What you need to have, what you need to know You don't need any help imagining how fun rabbit care can be. They're impossibly cute and hilariously fun. But bunnies have unique needs and behaviors that can't be overlooked if you want to have a great experience. We'll help you choose the right rabbit cage, stock it properly, learn how to play rabbit games, and generally get you and your rabbit off on the right foot. Are you the rabbit type? First things first: before you invest in an indoor rabbit cage, food, or supplies, take an honest inventory of your lifestyle. Are you able to be there for a rabbit daily? Do you have time for play? If you travel a lot, will there be another caring adult available to fill in for you? Rabbits are among the most interactive and social pets, but they are also sensitive and need attention. Make sure you can give it before you commit. |  |
Step one: the rabbit cage
Well, you've come to the right place for that. A rabbit hutch is more than a box. You'll find an impressive variety of rabbit cages, plus tips to choose the right rabbit cage for you. Our economy rabbit hutches have every essential you need, and you can add more luxurious options if you want. Think like a bunny: is it roomy enough, airy enough, cozy enough? It needs to be big enough so your rabbit can stand erect with his ears up, and can stretch out long on the floor, with room for a litter box. Avoid or cover wire floors, which can be abrasive on the fur and lead to skin infections. Besides, smooth floors are easier to clean.
Now think like a human: will the rabbit cage fit in your house? Is it easy to clean? Is the door big enough to get the litter box in and out?
Plastic dog cages aren't a good substitute. Rabbits are shy and like to see what's going on, and of course, you want to watch your rabbit too. It's not a box, it's your rabbit's home.
Great escape
Now that you have a nice rabbit cage, let your rabbit out. Rabbits thrive when they have at least three hours of exercise a day. Whether you confine him to a room or give him the run of the house, keep safety in mind. Bunnies will nibble on electrical wires, chew plants, and squeeze into places you can't reach. There is a lot you can do to rabbit-proof your house, but the best thing to do is keep an eye on your furry friend. He'll consider you a playmate.
Never let your rabbit loose outside, as tempting as it seems. Sudden surprises will send your shy guy scampering, and unseen predators may pounce, even if you're right there. Outdoor rabbit hutches and rabbit runs let your pet enjoy the fresh air safely, and we offer plenty of options.
A case of nerves
Rabbits are shy and jumpy. You would be too if you were atop just about every carnivore's dinner list. Help calm your bunny by avoiding loud noises, unruly children, and unsupervised pets, and by spending plenty of time socializing your rabbit to help him get used to being touched. Tip: most rabbits have a blind spot right in front of their face, so it helps if you approach them from the side or above, where they can see you better.
Toy story
A fun part of rabbit care is learning which toys they like. Clattery baby toys work, like those big bright plastic keys, but rabbits also like to tear things up. They love climbing in paper bags, little boxes, toilet paper tubes, whatever they can get in, roll over, and chew up.
Litter box law
A rabbit hutch without a litter box is like a house without a toilet. Rabbits have a clean routine. Keep a fresh litterbox in a predictable place, and your bunny will use it naturally. Clay cat litter is often too dusty, and the clumping kind is toxic if your rabbit eats it, which he will. Ideally, start with a layer of newspaper, then add a layer of wood stove pellets or litter made from recycled paper. Then cover with a layer of fresh hay. If you change the newspaper daily, you can skip the litter altogether. If you keep the litter box in the cage, make sure he has access to it when he's out playing.
Spay and neuter tutor
Unless you are intent on breeding, have your bunny fixed. Besides avoiding litters you are unprepared to care for, spaying/neutering reduces all manner of unpleasant behaviors like urine spraying, leg humping, aggression, digging, and biting. It's also healthier for your rabbit, reducing the risk of certain cancers and diseases. A fixed rabbit can relax, so you can too.
Grooming
Brushing a rabbit, especially during molting season, helps shine your rabbit's coat and keeps hairballs out of his digestive tract. Besides, it's fun for both of you. Many rabbits benefit from nail trimming too. You can get away with using your regular clipper if you're careful, but a nail trimmer for pets is safer and easier, and some cost just a few dollars.
What's up, Doc?
Like any pet, rabbits need regular checkups, including blood tests. Once a year is sufficient. It grows more important as your bunny ages. Problems caught early are far easier, and cheaper, to treat. Not all vets are rabbit experts, but any vet wants the best for you and your rabbit, so they'll lead you to the right person. Just ask for a reference.
