Rabbits are gentle, intelligent, and social animals who make wonderful companions when cared for properly. However, many people underestimate their needs, treating them as low-maintenance pets. In reality, rabbits require as much time, attention, and commitment as cats or dogs. Without proper care, they can suffer from health problems, boredom, and loneliness.

This guide provides a complete overview of responsible rabbit care, from choosing the right companion to housing, nutrition, health, and common mistakes to avoid.

1. Choosing the Right Rabbit

Rabbits come in many breeds and personalities. Some are more active and playful, while others are calm and reserved. Before adopting, consider your living space, lifestyle, and time commitment.

Adopt from shelters or rescue organizations rather than buying from breeders or pet shops. Avoid supporting commercial breeding mills, which often treat rabbits inhumanely.

2. Housing and Environment

Rabbits should never be confined to small hutches or cages for most of their lives. They need space to run, jump, and explore.

Best Housing Practices:

• Free-roaming in a rabbit-proofed room or home
• Large indoor pens with enough room to hop and stand fully upright
• Outdoor time only under supervision in secure, predator-proof enclosures

Rabbit-Proofing Tips:

. Cover wires, block access to toxic plants, and remove items that could be chewed or swallowed.

3. Diet and Nutrition

Rabbits have very specific dietary needs to maintain digestive health.

Essential components include:

• Unlimited fresh hay (timothy, orchard grass, or meadow hay) to support digestion and dental health
• Fresh vegetables such as leafy greens (romaine, kale, parsley, cilantro, dandelion greens)
• Limited pellets that are high in fiber and free from added seeds or artificial ingredients
• Occasional fruit as a treat (apple slices without seeds, berries, banana, or melon)
• Fresh, clean water available at all times

Foods to avoid include

iceberg lettuce, beans, peas, onions, garlic, and anything high in sugar or starch.

4. Social Needs and Companionship

Rabbits are social animals who often thrive in pairs or groups. They form strong bonds with other rabbits and with humans.

If adopting more than one rabbit, proper introductions are important to avoid fighting. Neutering or spaying also prevents aggression and health risks.

Daily interaction with guardians is equally vital. Rabbits enjoy gentle handling, playtime, and enrichment activities.

5. Grooming and General Care

Regular grooming keeps rabbits healthy and comfortable.

• Brush regularly, especially during shedding seasons, to prevent hair ingestion
• Trim nails as needed
• Provide chew toys and wooden blocks to help wear down teeth, which grow continuously
• Never bathe rabbits in water; spot-clean with a damp cloth if necessary

6. Training and Enrichment

Rabbits are highly trainable. With patience, they can learn to use litter boxes, respond to their name, and perform simple tricks.

Provide enrichment through tunnels, cardboard boxes, digging boxes, and safe chew toys. Rotation keeps activities interesting and prevents boredom.

7. Health and Veterinary Care

Rabbits require specialized veterinary care from professionals experienced with small mammals.

Key Health Tips:

• Annual health checkups are recommended
• Spaying or neutering prevents reproductive cancers and unwanted litters
• Monitor for signs of illness such as reduced appetite, drooling, diarrhea, or changes in behavior
• Dental problems are common due to continuously growing teeth—watch for difficulty eating or weight loss

8. Common Mistakes Rabbit Guardians Make

• Confining rabbits to small hutches or cages
• Feeding only pellets or the wrong foods
• Failing to provide daily exercise and enrichment
• Neglecting grooming or dental health
• Treating rabbits as “starter pets” for children without proper supervision

Final Thoughts

Caring for a rabbit is a long-term commitment, often lasting 8 to 12 years or more. When given space, proper nutrition, social interaction, and veterinary care, rabbits become affectionate and engaging companions.

By approaching rabbit care with responsibility and compassion, you create a home where your companion can thrive, expressing their true personality and living a full, happy life.

For more resources, visit the House Rabbit Society at rabbit.org and other trusted animal welfare organizations.