Rabbits

In the UK, rabbits are popular pets, due to their naturally sociable and inquisitive nature. Rabbits need a lot of time, patience and attention to become confident, enjoyable pets. It is now not unusual to find rabbits that are living indoors, and also using litter trays!

Due to their social nature, rabbits should be housed with another rabbit for company. However, the type of pairing should be considered to prevent breeding and territorial fighting. Often, we find that a neutered male and female work well together, although this cannot be guaranteed.It is not ideal for rabbits and guinea pigs to be housed together; they have different dietary needs and are often found to bully each other.

Rabbits require a spacious area to live, whether indoors or outdoors. The area should contain a shelter where they can be protected from inclement and/or hot weather, as well as a place to hide away and feel safe. The shelter needs to be big enough to house both or all rabbits, even if they do not wish to be in close proximity to each other. The run needs to be large enough to allow occupants to run, jump, stretch and stand up on their hind legs, and should contain fresh food and water. Rabbits enjoy toys in their run area; tubes, platforms and plant pots (that cannot be chewed!) make interesting toys and should be varied from time to time. It is important to be aware that rabbits often get bored and they need to be able to forage for food, play, run and hide. Changing where and how they obtain their food can be a great way of occupying them.

Rabbits really can make rewarding pets, and are a long term commitment, with expected life spans between 8 and 12 years. As with all species, the cost of veterinary care can be expensive, and we would always recommend insurance to cover the cost of any illness or accident. For all other basic healthcare needs, we have devised Riverside Vet Plan for Rabbits…..