So you’re wondering – What’s the lifespan of a rabbit? And how can I help my bunny live longer?
Indoor house rabbits typically live 8-12 years, depending on their size, breed, and the quality of care they receive. In contrast, outdoor domestic rabbits live only about 3-5 years, and wild rabbits have a much shorter lifespan, often living only 1-2 years.
Several factors influence a rabbit’s lifespan. It’s crucial to spay/neuter, provide a safe and comfortable living environment, ensure a healthy diet, and promote regular exercise. Understanding and addressing these needs can help your rabbit live a long, happy, and healthy life.
Tips for Extending Your Pet Rabbit’s Lifespan
Pet rabbits typically live for 8-12 years, but many have been known to live to the age of 14 or even 16! With lots of love and proper care, they can reach their full life expectancy. Here are some key factors that can help your rabbit live a long, healthy life:
- Provide a safe and comfortable indoor living environment.
- Neuter or spay your rabbit.
- Ensure a healthy diet and plenty of exercise.
- Offer play and mental stimulation with toys and activities.
- Socialize with your rabbit regularly.
- Schedule regular checkups with a rabbit-savvy veterinarian.
How Old Can Rabbits Get?
Domestic rabbits that are spayed or neutered and live indoors typically live around 10 years, but some manage to live much longer. I’ve had a small dwarf rabbit (Izzy) that lived to 14. She was going strong right up until the end. I’ve had friends and colleagues with bunnies who lived to be 15.
Record for The Oldest Rabbit Ever
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the oldest rabbit on record was Flopsy, a wild rabbit raised as a pet in Australia. Flopsy lived an astonishing 18 years and 10 months, passing away in 1983.
The Oldest Rabbit Still Living
As of 2019, According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the oldest rabbit still living was Mick, an agouti rabbit from Illinois who had recently celebrated his 16th birthday. Despite surviving serious health issues and outliving many bunny companions, Mick remained a happy and lively rabbit. It appears another rabbit has not been certified as the oldest living rabbit since Mick.
The website oldest.org also maintains a list of the oldest rabbits.
