born and raised in Richmond, Va. He attended Elon University on a baseball scholarship, but after suffering an unlikely injury, he was forced to give up on his dreams of making it to the big leagues.In 2006, Taylor moved to Bonita Springs, FL to pursue a career as a Professional Golfer. After traveling up and down the east coast of the United States playing in various golf tournaments on various golf tours, Taylor suffered yet another injury and was forced to change his career plans. Now, as a real estate agent,Taylor as chosen to put the same drive and determination that made him successful in sports, into helping others find their own piece of paradise in southwest Florida. Especially for those living in or looking for that perfect golf community, Taylor is able to guide his buyers and sellers through his expertise of the golf game and southwest Florida golf courses. Taylor is"Your ace in the hole."