Top 5 Mistakes I’ve Made as a Rabbit Owner

As a proud rabbit owner, I’ve learnt a lot through trial and error. While every pet journey is unique, I want to share the top five mistakes I have made over the years to help others avoid the same pitfalls. Whether you’re considering bringing a bunny into your life or are already an experienced owner, these insights might just save you some heartache! It is my passion and my mission to be able to help others understand rabbit care better and to create more reputable information for owners and those looking at taking on bunny ownership.

1. Getting a Rabbit from a Breeder

My boy Bean, at 8 weeks old.

When I first decided to get a rabbit, I chose to go through a breeder, (and not even a reputable breeder, just one I found on Gumtree) thinking I’d get a “perfect” pet, and as someone who knew I wanted a “mini lop” bunny I fell into the trap of getting a baby wherever I could. However, this led to some unexpected challenges. Whilst I think that there are breeders that exist that do it in a safe and responsible way and focus on the safety of the bunnies, many breeders prioritise aesthetics over temperament and health. Particularly with any sort of lop breed, this can create genetic and congenital issues, such as GI issues, problems with their eyes and sight, dental problems and ear problems, just to name a few. Instead, I’ve learnt the value of adopting from shelters or dedicated rabbit rescue organisations, where many loving rabbits that have been surrended or abandoned are rescued, and waiting for loving homes. Not only do you give a rabbit a second chance, but you also gain a companion with a known history and often, a better temperament. To add to this, most rabbits adopted out will come already vet checked, desexed and microchipped prior to adoption.

2. Not Doing Enough Research on Rabbits and Rabbit Care

Before I brought my rabbit home, I didn’t fully grasp the responsibilities involved in rabbit care. I will say in my defence, there is not a lot of reputable and accurate information out there, and most of what can be found on the Internet (besides this blog of course!) is based on myths and misconceptions about rabbits. I particularly overlooked the specifics about different breeds, especially lop breeds, and fell for their cute and squishy look, but since discovered they have unique needs due to their ear structure and potential health issues. Doing thorough research beforehand can make a significant difference in how well you care for your furry friend and help you determine whether a rabbit is actually the best pet for you and/or your family. Understanding their behaviour, social needs, diet, care requirements and specific breed characteristics can lead to a happier, healthier pet, and hopefully lead to a reduction in the number of rabbits being surrendered or abandoned due to not understanding how to care for them.

3. Not Understanding Rabbit Diet and the Importance of a High-Fibre Diet

Vegetables and fruit are not an everyday food, and bunnies don’t get any extra fibre from these. They should really only be fed as a treat.

I made the mistake of giving my bun a big plate of veggies thinking I was doing the right thing when he didn’t need any of it and it actually upset his stomach, causing runny bowel movements.

One of my biggest oversights was not prioritising a high-fiber diet for my rabbit. I spent the first 2-3 years of bunny ownership not understanding that a proper diet is crucial for their digestive health. Rabbits need unlimited access to hay, fresh grass and even natural floral hay toppers. Rabbits digestive system as a herbivore is different to ours, and they don’t actually get a lot of fibre from vegetables and fruit in the same way we as humans do, and pellets are a supplementray food that is optional to feed and rabbits should definitely not have 24/7 access to these. The right diet helps prevent common health issues, including gastrointestinal stasis, which can be life-threatening. Educating myself about rabbit nutrition has been vital to all my rabbit’s well-being.

4. Not Realising How Much Space They Actually Require

This little pet shop cage was Bean’s first home, and it still to this day makes me feel horrible I ever kept him in this. Luckily, he quickly outgrew it and graduated to a bigger indoor enclosure.

Back in the early days of my bunny parent journey, I initially thought a small cage would be sufficient for my rabbit. I initially had my boy Bean, in a pet shop cage with a plastic bottom and a wire/cage that fits over the top (I’ll include a photo so you can see). Even though he was 8 weeks old and tiny when I first purchased it, it still makes me cringe I thought he would be able to live in something that small. As he began to grow, I soon realised that rabbits are active creatures that require plenty of space to hop, flop, binky and zoomie. A confined space can lead to boredom and behavioral problems such as becoming extremely territorial and aggressive. It’s essential to provide a safe, spacious indoor area for them to roam and play. Creating a rabbit-proof area in my home has made a world of difference in keeping all three of my bunnies happy and healthy.

5. Not Discouraging Bad or Naughty Behaviours

I also didn’t understand that rabbits, like any other pet, can be trained and need guidance in their behaviour. I allowed some “naughty” behaviors to go unchecked, thinking they were cute at the time. However, these behaviours can escalate and lead to issues later on. To be honest, this is one I’m still working on, but, c’mon how am I supposed to say no to that cute little face?! In all seriousness, I have learnt the importance of setting boundaries and using positive reinforcement to encourage good behaviour. With patience and consistency, you can teach your rabbit what’s acceptable and what isn’t.

My current bunny trio Bean (grey), Luna (white) and Aster (dark grey).

Every rabbit owner makes mistakes, but the key is to learn and grow from them, I do my best not to place shame and judgment on rabbit owners I come across in my day to day as a bunny groomer, because that doesn’t help anyone. I believe sharing my mistakes and helping educate others is the key. By sharing my experiences, I hope to help others provide the best care for their rabbits. If you’re considering bringing a bunny into your life, remember to do your research, provide the right environment and diet, and be proactive in training. Your rabbit will thank you for it!

Renee xx

The Ultimate Guide to Rabbit Care: Is a Bunny Right for You?

If you're considering adding a small animal to your family, rabbits can be an enchanting choice. With their soft fur, playful personalities, and overall cuteness, bunnies can bring joy and companionship to your home. However, owning a rabbit is more complex than it may seem at first glance. Before you decide you want to take on the vast responsibilities of rabbit ownership, let’s explore everything you need to know about rabbit care and whether a bunny is right for you and your family.

Researching Rabbit Care: The Foundation of Responsible Ownership

Before bringing a rabbit home, it’s essential to dive into comprehensive research about their care requirements. As prey animals, rabbits have specific needs that differ from other pets, including:

• Diet: A rabbit's diet primarily consists of high-quality hay, fresh grass, and a small number of pellets and occasional bunny safe treats. Knowing what is safe and unsafe along with what is optimal for their health and what isn’t, is fundamental to their overall wellbeing.

• Housing: Bunnies need a spacious indoor enclosure with room to hop around. A safe, comfortable environment is vital for their wellbeing. Indoor rabbits also benefit from a safe space to explore outside their enclosure. A cage or hutch is nowhere near enough room for a rabbit or rabbits. This is my recommended choice when getting a fence for an indoor bunny set up, click here to view.

• Social Needs: Rabbits are social creatures and thrive on interaction. They require daily bonding time with their owners and can even benefit from companionship with other rabbits, given proper introductions, and they are taken through the correct process to bond them.

• Grooming: All rabbits need regular grooming to prevent matting and to manage shedding, along with keeping their nails at an appropriate length. To start with I would get a slicker brush (with plastic caps on the prongs) like this one. I would also recommend some nail scissors like these.

Investing time in understanding rabbit care will help you create a loving environment that meets your pet's physical and emotional needs. Be sure to find reputable information as best as you can, as most information you will find is incorrect or misleading (besides this blog post of course).

The Costs of Owning a Rabbit: What to Expect

Owning a rabbit involves various costs that go beyond just the purchase price. Here’s a breakdown of the expenses you should consider:

• Initial Setup: This includes the cost of proper fencing to set up an enclosure, litter, toys and hides. Expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $500 initially, depending on the size and quality of the setup.

• Food and Supplies: Monthly expenses for hay, fresh vegetables (if you choose to feed), and pellets (if you choose to feed pellets) can range from $30 to $60. Don’t forget to factor in grooming supplies and veterinary care.

• Veterinary Care: Regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering (which is crucial for behavioural health) can add up to several hundred dollars annually. It's essential to have a rabbit-savvy veterinarian to ensure your pet’s health needs are met, as not all vets understand the complexities of rabbits and are able to provide effective treatment. Please also keep in mind that any type of lop breed of rabbit is more likely to have issues with their eyes, teeth, ears and digestive system, due to genetic issues from the way they are bred (they’re basically the pug of the bunny world). 

• Emergency Costs: Be prepared for unexpected medical expenses. Having a financial buffer for emergencies is crucial for any pet owner.

The Complexity of Rabbit Ownership: More Than Just a Pet

While rabbits are often viewed as low-maintenance pets, they require significant time and commitment. Here are some complexities to consider:

Behavioural Understanding: Rabbits have unique behaviors, from binkies (happy jumps) to the need for territory. Understanding these behaviors is essential for a harmonious household. Rabbits are also not recommended for young children, and are not an ideal “starter pet”. This is because they are prey animals and do not behave or “play” like other animals, and will get scared or can even bite if a child gets too close. I would personally recommend a dog for young kids rather than a bunny or any similar type of prey animals. 

• Training: Contrary to popular belief, rabbits can be litter trained, but it takes patience and consistency. They can also learn tricks, enhancing your bond. A good litter to start with would be one like this and stick to paper pellets such as these. If you have a baby bunny you may need to start with a smaller tray, so they can hop into it.

• Lifespan: Rabbits can live for 10 years or more with proper care. This long-term commitment requires thoughtful planning for their future, including potential life changes you may face.

Avoiding Breeders: The Case for Adoption

One of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to get your rabbit. While breeders often promise purebreds with certain traits, consider adopting from a shelter or rescue organisation instead. Here’s why:

• Saving Lives: Shelters are filled with rabbits in need of loving homes. By adopting, you give a rabbit a second chance at a happy life.

• Health Benefits: Many shelters ensure that their animals are spayed/neutered and vaccinated, reducing your immediate veterinary costs.

• Support and Resources: Shelters often provide valuable resources and support for new rabbit owners, helping you navigate the initial transition.

• Fostering: If you aren’t completely sure about getting a rabbit or the care requirements involved, you can reach out to rabbit rescues and volunteer to foster a bunny. This way you get a taste for rabbit ownership and may be able to make a more informed choice as to whether it is the right pet for you. 

Is a Bunny Right for You?

Ultimately, deciding whether a rabbit is the right pet for you involves careful consideration of your lifestyle, commitment, and ability to meet their needs. If you’re ready to invest time, energy, money and love into a furry companion, rabbits can offer endless joy and affection.

Before making the leap, ask yourself:

• Do you have enough space and time to dedicate to a rabbit?

• Are you prepared for the financial responsibilities?

• Can you commit to learning and understanding rabbit behaviour?

If you answer yes to these questions, you might just be ready to welcome a bunny into your life. 

Renee xx
The Pampered Bun

Setting Up the Right Home for Your Rabbits: Bunnies Don’t Live Outside!

When it comes to caring for rabbits, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where your bunny will live. While some may think that a hutch or cage outdoors is sufficient, this couldn't be further from the truth. In this post, we’ll explore why hutches and cages are inadequate for rabbits and the dangers associated with outdoor living. Most importantly, we’ll provide you with tips on setting up the perfect indoor enclosure that ensures your bunnies are happy and healthy.

Why Hutches and Cages Are Too Small

1. Space Requirements

Rabbits are naturally active and social animals that need ample space to move around, binky, zoomie and flop. Unfortunately, many commercial hutches and cages fail to meet these basic space requirements. The minimum recommended space for a single rabbit is approximately 24 square feet, but many hutches provide significantly less. A confined space can lead to a range of physical and psychological problems, including obesity and stress. Rabbits also need to move around for their digestive and mental health, which is a core part of keeping them happy and healthy.

2. Mental Stimulation

Rabbits are intelligent creatures that thrive on mental enrichment. Living in a small cage or enclosure limits their ability to explore and engage in natural behaviours, such as digging and chewing. This lack of stimulation can result in boredom and anxiety, leading to destructive behaviours and unhappiness.

3. Health Concerns

Being confined to a small area increases the risk of various health issues, including dental problems, obesity and increases the risk of gastrointestinal stasis. Regular exercise is vital for a rabbit’s health, and a cramped hutch simply cannot provide the necessary environment for them to thrive.

The Dangers of Outdoor Living

While some owners believe that outdoor hutches are a suitable alternative, they pose significant risks to your rabbit’s health and safety:

1. Predator Threats

Outdoor rabbits are vulnerable to a variety of predators, including dogs, cats, foxes, and birds of prey. Even with a sturdy hutch, there's always a risk that predators can breach their defenses, putting your pet in danger. Even if they see a predator skulking past, it could cause enough stress to be fatal.

2. Weather Extremes

Rabbits are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Extreme heat can lead to heatstroke, while cold weather can result in hypothermia. Outdoor rabbits are exposed to unpredictable weather conditions that can jeopardise their health.

3. Pests and Diseases

Living outdoors exposes rabbits to pests such as fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, which can carry harmful diseases. Additionally, outdoor environments may contain toxic plants or chemicals that can be harmful to your pet. Research shows that bunnies that permanently live outdoors have a much shorter lifespan than rabbits that live permanently indoors.

Creating the Ideal Indoor Enclosure

To ensure your rabbit has a safe and enriching environment, follow these guidelines for setting up an indoor enclosure:

1. Designate a Spacious Area

Choose a room or a large pen where your rabbit can freely roam. A large dog pen or a dedicated rabbit room is ideal. Aim for a minimum of 24 square feet of space to allow for exercise and play, a pen like this is ideal.

2. Comfortable Bedding and Flooring

Use soft, absorbent bedding in their litter tray, such as paper-based products like this. Avoid cedar, pine shavings or any type of clumping litter, as these can be harmful to rabbits. Ensure the floor is non-slip to prevent injuries during playtime. Memory foam flooring such as this can help protect their feet and injuries from running on tiles or similar flooring.

3. Incorporate Enrichment

Include tunnels, boxes, and hiding spots in the enclosure to encourage exploration and provide a sense of security. As rabbits are prey animals they naturall like to hide, so it is essential they have hides in their pen such as this . Chew toys and puzzle feeders can also help stimulate your rabbit mentally and keep them entertained.

4. Implement Litter Training

Rabbits can be litter trained, which makes cleaning easier. Set up a litter box with paper-based litter, litter trays with a high back generally seem to work best. This will help maintain a tidy living space.

5. Daily Exercise Routine

Allow your rabbit daily exercise outside their enclosure. Supervised playtime in a rabbit-proofed area of your home is ideal. Ensure that hazardous items, like electrical cords and toxic plants, are out of reach to keep your rabbit safe.

Setting up the right indoor enclosure for your rabbits is essential for their health and happiness. By providing a spacious and enriching environment, you can ensure that your bunnies lead fulfilling lives. Remember, rabbits are happiest and healthiest in safe indoor settings, away from the dangers of outdoor living. Your commitment to creating a nurturing home will result in a loving and lasting bond with your adorable companions!

Renee xx

The Pampered Bun