Rabbits have surpassed hamsters as our favorite small pet (APPMA Pet Owners Survey).
Pet owners stated there were fewer drawbacks to owning rabbits than any of the other small animals. (APPMA)
Bunnies were cited as being the least noisy of the caged pets and they were ranked as the best stress relievers. (APPMA)
Rabbits are members of the order Lagomorpha and are often confused with another group of lagomorphs, the hares. Rabbits are born completely helpless, naked and blind, but hares come into the world covered with fur, are able to see, and can live independently only one hour after birth!
There are more than 45 recognized breeds of rabbits, which can range in size from approximately two to 15 pounds and live an average of five to 10 years.
All rabbits are susceptible to Pasteurella bacteria, which will usually present as an upper respiratory infection. A veterinarian trained in exotics can prescribe antibiotics to prevent the infection from spreading to vital organs.
A bunny’s teeth sometimes need to be trimmed in order to allow him to eat properly.
A rabbit’s normal heart rate is between 130 and 300 beats per minute!
Rabbits need protection from not only extreme cold, but heat as well.
Ideal bedding materials for rabbits include straw, hay or newspapers. Wood shavings can cause medical problems if ingested.
Rabbits are very clean creatures and can be litter trained.
A rabbit can be literally scared to death. Always provide a hiding place for him to retreat should he feel threatened.
Bunnies are mischievous. Commons mishaps involve electrical cords, toilets, other pets, and toxic plants or household solutions.
Rabbits need daily exercise and interaction with humans.
You might witness your bunny eating his softer, more irregularly shaped stools. These droppings, called “cecotrophes,” are packed with vitamins and fiber and are necessary to the rabbit’s well-being.
Rabbits can easily break their backs if handled improperly. Use one hand to support his chest and the other to support your rabbit’s hind end. Bring him close to your body and allow him to bury his nose in the crook of your arm so he feels secure from falling.
The most common health concerns for rabbits include overgrown teeth, foot problems and digestive and respiratory upsets. Serious problems that require immediate veterinary care are diarrhea, labored breathing, loss of appetite or head tilt.
Despite their generally quiet nature, rabbits are not recommended for young children, particularly as Easter pets. (The House Rabbit Society)
The two most popular books about rabbits are “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” by Beatrix Potter and “The Velveteen Rabbit” by Margery Williams.
