Pet shops across the UK banned the sale of rabbits during Easter. The UK’s largest pet retailer, Pets at Home, spearheaded the campaign and provided free workshops that teach responsible pet ownership. They aim to encourage and enlighten families about the requirements of having rabbits as pets before buying one.
‘The pet shop said that many children get excited about having a pet rabbit around the holiday but lose interest in the furry creature after Easter,’ stated Cambridge News.
Before having this small furry pet, equip yourself with knowledge on how they are as pets. This article will tell you all about rabbits as pets. Is a rabbit the right pet for you? Is it suitable to your lifestyle? Can a pet rabbit live alone?
Rabbits are sociable.
Have you got enough time for this little one? Rabbits not only relish their time with owners but they require it. They demand attention and enjoy being stroked on the head and cheeks. To form strong bonds with them is to play with them as much as you can. They make great pets for experienced owners who know how to handle them with care.
Without human interaction, they get bored easily and tend to become lonely and depressed. Consider leaving your bunnies with a friend or family member when going on a trip.
Rabbits prefer being kept with other rabbits.
As social creatures, they are prone to loneliness and depression. As such, consider getting other rabbits as companions. With a constant companion, rabbits will grow happy and contented.
They do not like to be carried.
Rabbits may be sociable, but remember that they are prey animals in the wild. The action of someone bending over to grab them by their torso can be perceived as a threat.
How do you interact with a rabbit? Sit on the floor whilst the bunny is playing and wait for it to come to you. As soon as it comes to you, begin to pet it gently but do not carry it yet.
If you do want to carry your rabbit, make sure you that do it properly. The best way to pick it up is to place one hand under the rib cage and place your other hand on its bottom, then scoop its back legs to prevent it from kicking. This method protects its fragile backbone and protects you from its kicking back legs and sharp nails.
Rabbits are rarely a good option for small children (younger than seven years).
The natural exuberance of toddlers can be stressful for most rabbits. They need owners who understand that they are pet animals that are best kept on the ground. In addition, rabbits are fragile creatures that get injured easily.
Children easily outgrow their pet rabbits at home and often forget to attend to their needs. Responsibilities are often shouldered by parents, who count them as additional chores. Rabbits are wonderful pets but are not recommended for small children.
You may like to read: 5 Best Pets for Kids
They are generally quiet.
If you are looking for a pet that does not bark, growl, or create loud noises, a rabbit is the one for you. This is also the reason why it is recommended for people who are light sleepers.
Housing rabbits at home requires a large space.
Rabbits are known as busy creatures and have bundles of energy. They need enough space to run around. They should be occasionally let out of their hutches to exercise. A rabbit-proof garden is an ideal place for rabbits to play around. The garden should also be free from toxic plants that are harmful to bunnies.
Apartment dwellers that have lesser space can keep them in small cages. However, make sure to allow a couple of hours for play and exercise.
Looking after a rabbit costs money.
Rabbit ownership can be expensive. The following are the things you need for the initial set-up and their estimated costs.
Hutches
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- A hutch or cage can cost between £50 and £200
- Indoor cages cost between £80 and £100
Bedding
You may choose a covering of straw, wood shavings. or other types of bedding.
- The estimated cost for bedding is from £3 to £5
Food
Ensure good-quality hay and fresh food that meet the rabbit’s nutritional requirements.
- Food cost is estimated at £5–£7
Accessories
These include brushes, claw clippers, food bowls, water bottles, and a hand-carry basket when the need comes to take it outside.
- Estimated cost is £50
Vaccination
There are vaccinations for specific diseases, which include myxomatosis and VHD (viral haemorrhagic disease).
- Estimated cost is £20–£50
- Other expenses related to follow-up vaccinations
Neutering or spaying
Note that males rather slightly cost lesser than females.
- Estimated cost is £40–£80
Other medical expenses
Consider getting rabbit insurance to cover the medical bills.
- Estimated cost is between £30 and £40 in a year
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