Let’s talk rabbits!

Are you considering adding a rabbit to your home? We have put together our top tips on what you will need to consider before adopting a bunny!

Shelter:

It’s best to have your rabbits shelter arranged and set up before bringing your bunny home. There are many things to consider when deciding the right living arrangement for your rabbit. Is it going to be housed indoors or outdoors? Will it be litter trained and free range in your home or outdoors in a hutch? Whatever decision you feel is right for your bunny, there are some things that you must ensure:

• They need to be safe from predators
• They need to be away from any danger
• You will need to consider alternative shelter during extreme weather conditions (hot and cold)
• They need enough room to:
  • Run
  • Stand
  • Jump
  • Play
  • Roam
  • Hide

Remember, even if you have decided that a rabbit hutch is the best option, your rabbit needs time out of it daily to have its exercise needs met. 

They will also always need access to clean drinking water. You could include a dish/bowl for drinking or a mounted bottle.  When adopting, you could ask if your bunny already has a preference that they are familiar with and stick to this.

Food:

It is important to have your new rabbit’s food ready for when it arrives home. This should include fresh grass hay, leafy vegetables and a good quality pelleted mix. Have a chat to one of our friendly team about what your bunny has been eating while in care to ease the transition to home. Remember, any sudden change in an animal’s diet can result in an upset tummy.

Carrier:

Have a safe carrier to transport your rabbit. This will not only be used to transport your bunny home but will also be necessary for vet visits including annual checkups and vaccinations.

Fun things: 

If you are heading into a pet store to stock up for your new addition you will notice there is no shortage of fun things you can buy for your bunny. Wooden chews (as yes – rabbits love to chew), mineral licks, balls, toys and tunnels. You may like to think outside the box on this one and see what you can make yourself. A cardboard box repurposed into a hidey spot or a toilet roll stuffed with hay and food to fossick with can be a heap of fun!

Rabbits are highly social animals that can benefit from company. If you’re considering adopting two rabbits or introducing another rabbit to the home, the process of introduction needs to be carried out very slowly and carefully. A desexed, friendly companion is ideal to avoid fights or confrontation. Our adoption team can provide further advice on how best to achieve this so that everyone remains happy.

Rabbits make great pets for the whole family. To see if we have any rabbits available for adoption, visit our small animals & birds adoption page.