Browse Instructions
How To House and Keep Pet Rabbits
Posted By: Stacyh;
Category: Pets;
November 25, 2008
Author StacyH;
If you think you would like a pet rabbit or rabbits but don't want to breed them, here is the best way to house and keep rabbits that are properly socialized pets.
1
Decide if you are going to keep your rabbit(s) indoors or outdoors. An indoor rabbit that receives regular human interaction will not necessarily need another rabbit friend.
2
Before you house rabbits together make certain of their sex - and don't take a pet shop worker's word for it. Two males who are later neutered, or a neutered male and spayed female are the best pairings. Two females or two males can be housed together, but unaltered males kept anywhere near a female will probably fight.
3
Provide adequate living space and regular exercise. Rabbits don't need a large cage or hutch if they are allowed out for exercise. An outdoor exercise run, where they can graze and be protected from direct sun and predators, is best. In the house is fine as long as they are supervised, so they don't chew furniture and electrical cords.
4
In a hutch, provide a dry, draft-free bedding box and an open area for litter box, food, and water. In an indoor cage, space for food, water, and litter box with a small amount of additional stretching space is fine.
5
Hang fresh vegetables and hay in the cage in addition to providing pellet food. You can hang these treats by string or place in a hay hopper.
6
Clean litter box and cage regularly to prevent infection and flies. Feces and urine need to be cleaned out of and from under outdoor hutches - particularly in warm weather.
7
Provide plenty of clean water in a water bottle at all times.
8
Brush and groom long-haired rabbits to prevent matts, hairballs, and build up of feces in the fur around the anus.
9
Keep in mind that some Veterinarians recommend vaccinations for rabbits. This may be of more concern if you have more than one rabbit and they are housed outdoors.
10
Be aware that feeding your rabbit grasses and brush from outdoors may potentially expose them to parasites and diseases carried by wild rodents in the area.
11
Keep your rabbits dry and protected from wind and drafts in the winter. Most breeds are hardy and can stay outdoors year round as long as they have adequate shelter. Make sure their water isn't frozen during cold weather.
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