Characteristics: Rabbits vary in size and weight depending on breed. The life expectancy can reach up to 10-12 years. Rabbits are rapid breeders and can mate as early as 3 months of age with gestation lasting 31 days, producing a litter size of 4-12 kits.
Appearance: There are over 45 recognized rabbit breeds in the United States, varying in size from dwarfs (2-1/2 lbs) to giants (16 lbs). Coat type includes short (requiring less grooming) to long hair (requiring more grooming) with glossy to wooly texture. Coat colors range from solid, to spotted, to bi-color and chinchilla.
#1 Preventable Health Problem: Malocclusion (overgrowth of teeth) and gastric stasis (food does not move properly through the digestive tract). In the past, this was commonly diagnosed as hairballs. Prevent both with chew toys and an unlimited supply of hay.
Preferences: Domestic rabbits require regular mental and physical stimulation. They enjoy supervised physical activity out of the cage in a safe place such as an exercise pen or rabbit-proof room with plenty of chew toys.
Best Features: Rabbits can make excellent house pets. They're generally clean and can be housetrained to use a litter box. Not only are they interesting and docile, but they are affectionate and interact well with people.
Housing: Rabbits need room to stretch without feeling confined, so the bigger the cage, the better. Provide enough room so your rabbit can stretch out in any direction with plenty of room to spare. Don't forget to leave enough space for a litter box, food dish, water bottle, hay manger, and other accessories.
Diet: Rabbits are herbivores and should be fed a small amount of nutritionally complete, commercial pellet rabbit food as well as an unlimited amount of hay . Add fresh vegetables such as dark leafy greens, carrots, or sweet peppers daily to vary the diet and ensure proper nutrition. Remember to always provide a supply of fresh water. |
