By Hillary Frank, DVM, ABVP (Avian)
Rabbits have become a popular pet. There are about 45 different breeds of rabbits, including various types of dwarf, rex, lop and angora breeds. Wild rabbits like cottontails and jackrabbits do not adapt well to captivity, can carry diseases, and are illegal to own because they are native wildlife.
A rabbit is a gentle, quiet animal, which makes a good pet if well cared for. Each has a unique personality and will become tame and friendly with gentle handling. However, a rabbit may scratch, bite or kick if frightened. When picking up your rabbit, always support the hindquarters. They have powerful hind leg muscles and can easily injure their back and spine.
Rabbits must be confined to a large hutch or cage when not supervised. Rabbits like to explore their surroundings, so you must “rabbit-proof” your house to prevent inquisitive nibbling on wood furniture, electrical cords and toxic houseplants. Rabbits are playful and need safe toys such as cardboard tubes, safe wooden toys or PVC tubing. Environmental temperatures should be kept under 80 degrees because they are susceptible to heatstroke. Litter box training can improve cleanliness.
After purchasing a rabbit, it should be examined immediately and annually to screen for any early signs of health problems. Spaying and neutering should be done before puberty (4-6 months of age) to prevent reproductive problems such as uterine cancer, and to reduce aggressive behavior.
Feeding the proper diet will prevent most common medical problems. Your rabbit should be offered large amounts of clean grass hay daily. Alfalfa hay and pellets should be given only for the first six months; then conver completely over to the grass hay and pellet diet. Many rabbits do best if fed exclusively grass hay.
Small amounts of vegetables can be introduced as treats. Fancy pellet mixtures with added nuts, seeds and dried fruit are readily eaten by rabbits but are too high in energy and can encourage the growth of abnormal bacteria, leading to sudden death.
Fiber is an important part of a rabbit’s diet. It stimulates normal intestinal movement, supports the growth of normal, healthy bacteria in the cecum for proper digestion, and prevents overgrowth of dangerous bacteria. Grass hay with less leaf and more stems is best to feed to rabbits, because it has a higher fiber content and is lower in energy.
Owning a rabbit can be fun and rewarding. With proper feeding and care, rabbits can provide many years of enjoyment.
Hillary Frank, DVM, Dipl. ABVP (Avian) is the owner of North Central Animal Hospital, P.C., 20 W. Dunlap Ave. She can be reached at 602-395-9773. The information in “Pet Primer” is provided as general information only. For specific advice on your pet’s health, consult your veterinarian.
