The Myths And Facts Regarding Rabbits As Pets

Jennifer is a freckle-faced six year old.  Dressed in her Sunday best, she completes the annual family Easter egg hunt.  This year is special though.  In addition to all the yummy candy, mom and dad give Jennifer a beautiful bunny.  It’s not a toy Beatrix Potter or Bugs, but a living, breathing rabbit.  Little Jennifer bubbles with excitement.  She exclaims, “This is the best Easter ever!”

            But for Nancy Lanko of Hopatcong Hoppers and other rabbit rescue groups across the country, a yearly problem is just beginning its new cycle.  “For the right person or family, a rabbit can be a wonderful companion.  However, many parents simply see rabbits as inexpensive gifts for their kids.  A parent’s lack of knowledge or involvement in the rabbit’s care, combined with the child’s eventual disinterest, leads many bunnies to animal shelters or rescue groups.  We are still taking in many of these forsaken Easter presents in August and September.”           

         The historical perceptions of rabbits as cuddly critters that are easy to care for and make perfect pets for children are largely inaccurate.  These misconceptions have caused the rabbit to be the third most common pet in animal shelters, according to The Humane Society of the U.S.

 NOT WHAT YOU MAY EXPECT

Many people stereotype pets as showing certain types of affection (a cat snuggling on a lap), participating in games (frisbee with the pooch) or being vocal (a friendly bark or meow).  Not all rabbits bond with humans in this manner and often new owners become disappointed when their expectations are not met.

            Rabbits should be appreciated for who they are.  For example, they sleep much of the day and evening.  Their active hours are primarily dawn and dusk.  Territorial creatures, their cages are their castles and they would rather do without any intrusions.  They may nip at you, possibly to seek your attention or perhaps to ward you off.  Delicate animals, they do not usually like to be picked up, as it is viewed as a predatory act.  (If a “bun” must be lifted, his bottom needs support – he should never hang loosely and never be picked up by his ears.  His powerful legs can generate enough force to break his own spine.)

        Simply stated, a rabbit is not a low-maintenance pet.  And a bored, unsupervised rabbit can be a mischievous one.  As they are vigorous chewers, furniture, drapes, carpeting, and above all, electrical cords must be safeguarded. 

        However, rabbits are sensitive, intelligent animals that do enjoy the company of people.  The best way to interact with pet rabbits is on their terms–let them initiate friendship and trust.  Quiet and easily litter box trained, they can even learn to live with a well-mannered dog or cat.  So if you live in a quiet, mature household, possess a good sense of humor, and have the time and patience for training and socializing a rabbit, then a bun could become your ideal companion.     

        “Rabbits may not be what you expect at first, but that is part of their charm,” says Beth Woolbright, National Director of Public Information for the House Rabbit Society.  “Yet they shouldn’t be thought of as disposable once they enter their rascally adolescent phase or the novelty wears off.  With the proper attention and adult supervision, rabbits make good family pets.  Sweet and inquisitive, there is nothing cuter than a bun sleeping or begging for food.  They don’t give their trust freely, but once you earn it you feel like the luckiest pet owner around.”

Dinner time  

A rabbit’s total well-being hinges on its diet.  They have extremely sensitive digestive systems which, if compromised, can lead to serious health problems.  A high fiber diet provides roughage and helps combat common digestive problems such as hairballs and diarrhea.  Rabbits, unlike cats, cannot cough up their hairballs.

Rabbit food is readily available in pellet form.  A veterinarian or rabbit expert can provide specifics such as which type of pellets to feed and what varieties of supplemental grains, fruits and vegetables should be offered or avoided.

Food should be placed in a sturdy crock or bowl, as rabbits love to play with their cage furnishings.  Fresh water is best delivered by a sipper bottle.  Providing a complete and varied diet, high in fiber, will keep your rabbit nutritionally satisfied.  One note of caution: changes in a rabbit’s routine can add stress to its delicate digestive system.  Make changes gradually.    

 home is where the heart is

Because rabbits spend much time in their cages and utilize several “accessories,” their quarters must be roomy and comfortable.  According to The Animal Welfare League of Arlington, VA, wire dog crates provide an excellent home that is well ventilated, easy to clean and economical.  Because rabbits have no footpads, cage bottoms must include some type of smooth resting surface – a piece of cardboard works well. Furnishings should include the litter box, bedding made from hay, straw or newspaper, food and water containers, plus toys. 

Toys provide mental stimulation, exercise and spare the house from unwanted chewing.  Appropriate chewing toys and material to burrow in will help maintain a bunny’s health and happiness.

There are differing opinions on the use of an outdoor hutch.  At issue are the bunny’s safety, health and mental well-being.  A hutched rabbit is susceptible to predators like raccoons, opossums and foxes.  Even the strongest hutch may not prevent the death of a rabbit who thrashes intensely from the sheer terror of a harassing predator.  Escape from a hutch exposes a rabbit to poisonous plants, toxic fertilizer, fleas, the elements, bacteria laced flies, humans and wild animals.  Rabbits can also become bored and depressed in the isolation of a hutch.  As social animals, they welcome the opportunity to develop a relationship and be part of your daily routine.

Supervised, outdoor exercise in a secure pen or run, on the other hand, can be beneficial for a rabbit.  However, this should take place during the day and under no circumstances should a rabbit be left outside at night. 

pick of the litter

Rabbits are a quick study when it comes to using a litter box.  They eventually come to spend much of their time there, so bigger is better!  They also tend to “snack” on their litter so choosing one recommended for rabbits is especially important.

           Experts suggest that after a bunny becomes familiar with its cage and litter box, gradually let him out to explore your home.  Expand the territory in small increments.  Be an observer.  Only take corrective action if he is housesoiling, chewing or displaying other unwelcome behavior.  Firmly say “no” and tap your foot (rabbits thump their back feet to announce danger).  Herd, don’t force, the rabbit back to its cage and try again after a brief “time-out.”       

Litter boxes should be cleaned frequently – preferably while the rabbit is exploring the world outside its cage – using a white vinegar rinse.

HERE’S TO YOUR HEALTH

Unfortunately, an ill rabbit hides its symptoms too well for too long.  So, an annual exam by a veterinarian is needed. The vet you select should be well-versed in rabbit care as many are not.  Visit the House Rabbit Society Web site at: www.rabbit.org to locate a veterinarian in your area qualified in rabbit medicine.

            According to the House Rabbit Society, owners should regularly check a rabbit’s eyes, nose, teeth, weight, appetite and waste for sudden changes.  Warning signs include diarrhea, listlessness, bloating, gurgling, labored breathing, runny nose, peculiar head movement, abscesses, swelling/lumps, limb dangling, and sudden behavior changes.  Should any of these symptoms arise, wrap in a towel, minimize stress, place in a carrier and take the rabbit to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

            Rabbits shed every three months and weekly brushing helps decrease their susceptibility to hairballs.  Fastidious animals, they need not be bathed, but check with your vet regarding nail trimming and dental care.  Both are very important to the bun’s well-being.    

SPAY IS THE WAY

Shelters, rescue groups, veterinarians and newspapers provide access to a more than an ample supply of potential bunny buddies.   Capable of producing 4 to 8 litters per year with 3 to 10 young per litter, rabbits really do “multiply like rabbits.”  As such spay/neuter is imperative.  Males should be neutered at four months and females at six months. 

Aside from helping to alleviate the overpopulation problem, spaying and neutering offer a multitude of health benefits for rabbits.  Sexual aggression and territorial spraying are decreased, litter box training is easier, there is less chewing and digging, and rabbits are generally calmer and live longer lives when altered.  For females, the risk of cancer in the reproductive organs is minimized.  Spayed or neutered rabbits can also enjoy the companionship of other rabbits.  As social animals, this form of companionship allows life enhancing play, sharing and bonding.

  RESEARCH?  HOP TO IT!

 “While rabbits can be enjoyable pets, it’s important to remember that they require careful and consistent handling and socialization.  Also, their dietary needs are very specific,” cautions St. Hubert’s Vice President, Nora Parker.  “So do your homework before deciding on adding a bunny to your household.  If you discover a rabbit fits your lifestyle, select a breed that is known to be a good house pet."

Adds Nancy Lanko, “a rabbit should never be an impulse purchase.  After applying the proper research, care and expectations, however, a rabbit can be a good companion that is just as affectionate as a dog or cat.  Many times I’ve welcomed a rabbit on the couch to share a bowl of popcorn and a movie.”

As with any pet, select your rabbit based on its personality rather than appearance.  The reward will be an affectionate, intelligent friend who, when completely content, will even treat its care giver to the fabled “bunny dance.”

  PET RABBIT STARTER KIT

            Housing                                      Sustenance                                     Grooming

            Roomy cage                                     Food pellets                                     Fleacomb
            Resting board                                   Fresh water                                      Brush
            Litter box                                          Hay & straw                                    Cat safe flea spray/powder
            Heavy food crock                               Fruits & vegetables                          Nail clippers
            Water bottle                                      Untreated wood block  
            Assorted toys                                    Multiple enzymes (digestive aid)   
            Pet carrier                                         Petroleum Laxative (hairball passage)

                                                                    Other Supplies

        Dust free litter
                    Pooper scooper
                    Whiskbroom & dustpan
                    White vinegar
                    Hand vacuum
                    Bleach
                    Newspapers

                                                                                          Courtesy of the House Rabbit Society

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