Rabbits are adorable. They have long ears, short tails and hop around in a way that’s hard not to love. They’re also popular pets for many people. However, these creatures need to be handled with gentle touch and knowledge of proper care. Healthy rabbits can live up to 10 years, so they’ll be part of your family for quite a while. That’s why it’s important to know about their needs before adopting or purchasing one.
You might have heard that the words “rabbit” and “bunny” mean the same thing, but that’s not true. Both terms refer to animals within the Leporidae family, but bunny is generally more casual and less scientific. Rabbits have become cultural symbols, conveying joy on holidays like Easter and bringing laughter with animated characters like Bugs Bunny.
Domesticated rabbits have different coats and ears than their wild relatives, but they’re still prey animals that live in a constant state of alert. Their instincts tell them to flee from danger, which may explain why they don’t like being held and may run away, hide or nip when you try.
While bunnies are great for families, they’re best suited to households that can give them plenty of attention. They are prone to stress, and their small size can cause health problems if they’re overcrowded. They’re also sensitive to sudden changes in diet. They rely on hay or grass for most of their nutrition and should only be fed carrots in small amounts (carrots are high in sugar). A hutch should be at least three hops long, with a space for them to stand on solid ground. It’s also important to separate male and female rabbits in a pen or have your veterinarian desex them to avoid unwanted pregnancies.