Rabbits 101: Caring for a Pet Bunny

Rabbits are gentle, smart and full of personality - but they're also a bigger commitment than most people expect. They can live 8-12 years. This guide covers the essentials so your bunny thrives.

The big myths (please read!)

• Myth: "Carrots all day!" Truth: Too much sugar makes rabbits sick. Carrots are an occasional treat.
• Myth: "Rabbits are happiest in a hutch." Truth: They need daily space to run, hop and binky (that joyful jump!).
• Myth: "They're easy starter pets for kids." Truth: They're delicate, need careful handling and live over a decade.

Food: hay comes first

• Unlimited fresh hay (timothy or orchard) - 80% of their diet. It keeps teeth and digestion perfect.
• Fresh greens daily: romaine, cilantro, parsley, kale (in moderation).
• Small amount of high-quality pellets (not the sugary mix packets).
• Treats: tiny bits of fruit like banana or apple - a few times a week, not daily.

Housing & exercise

• Use a spacious pen or bunny-proof a room - a small hutch alone is not enough.
• Give 3-4 hours of supervised run time every day.
• Bunny-proof: cover wires, block baseboards, hide toxic plants.
• Provide hideouts and safe chew toys (hay blocks, applewood sticks).
• Litter train with a corner tray and paper litter - most rabbits learn fast.

Handling done right

Rabbits have fragile spines - never lift by the ears (ever). Scoop them with one hand under the chest and one under the bottom, holding them close.

Watch for happy signals: binkying (jumping with a twist), flopping onto their side, and soft teeth-grinding (a rabbit "purr"). 🥰

Health basics

• Get them neutered/spayed - it prevents cancer and calms hormones.
• Check teeth and nails monthly; trim nails every 4-8 weeks.
• Brush weekly (daily when shedding).
• Book a rabbit-savvy vet for annual check-ups.

Give a rabbit room to run, unlimited hay, and gentle handling, and you'll earn years of binkies, head-bumps and happy flops. 🐰