rabbits - kentuckychinchillarescue.org · rabbits can be litter-box trained. they usually prefer to...

1/30/2019 home | Rabbits

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RabbitsRabbitsLifespan: 8-12 years

Rabbits are crepuscular mammals known as lagomorphs. They are intelligent animals that often make wonderful pets. They can form close

bonds with their owners - so long as the potential is recognized. They are fragile creatures and should be handled carefully. Rabbits havepowerful back legs; so powerful that spinal injury is possible if the rabbit is left to struggle, stress, or kick while being handled.

HousingCage size will vary depending on the size of your rabbit. The cage should be at least four times the size of your rabbit,however, the bigger the cage…the better. Popular housing choices include: large dog crates, x-pens, or custom made cages asthey are larger, much sturdier, and often less expensive than commercial cages. The cage should have solid flooring, andshould be placed away from direct sunlight. The cage should include: Feed/water sources, chew-toys and hideouts, and a litter-box.Rabbits may drink from a water bowl or bottle. If using a bowl – clean daily and check it often. Rabbits tend to drink a lot ofwater. Bedding should be as dust-free as possible. Popular choices are paper bedding or aspen.Cedar and corn-cob bedding is not recommended.Cedar and corn-cob bedding is not recommended. Rabbits can be litter-box trained. They usually prefer to use one corner for urine.The litter-box bedding should be changed often. Rabbits need to keep their minds stimulated, so offering plenty of enriching toys inside and out of the cage is important. DietA rabbits diet should consist of a quality rabbit pellet.Typically, they consume ¼ cups per 5lbs body weight daily.Pellets containing treats, nuts, or seeds should be avoided. Your rabbits should also have access to unlimited grass hay such as timothy. This is vital to their health and GI tract.Alfalfa as the main hay source should be avoided in healthy adults. The high protein and calcium content can produceurinary stones. Rabbits also enjoy fresh produce. It is an added source of vitamins and nutrition that can be offered daily. Vegetables maybe plentiful, while fruits should be offered in moderation. Safe Produce:Safe Produce:Vegetables:Vegetables: Basil, Bell Peppers, Carrot tops, Cilantro, Kale, Mint, Leafy Lettuce (no iceberg), and Watercress.Fruits (remove pits):Fruits (remove pits): Apple, Cherries, Pears, Peaches, Plums, Berries, Banana(one 2’’ piece), and Melons. GroomingRabbits are tidy animals, and generally keep themselves clean. Water baths can be quite stressful on a rabbit, and are not

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Did you know?Did you know?Rabbits love carrots, but they are high in sugar. Feed them in small amounts, and never to young rabbits.

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recommended unless absolutely necessary. Long-haired breeds do require frequent brushing. Rabbits will need occasionalnail clippings.

ExercisePhysical exercise is essential. Rabbits enjoy playtime if all cords and dangerous items are out of reach.Rabbits will get themselves into trouble if bored. One or Two?Rabbits are happy living alone, but can live in pairs if both animals have been spayed or neutered. Unaltered females mayget along, but avoid introducing two unaltered males. Male rabbits that grow up together should not be excluded from thisrule – as they may still fight in adulthood. Spaying your female rabbit prevents cancer in adulthood. A high number offemales will contract this if left unaltered.Neutering your male rabbit will not only encourage better behavior, but will alsoencourage litter box use. HealthIt is important to find a vet experienced in rabbits, as well as an emergency vet for after-hours care.Rabbits do not requireroutine veterinary care, but can fall sick or injured just as any other pet. More common health ailments to watch out for include:

MalocclusionMalocclusionMalocclusion is a condition involving the teeth. In rabbits, the incisors are often the ones affected, though any can be.Malocclusion causes severe overgrowth of the teeth. This is painful to the animal involved, and can eventually cause themto stop eating. A veterinarian is required to trim the teeth, and provide further treatment and maintenance. If you notice your rabbit dropping in weight, a swollen appearance to the jaw, or obvious over-growth – it is time to see aIf you notice your rabbit dropping in weight, a swollen appearance to the jaw, or obvious over-growth – it is time to see avet.vet.

Upper Respiratory InfectionsUpper Respiratory InfectionsLike most small animals, rabbits have sensitive upper respiratory tracts. They should be housed away from burning candles,air fresheners, and smoking. If you notice your rabbit sneezing, eye/nasal discharge, and/or acting lethargic – it’s time to see a vet.If you notice your rabbit sneezing, eye/nasal discharge, and/or acting lethargic – it’s time to see a vet.

GI Tract DistressGI Tract DistressA healthy GI tract is very important to your rabbit. If it shuts down, the situation can turn fatal quickly. If you notice your rabbit not eating, their dropping size and/or amount decreases or is connected/packed with fur – see aIf you notice your rabbit not eating, their dropping size and/or amount decreases or is connected/packed with fur – see avet as soon as possible.vet as soon as possible.



rabbits - kentuckychinchillarescue.org · rabbits can be litter-box trained. they usually prefer to...

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