Should you buy a rabbit?

Rabbits can be found in almost every pet shop, they are soft, cuddly and playful but should you really buy a rabbit?

Why buy a rabbit

Why buy a house rabbit

Rabbits can make excellent house pets, and like cats they can be house trained by using a litter box. Rabbits usually interact well with humans and can become quite affectionate but their are some things you should consider before taking the big step in buying a rabbit.

Rabbits need time, commitment and fresh food

Like all house pets, rabbits will need daily attention and feeding fresh food daily. Because rabbits are herbivores they will also need fresh hay and pellets unlike dogs who tend to eat your leftover scraps of food. 

You will also need to give your rabbit plenty of space and exercise, they love to run, jump and like to have their odd twists when jumping in the air. It can also be quite funny and amusing watching it have its mad 5 minute moment dashing round the house/garden without a care in the world.

Some rabbits can be destructive

Rabbits love chomping and chewing on all kinds of things, and because they don't know right from wrong you will need to be careful and keep close eye contact on them when wondering the house, the last thing you want is it getting shocked from chewing through and electrical cable!

In addition to being destructive, some rabbits can take a bit more time than other animals to be comfortable round people which is why it may not be a great idea having a rabbit as your first pet.

What health problems do rabbits have?

Rabbits tend to have problems with overgrown teeth if not checked up by a vet regularly. Other problems rabbits may have are foot problems, digestive issues and respiratory problems. But this should not put you off having one, as properly cared for rabbits can live a long and happy life and make great house hold pets.

Rabbits can make excellent and rewarding pets

Despite being pretty quite animals they do make great pets and can communicate very well such as stamping their paws when angry and grinding their teeth when being fussed and played with. They enjoy playing with other rabbits, toys and shredding the local newspaper and (depending on the type of rabbit) can be very affectionate wanting attention and fuss.