Hoppy and Healthy: A Beginner’s Guide to Proper Rabbit Care

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Rabbits are known for their playful personalities, fluffy appearance, unique behaviors, and gentle nature. They are social animals that make wonderful companions. However, the joy of having a rabbit comes with the responsibility of providing the proper care. Ensuring their well-being should be the owner's utmost priority. Understanding their specific needs is crucial for creating a happy, healthy environment!

Caring for a rabbit properly requires commitment and knowledge, but it is a rewarding experience and a fun learning opportunity. Whether you're a new rabbit owner or looking to improve your care routine, this guide will cover essential aspects of rabbit care. 

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​Getting to Know Your New Rabbit

Rabbits may come off as mysterious, that’s because they are prey animals, meaning their instincts are geared toward caution and self-preservation. This can make them more timid and wary in unfamiliar situations and surroundings. Unlike dogs and cats, which often seek out human interaction and affection, rabbits may need time to feel safe and comfortable in their environment. Every rabbit is unique, so take the time to learn what makes your bunny feel safe and secure. Here are some helpful tips on how to get to know your new friend and build a healthy relationship!

Get on Your Rabbit’s Level

​Rabbits are naturally curious and social animals, but towering can be intimidating.  One of the best ways to foster a connection with your rabbit is to literally get on their level. Sit or lie down on the floor in a relaxed manner. 

​Speak Softly

Shhhh... those big ears are great at conveying sound!. Using a soft, soothing voice when interacting with your rabbit can help them feel more at ease and build trust.

Let Your Rabbit Come to You

​: If you are quiet and patient, they will naturally come over to inspect you. Try not to pet them right away, as they may see it as a threat.  

Offering Treats as a Friendly Gesture

​Your rabbit will appreciate small pieces of carrots or apple as a snack. Feeding their food piece by piece is a fun bonding opportunity, as it helps build a foundation of trust.

Safely Handle and Hold Your Rabbit

Rabbits are ground-dwelling animals, and generally don’t like being held. Most rabbits like physical affection. Try petting their ears, cheeks, and the bridge of their nose, ensuring their comfort and building a stronger bond between you.

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Living Spaces for Your Rabbit (House Rabbit Society)

Keep Your Rabbit in an Exercise Pen

An untrained rabbit can get into a lot of mischief, so they should be kept in an enclosure while you’re not home to supervise and at night when you sleep. Having an exercise pen instead of a cage is recommended, as they usually provide far more space than a cage and can be made larger or smaller as needed.

Housing Size

The bigger the better! A rabbit’s home should be at least 4-6 times the size of your bunny when they are fully stretched out. Here is a general guideline for 1-2 rabbits who have an enclosure:
⦁ Enclosure space: at least 8 square feet
⦁ Exercise space: at least 24 square feet
⦁ Exercise time: able to run and play at least 5 hours per day

Letting Your New Bunny Run Loose in the House

​Rabbits who are learning to use the litterbox need to have limited running space while they learn where their litterbox is and what it is for. More space can be provided as your bunny shows they know where to “go.” The more room your rabbit has to run around in, the more their personality will come out.  

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Your Rabbit's Diet

​A proper diet is crucial for your rabbit's health and well-being. Rabbits have unique nutritional needs that require attention from the owner. Here’s a guide to ensuring your adult rabbit (1-5 years) gets the right nutrition for their health.

Unlimited Hay

​Rabbits need unlimited amounts of hay! It is the most important thing they eat. Hay keeps their GI system moving properly and helps prevent blockages. 

Vegetables

​Minimum 2 cups chopped vegetables per 6 lbs. of body weight per day. Rabbits should get a minimum of three different types of leafy green vegetables daily.

Pellets

​1/4 to 1/2 cup pellets per 6 lbs. of body weight per day.

​Treats

​Look for hay-based treats and only be given to your rabbit sparingly.

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For more information on rabbits, check out these information pages