Are you thinking of buying a rabbit, or re-homing one this Easter?
Do you long for Watership Down or like the idea of a Roger Rabbit, Bugs Bunny or Thumper?
There are a few points you should consider first………

A rabbit can live for 8 years or more
A rabbit needs space to exercise
A rabbit needs company of another rabbit or daily contact from his owner
They should be vaccinated each year against myxomatosis and haemorrhagic viral disease
They should be neutered
A poor diet can lead to dental problems requiring veterinary treatment

Their backend must be checked daily during warmer months, as they are prone to flystrike, a very nasty life threatening condition.

Thankfully, long gone are the days when rabbits were regularly kept in small wooden hutches at the bottom of the garden. Nowadays, large hutches and runs can be bought allowing the rabbit space to move, stand up on hind legs and eat the most natural diet of grass.

More and more people are keeping rabbits in the house as they would a cat or dog. It is possible to house train a rabbit to use a litter tray although neutering is recommended to achieve this quickly. The house must be ‘bunny proofed’ to hide or cover loose wires. Rabbits teeth grow continuously and they do need to chew. If no toys are provided for this, they will chew skirting boards, carpet and rip wallpaper!

Statistics show that up to 80% of female rabbits over the age of 5yrs will develop cancer of the uterus. The only prevention is to spay (neuter) your rabbit. An operation to remove the uterus is now routine to veterinary practices and strongly recommended. Female rabbits can also become very aggressive and territorial if un-spayed.

Male rabbits should also be neutered to help prevent spraying, aggressive behaviour and aid house training.

A rabbit’s natural diet is grass. Commercial mixes do not contain the fibre a rabbit needs to wear his teeth down and ensure healthy digestion. Good quality hay should be provided when grass is not available. Complete pellets can be provided as 20% of the diet. A small amount of fresh vegetables will provide the necessary vitamins.

All of the above take time, commitment and money, but if carried out correctly, your new rabbit will provide fun and pleasure to the family.

Always remember, if you have concerns about your pet, please contact your vet.

by Jo Mitchell Head Nurse Client Care at Drove veterinary Hospital