Caring for your rabbit

Like all pets, we have to give our rabbits the correct care so they can live an enriched and fulfilling life. We've put together the key elements of rabbit care below to help you out.

Social Needs

Rabbits are social animals and should be kept in neutered, bonded pairs. As an owner, you should also make time to bond with your rabbits. You can do this through grooming, toys and treats.

Behavioural

Rabbits need lots of activities to keep them occupied. Small animal puzzle toys or scatter feeding can encourage rabbits to forage for food as they would in the wild. You can also create burrow boxes so rabbits can express their natural urge to dig and burrow.

Housing

A pair of average-sized rabbits need a living space of 3m x 2m and a run height of 1m as a minimum, and should include spaces to hide, sleep, eat and toilet. Hiding places should have an entrance and an exit, and there should be the same number of hiding spaces as rabbits, plus one extra. Each rabbit should also have their own litter tray where possible, depending on your set up.

Nutrition

Feeding a healthy diet is an essential part of rabbit care. Rabbits should be eating a portion of hay roughly the same size as their body every day. They should also be given a small amount of pellets and leafy greens, while treats can be given in moderation.

Health

Your rabbits should be visiting the vets for a check-up at least once a year. During these check-ups, your vet can check their weight, teeth and give them their vaccinations. Your rabbits, whether they live indoors or outdoors, should be vaccinated against myxomatosis, VHD1 and VHD2.

Hygiene

Litter trays and/or toilet areas should be cleaned daily. This is particularly important in the summer months to help avoid fly strike. Hutches, cages and living spaces should be completely cleaned and disinfected, and bedding changed once a week.

Teeth

Did you know, a rabbit’s teeth grow continuously throughout their lifetime? Growth can be as fast as one centimetre per month! Their teeth need to be worn down through gnawing and eating to keep them healthy – another important reason to provide the correct diet.