A balanced rabbit diet and proper daily care are essential for your pet’s long-term health and happiness. This gentle companion has specific needs that owners should understand before adoption.

A gentle and social pet

The domestic rabbit is beloved for its calm nature and adorable appearance. With its soft fur, long ears, and expressive eyes, it makes an ideal pet. Although often confused with rodents, rabbits belong to the order Lagomorpha, not Rodentia. They are distinguished by having two pairs of upper incisors.

A constant need to chew

Even though rabbits aren’t rodents, they love to chew. To keep your rabbit safe, hide electrical cords and remove any objects it might gnaw. Outdoors, rabbits can nibble on untreated grass. In hot weather, offer shade and cool water. A frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel can help prevent heatstroke.

Living with other animals

Rabbits may get along with birds, calm dogs, or other rabbits. However, avoid housing them with ferrets or cats, who might see them as prey. Also, while guinea pigs might seem compatible, rabbits can carry bacteria that are dangerous to them.

Importance of veterinary care

An annual veterinary check-up is highly recommended. It allows for parasite screening, proper deworming, and discussion of spaying or neutering. In females, sterilization helps prevent uterine cancer, which affects nearly half of unspayed rabbits. In males, it reduces odor and territorial behaviors.

Nail trimming and hygiene

Rabbits’ nails grow continuously and must be trimmed regularly. If left too long, they can cause painful postural problems or even lead to bone infections.

The balanced rabbit diet

• Unlimited hay: Timothy or oat hay is ideal. Avoid alfalfa, which is too high in calcium.
• Vegetables: 1 cup per kg of body weight per day. Introduce new veggies gradually.
• Pellets: Feed in moderation, up to 1/8 cup per kg daily. Avoid mixes with seeds or dried fruits.
• Fruits: Optional treat. 1 teaspoon per kg of body weight per day.
• Fresh water: Always available in a heavy bowl or a bottle.

A natural behavior: eating caecotrophs

Rabbits produce two types of droppings. Caecotrophs, rich in nutrients, are reingested directly from the anus to ensure optimal digestion. This behavior is normal and essential.

Summary

To thrive, your rabbit needs a safe environment, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary care. If you have any concerns about your rabbit’s health or behavior, consult an exotic animal veterinarian.