With Easter just a few days away, a bunny can seem like a perfectly fitting addition to the family! With that being said, there are a handful of things to consider before making this commitment, and today we’ll be sharing just a few of them!
Rabbits can live up to 8-12 years!
Small pets such as Hamsters and rats are known for their shorter life expectancy,
but most rabbits, on the other hand, can live longer than a decade. This commitment is certainly an important factor to consider before adopting. Pam Runquist, the Executive Director of Veterinary Outreach for the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association (HSVMA) shared in an article with Newsweek “Their lifespan depends a lot on a good diet, the owner's level of education on rabbit care and the pet's genetics.”
They require special veterinary care. Since rabbits are considered to be exotic animals, this means you will need to find a veterinary facility that is able to care for them. “Rabbits are mammals, not reptiles — but they still require someone who knows rabbits well. Rabbit anesthesia, medication, and surgery are delicate, precise things that you don’t want to trust to just anybody.” (Insider)
Speaking of veterinary care- it’s just as routine as it is with cats + dogs! Keeping in mind the need to find a clinic or hospital that is able to see rabbits, it is also important to budget for those yearly routine check-ups and appointments.
A balanced diet is necessary! We could dive DEEP into the world of rabbit nutrition (which varies by age!), and if adopting is something you are considering, we’d recommend you absolutely take the time to do your research. Long story short: rabbit pellets are not enough and lack nutritional value. In addition to fresh greens, a source of grass hay is a must. Beth Woolbright of the House Rabbit Society (HRS) shared a bit of knowledge in an interview with the Insider, in which she mentions that "bunnies require high fiber diets, so around 80 percent of their food intake should come from a variety of grass hays, so "ironically, frequently, when people think they are allergic to rabbits, it may actually be the hay variety," said the HRS' Woolbright. Around 10 percent of their nutrition should be "bunny-safe fresh vegetables," with five percent being rabbit pellets and five percent or less being treats, such as a slice of carrot or banana, according to the HRS director." To continue reading this informative article, click here!
Smaller animals (some even call them pocket pets) are no less work than dogs or cats. These are just SEVERAL of the major factors that should be taken into account prior to making that next step. Not sure if a rabbit will fit into your routine? Recognizing this is very important and ultimately shows compassion for animals. Take the time to start researching before anything else, or maybe talk to your local shelter about fostering!
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