Rabbit aka Bunny
About: Rabbits originally became popular as a source of fur and food. They were highly encouraged during both world wars to have at home as a source of meat and clothes. They became popular to breed as people began experimenting and breeding for certain coat colors and traits (such as floppy ears being a trait caused by domestication).
Housing: Many don't realize that bunnies should not be housed in cages/hutches. The minimum living space for one bunny is 8 square feet of unbreakable floor space (12 preferred/also dependent on size of rabbit). This living space should have all of their necessary items. In addition to this living space, they should also have access to an exercise space that is at least 32 square feet of unbreakable floor space.
Environment: Rabbits thrive in environments where temperature can be controlled, such as living indoors. If living outdoors, they are exposed to constant changes in temperature. Rabbits also should be safe from predators and have a clean living space that reduces chances of parasites/disease.
Toys/Enrichment: Bunnies love to chew! Providing them with opportunities to act naturally is important. This means having a constant supply of safe chews, even some puzzles or interactive toys, is a great way to keep them healthy and entertained. A dig box is also a great option as rabbits naturally enjoy burrowing.
Diet: Bunnies need unlimited hay (Timothy preferrably, but Orchard Grass can also be fed unlimited). They should also be fed a fortified pellet that is also hay based. Brands we recommend are: Oxbow Essentials, Small Pet Select, and Sherwood.
Grooming: Rabbits are self-cleaners. They do their best to groom themselves but sometimes they need help from their hoomin. Every couple months, rabbits go through shedding/molting as needed.
Housing: Many don't realize that bunnies should not be housed in cages/hutches. The minimum living space for one bunny is 8 square feet of unbreakable floor space (12 preferred/also dependent on size of rabbit). This living space should have all of their necessary items. In addition to this living space, they should also have access to an exercise space that is at least 32 square feet of unbreakable floor space.
Environment: Rabbits thrive in environments where temperature can be controlled, such as living indoors. If living outdoors, they are exposed to constant changes in temperature. Rabbits also should be safe from predators and have a clean living space that reduces chances of parasites/disease.
Toys/Enrichment: Bunnies love to chew! Providing them with opportunities to act naturally is important. This means having a constant supply of safe chews, even some puzzles or interactive toys, is a great way to keep them healthy and entertained. A dig box is also a great option as rabbits naturally enjoy burrowing.
Diet: Bunnies need unlimited hay (Timothy preferrably, but Orchard Grass can also be fed unlimited). They should also be fed a fortified pellet that is also hay based. Brands we recommend are: Oxbow Essentials, Small Pet Select, and Sherwood.
Grooming: Rabbits are self-cleaners. They do their best to groom themselves but sometimes they need help from their hoomin. Every couple months, rabbits go through shedding/molting as needed.
Safe Veggies (*means to limit these foods to 1-2 times a week at most)
- Romaine lettuce, Green leaf or red leaf lettuce, Arugula, Spinach*, Kale*, Parsley, Cilantro, Butter Lettuce, Dill, Zucchini, Radicchio, Bell peppers, Chinese pea pods, Basil, Broccoli*, Carrots*, Celery, Cabbage (any type), Dandelion greens, Cucumber, Green beans, Summer squash, Brussel sprouts*, Cauliflower leaves, Turnip greens, Bok Choy, Mint, Radish tops, Thyme, Watercress, Mustard greens*, Zucchini squash
- Cherries, Oranges, Apples, Pears, Strawberries, Grapes, Blueberries, Kiwi, Papaya, Peaches, Cranberries, Plum, Pumpkin, Raspberries, Bananas, Apricots, Mango, Cantaloupe, Passionfruit, Nectarine, Peach, Pineapple
- Chocolate, Candy, Caffeine, Onions, Garlic, Mushrooms, Iceberg Lettuce, Avocados, Nuts, Potatoes, Seeds, Corn, Peanut Butter, Dairy, Bread, Meat
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Photos taken from Google Image Search. All credits belong to their rightful owner. These photos are examples. Please note that everything in these photos may not be items Lala’s approves or recommends.
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Resources/References:
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Disclaimer: Any information posted on Lala's Playhouse and Rescue's website is for general information purposes only and should not be used as medical advice, medical opinion, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information given is not to be substituted for medical attention. Always seek licensed veterinary care for your pet's health and treatment. All information on this website is given "as-is." Lala's Playhouse and Rescue is not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, punitive, or consequential damages of any kind whatsoever with respect to the use of this website. You agree that you are using this website solely at your own risk.
