Rabbits are available in a variety of breeds. Some of these include Mini-lop, Dutch or Dwarf. Rabbits live an average of 5-10 years.
Following are some accessories you can provide for your new little pet that will make his/her life happier and healthier one.
Rabbit Checklist
Food:
Specially formulated foods are available for the optimal nutrition of your rabbit. Young rabbits should be free-fed (all they will eat). An adult rabbit should be limited to 4-6 ounces per day. Along with pellets, you can add grass hay, alfalfa garden vegetables, and some fruits to your rabbit's diet. Rabbits need clean, fresh water at all times.
Treats:
Special treats for the culinary enjoyment of your pet are available in a variety of flavors.
Salt Block:
Salt is an essential mineral for your rabbit. A salt block will help your rabbit to retain fluids, especially when it is hot.
Vitamin Supplements:
Liquid vitamin supplements help assure that all of the rabbit's requirements are fulfilled.
Skin/Coat Conditioner:
Food supplements containing linoleic acid, aid in eliminating excessive scratching, dry skin, hair breakage (unseasonable shedding) while supplying essential fatty acids often missing in seed or chow diets.
Wood Blocks/Chews:
Wood blocks aid in the satisfaction of a rabbit's chewing instinct. Because rabbit's teeth grow continuously, a chew toy or a small dog chew will help keep teeth filed down.
Brush or Comb:
Especially for longhaired breeds. Rabbits will shed their undercoat usually twice a year. It is important to brush them daily during this time.
Housing:
Rabbits can be housed indoors or outdoors
Hutch:
Outdoor rabbits must be put outside in the spring to allow time for them to adjust to the temperature and grow a winter coat. A large wooden hutch, high off the ground and properly insulated from weather and predators is ideal. The hutch should provide fresh air, indirect sunlight, and protection from rain and harsh winds. An adequate-sized cage for most rabbits would equal ¾ square foot of space (.75) for each pound of mature body weight. For instance, a rabbit weighing 10 pounds should be provided 7 ½ square feet of cage area. A pen measuring approximately 30"x36" would accomplish this. Very large or very small breeds could require more, or less, room.
Cage:
A large wire cage with a removable bottom tray is recommended for housing indoor rabbits. Although rabbits can be litter box trained, they should never be left unsupervised. Cages should be cleaned at least once a week. If the cage has a drop pan, it will be necessary to clean it more often to keep the ammonia odor from the urine down. Using wood shavings in the pan will help.
Litter:
There are a wide variety of litters available for your small animal's cleanliness and comfort.
Litter Pan:
Rabbits are easy to house train. Place a small litter pan inside the cage in one corner and they will usually teach themselves. Be sure to have one available outside the cage when he/she is out in the house. Do not use kitty litter; this can be harmful if ingested. Use litter specially made for rabbits.
Water Bottle/Holder:
A constant supply of water is a must. Ball tips on water bottles help prevent leakage, which can soak the bedding. Remember to clean the water bottle container frequently.
Weighted Bowl:
This type of bowl for food eliminates excessive spillage.
Books:
There are many books available that will give you information on the behavior and care of your new rabbit.
Did you know: A rabbit should never be picked up by the ears. Instead, gently grasp him/her under the chest and support the hindquarters with the other hand.
