By Post Pet Meds May 2024
Provide a spacious and safe enclosure for your rabbit. A large cage or hutch with enough room for hopping and stretching is essential. If kept outdoors, ensure protection from extreme weather conditions.
Choose a suitable bedding material such as hay, straw, or paper-based bedding. Keep the bedding clean and dry to prevent health issues like respiratory problems or pododermatitis (sore hocks). Also be careful about the material as some rabbits may chew certain fabrics and develop a gut obstruction.
A healthy diet for rabbits is high in fiber. The majority of their diet should consist of hay, such as timothy hay or grass hay. Fresh vegetables like leafy greens (e.g., kale, parsley, romaine lettuce) should be provided daily. Pellets formulated specifically for rabbits can also be given in limited quantities. Treats should be given sparingly, if at all, to avoid digestive issues.
Always provide fresh, clean water in a water bottle or bowl. Check water supply regularly to ensure it hasn’t run out or become contaminated.
Depending on the breed, rabbits may require regular grooming to prevent matting and hairballs. Long-haired breeds need more frequent grooming than short-haired ones. Brush your rabbit gently to remove loose fur and prevent ingestion during grooming. Be sure to check your rabbit’s rear end daily in hot months as some rabbits can develop maggots if they soil themselves but are unable to groom adequately.
Rabbits are active animals and need plenty of exercise to stay healthy. Provide opportunities for daily exercise outside of their enclosure in a safe, rabbit-proofed area. Supervise your rabbit during playtime to prevent accidents or escape.
Rabbits are social animals and can benefit from companionship. If possible, consider keeping rabbits in pairs or small groups to prevent loneliness and provide mental stimulation. However, it is important to ensure that rabbits are introduced gradually and supervised to avoid conflicts, and injuries.
Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your rabbit's health and prevent illnesses. Keep an eye out for signs of illness such as changes in appetite, behaviours, or stool consistency. Spaying or neutering your rabbit can prevent reproductive health issues and unwanted litters.
In New Zealand, it is advisable to vaccinate rabbits against Calicivirus. Vaccines can begin at about 10-12 weeks old with annual boosters.
Handle your rabbit gently and properly to avoid causing stress or injury. Support their hindquarters when picking them up to prevent them from kicking or struggling.
Keep the rabbit's environment clean and free from hazards. Remove soiled bedding regularly and sanitize the enclosure periodically to prevent the buildup of bacteria and parasites. Provide enrichment activities such as toys, tunnels, and hiding places to keep your rabbit mentally stimulated. Keep away from live power cords as some rabbits may try to chew these and get severely injured.
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