Anyone considering bringing home a rabbit should know:
- Rabbits have an average lifespan of 8-14 years.
- Rabbits need to be spayed/neutered to prevent cancer and unwanted litters. Up to 80% of female rabbits will develop uterine cancer by age 4-6 if not spayed.
- Rabbits require a diet of hay, pellets, and fresh vegetables.
- Rabbits need to live indoors, inside a family’s home for their safety and health, with 2-4 hours of exercise time in a bunny-proofed environment each day.
- Rabbits need regular veterinary care by a vet with additional training in exotics, which can be expensive.
- Rabbits need an annual RHDV2 vaccine
- Rabbits are not “low-maintenance” pets — they need as much care and attention as dogs and cats. It can also take longer to bond with them since they are prey animals and can be more fearful.
- Most children lose interest in a live rabbit after only a few weeks. Rabbits must have an adult as their primary caregiver.
- Rabbits are the third most frequently surrendered animal at shelters and the third most euthanized.
- According to an ASPCA study, rabbits are more expensive to own than cats or guinea pigs — coming just after dogs in expense.
