Rabbit Care

Housing

If you choose to keep your pet outdoors it is important to choose as large a cage as possible, at least four times the size of your rabbit and attach a wire run so that it can enjoy the grass and fresh air. If you have a very secure garden then you could let it out occasionally provided you supervise it's activities at all times or it could escape into a neighbours garden or worse, eat some of your Mum's best plants

Diet

A healthy diet is based on good quality rabbit pellets and ample fresh hay. Add at least two cups of fresh vegetables per 6 lbs of body weight each day. Good choices are dark green leafy vegetables and root vegetables. Small amounts of fresh fruit such as apples may be given as a treat. Fresh water in a clean bottle should be available at all times. Note that some rabbits can be sensitive to fresh food and may suffer from diahorea occasionally. It is worth checking this out with your vet if your rabbit suffers from this.

Cleaning

Remove soiled litter daily and wash food dishes, water bottles and the cage bottom weekly. Always rinse and dry the cage well before returning your pet. Fertility All pet rabbits should be spayed or neutered by a vet to avoid unwanted babies. Spayed or neutered rabbits also live longer, healthier lives and make better companions.

Health

Rabbits are prone to intestinal blockages, due to swallowing hair while grooming. Regular grooming can help minimize this problem. Be alert and consult a vet if you notice signs of illness or injury such as: lack of appetite; change in droppings; bloated abdomen; runny nose; labored breathing; head tilt; urinary problems; lumps or bumps.

Warning

Antibiotics of the Penicillin family, such as Amoxicillin, are toxic to rabbits and should NEVER be used.

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