Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Rabbit Facts

Rabbits can live between 5-8 years, sexually mature at 5 months, gestation 30-33 days and can have litters of up to 12 babies. Rabbits that are spayed or neutered make better pets by decreasing some medical and behavioral issues. Aggressive rabbits can growl stomp and lay there ears along their backs and may even bite. If not properly restrained they can break their backs while kicking in fear. With lots of attention and love, rabbits can be trained to a harness, to come for a treat, and to sit quietly on your lap.

Rabbit Housing

Rabbits can be housed both indoors or out, but remember each has its own set of problems to consider. If outside, watch out for maggot producing flies as well as heat stroke. Keep them in a cool well ventilated and shaded area and the temperature around them should not rise above the low 80’s. If brought indoors, keep all dangerous chew items out of reach such as electrical cords, chemicals, expensive wood items, and poisonous plants. There should always be some sort of housing available, even if allowed to roam around. Whether out or in, it is best to have the flooring of their enclosure part solid and part wire around 50:50 This allows the waste to fall through, but prevents painful sores from developing on their hocks. Depending on the rabbit, some can be housed together, and with some patience and know-how they can even be litter box trained.

Rabbit Grooming

Rabbits may need periodic nail trims, bathing, and some rabbits may even need their teeth trimmed if there has been trauma or are genetically malformed. Similar to dogs and cats it is important to locate the quick, or the living part of the nail and stop about ½ a centimeter in front of that to avoid injuring the nail. Bathing should not be done more than every 2-3 weeks and a hypo-allergenic puppy or kitten shampoo should be used. Long hair breeds will need constant daily attention to their coats to avoid matting and skin disease. If you notice the incisors are over grown or the rabbit is drooling, see their veterinarian because this may be an indication of sever problems with the molars. If the incisors need to be trimmed, do not attempt at home to avoid damaging the roots. If the molars need trimmed, see the vet, as most likely the rabbit will need anesthesia.

Rabbit Health Care

Rabbits should be seen by their veterinarian at least twice yearly and anytime you suspect there is a health issue. Some recommendations that may be made are; blood and urine analysis, fecal floats, dental work, radiographs and surgery to spay or neuter your pet. Never try treating your rabbit yourself as improper medication can be fatal. Never postpone having your rabbit examined as the sooner you bring your pet in the better the chance for success.

Rabbit Diet

No single factor has more overall affect on keeping your pet healthy then feeding a proper diet. Free choice grass hay, preferably timothy hay is an absolute must! Depending on rabbit size, 1-2 cup of leafy vegetables can be offered but all other treats should be avoided. Rabbits will eat a special feces produced at night and this is normally consumed directly from the anus. Obesity, urinary tract problems, breeding issues, and dental disease can all be limited if an appropriate diet is observed. As well as proper food, it is important that rabbits have free choice clean water at all times.