They can be cute and cuddly. They can be as playful as a puppy or kitten, but they are also curious and mischievous, and they love to chew. If your children leave their clothes on the floor, if you have tassels and strings hanging from your curtains or furniture, you will soon learn that chewing is one of your new pet’s favorite hobbies. If the bunny is a domestic pet, don’t leave it home alone unsupervised. And if your computer or any of your appliances stops working, it’s a good bet to check the power cord for tooth marks.
You will surely have a small expense to prepare a house for your new friend. You will need a hutch or cage so you don’t get into trouble at night or when you are not looking. Your pet supply store will likely have a variety of lodging facilities at a variety of prices. Or if you are handy with tools, build one yourself. Just don’t use chicken wire or slat too closely together; be careful that there is nothing the rabbit could hurt himself with. Don’t leave your rabbit confined too long. They are sociable critters and feel lonely.
Other expenses may include normal medical care that you must provide for any pet. Spaying and neutering, vaccinations, flea treatment. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for other health problems, especially those that are specific to rabbits.
Rabbits generally do not like to be held, so they are not an animal that sits on a child’s lap or a child’s playmate. They are calm, clean and, for the most part, like to be left alone. However, they like a large area where they can move and explore. Make sure they have room to exercise. Provide a door to your hutch to allow free access. They are more comfortable if they have a safe place to go.
Rabbit owners are unanimous in praising their pets. Like most other pets, they all have different personalities, relate well to their owners, and are easily trained with treats and the same techniques as for training a dog.
However, we cannot emphasize enough, do your homework. And if you think a rabbit is a pet you could live with, check with a pet shelter near you. They often have rabbits available.
Just remember, any pet needs proper care and love. By their nature, rabbits need more care than a dog or a cat. Make sure you are committed.
