• Rabbits are highly social and thrive on interaction, making them excellent pets for families with older children.
• Early socialization with humans enhances their adaptability as companions.
• They can be litter trained and enjoy supervised playtime outside their enclosure.
• Rabbits are naturally curious and love to chew—be sure to “rabbit-proof” their environment by removing hazards like electrical cords and toxic plants.

Rabbits need a secure, stimulating, and safe environment to explore and exercise.

Cage and Play Yard:

• Most commercially available cages are too small for full-time housing; supplement with a secure play area.
• Opt for solid, non-slip flooring in the cage, lined with towels, carpet remnants, or Carefresh® bedding. Avoid pine and cedar shavings, as they can cause respiratory issues.
• Ensure the cage is spacious, located in a quiet area, and kept at temperatures between 50°F and 75°F (10°C to 24°C). Avoid heat stress by preventing exposure to temperatures above 85°F (29.5°C).

Enrichment:

• Provide chew toys like willow and apple branches (avoid toxic woods like cherry or peach).
• Offer cardboard boxes, paper towel tubes, or tunnels for hiding, scratching, and chewing.
• Use dig boxes filled with shredded newspaper or dirt to satisfy their burrowing instincts.
• Encourage foraging by hiding treats or greens in paper or hay.

Litter Training:

• Use a box with pelleted or shredded recycled newspaper or aspen shavings. Clean the litter box daily.

Safety:

• “Rabbit-proof” areas where your rabbit roams. Cover electrical cords, remove toxic plants, and eliminate hazards.

A balanced diet is essential for a rabbit’s health.

• Young Rabbits (up to 6 months): Provide alfalfa-based pellets (¼ to ½ cup daily) and unlimited alfalfa and grass hays like oat, timothy, or brome.
• Adult Rabbits (over 6 months): Offer timothy hay-based pellets (¼ to ½ cup daily) and unlimited grass hay.
• Fresh Greens: Feed up to 1 cup per 4 pounds of body weight daily, including kale, parsley, romaine lettuce, and collard greens.
• Treats: Occasionally supplement with small amounts of fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, or bell peppers. Limit high-sugar treats like bananas or raisins.
• Water: Fresh water should always be available.

• Schedule your comprehensive physical examinations with Rolesville Veterinary Hospital every 6–12 months with our veterinarians experienced in exotic animal care.
• Spay or neuter rabbits at sexual maturity to prevent uterine cancer in females and urine marking in males.
• Conduct annual fecal exams for parasites and regular dental checks to address overgrown teeth or spurs.
• Routine blood tests may be recommended for adult rabbits.

• Abscesses
• Bacterial or viral infections
• Dental issues
• Gastrointestinal stasis
• Heat stress
• Parasites
• Respiratory distress
• Head tilt

Rabbits communicate happiness through unique behaviors like “binkies,” where they leap and twist in the air. They also enjoy lounging on their stomachs or sides when relaxed. Building trust through gentle handling and interactive play will strengthen your bond.