Frequently Asked Questions
Are bunnies expensive?
Yes. Right off the bat it is approximately $250+ for a spay/neuter. In my area, the rhdv vaccine is another $40. Supplies upfront can be costly unless you can get hand me downs or find online sales. Next you will need litter, hay, pellets, fresh greens and treats daily. You need to invest in a first aid kit and if you don’t want to do the nail trimming it can cost about $25 per bun (based on my last vet visit). They also need toys for enrichment. You’ll need to plan ahead for vacations by securing a bunny sitter. And lastly if they become ill, they need to see an exotic vet which can be extremely costly.
Should I adopt or buy from a breeder?
I highly urge you to seek out your bunny from a rescue or shelter. So many buns worldwide are in need of loving homes. They are the 3rd most abandoned, relinquished and abused pet behind dogs and cats. Many rescues will also have free adoption events or “pay what you can” and a lot of these rabbits are already fixed.
Can rabbits be litter box trained?
The answer is Yes! Rabbits can be trained to use a litter box however it is much easier to do after a bunny has been neutered or spayed. Another thing to keep in mind is even when a rabbit is trained, if you add a companion, go through a change such as moving or even moving their space to a new room it is common for a rabbit to poop all over as it is marking their territory. This should end once the bunny feels the safe and secure in their new environment or becomes bonded to a new mate.
Do rabbits have a special diet?
Rabbits are herbivores with a sensitive digestive tract therefore they should follow a special diet. The bulk of their diet should consist of 80% hay and unlimited water daily. A portion of greens and veggies along with 1/8-1/4 cup pellets make up the rest of their daily diet. Treats such as fruit and starchy sweet veggies like carrots should only be given as treats on occasion.
Do rabbits need shots like other pets?
Well a few years ago I would have said no. For 12 1/2 years we only took out bun to the vet for a mani/pedi or when he was ill. That has all changed. A new virus called RHDV2 has become prevalent and it is a swift and silent killer. The vaccine is 2 parts 21 days apart. To remain effective a booster should be given annually. Another vaccine that is available in the UK and Europe, but not the US, is for Myxomatosis.
Do rabbits shed?
That is a definite yes! And several times a year at that! (typically every 3 months) Some breeds tend to shed more, some less. Angora rabbits shed the least, BUT the flip side is their long hair needs to be continually brushed to keep it from knotting. Keep in mind though all rabbits need to be groomed.
What type of rabbit should I get?
That is a very subjective question. Just like picking out any pet, you should spend time looking around at various rabbits, choose one that you have an instant connection with and then spend some time interacting with it before adopting or buying. Make sure to ask a lot of questions from the people you’re getting the bunny from. They will already know a bit about it’s history as well as personality. This is not only helpful for you, but it helps to keep the chances of a relinquishment to a minimum which could be detrimental to the rabbit.
How long do rabbits live?
The average life span of a rabbit is 8-10 years. However there are many factors that go into how long a bunny can live. First of which are breed and genetics. Some larger breeds don’t live quite as long due to the strain on the heart. As far as a genetic connection you probably won’t know about any underlying issues until they occur. Day to day care is another factor…proper diet, grooming, habitat, socialization all play a role in a rabbits health and happiness. Then there is vet care. As long as you can afford vet care for regular check-ups, vaccines and emergency care, this can help prolong your buns life.
Do I need to get my rabbit a friend?
This seems to be a hotly debated topic. It is true that rabbits are very social beings and do need lots of attention. However I do not personally feel this has to be from another rabbit. I know some rabbits that just do not do well with others and are very happy being an “only” child as long as they are getting lots of attention from you or your family. As cost can be an issue, adopting can be a good way to go because the volunteers who take care of the rabbits will know which ones are perfect to be an only rabbit. That being said, if you travel a lot or are out of the house and can’t give a bun undivided attention, you may want to get a friend. Most rescues and sanctuaries have bunnies that are already bonded and will often have a reduced asking donation for bonded buns.
Are rabbits destructive?
The majority of rabbits are little destructive machines! They will chew on wooden furniture and baseboards (primarily to keep their continually growing teeth filed down), fabric, carpet and power cords. Due diligence is definitely needed when it comes to bunny proofing your home. Think of it like having a baby. Baby gates and protective cord covers are a big deterrent as well as having enough enrichment to occupy them.
