Choosing the right rabbit to be your companion animal can be a fun process, but just as in selecting any other animal, there are some things to consider.
First, never buy a pet rabbit on a whim. Rabbits require a lot of time and care. They can live up to 12 years. This is a similar time commitment to many breeds of dogs, so it should not be taken lightly. Make sure that you are committed to cleaning, feeding, and loving your rabbit for its entire lifespan. You also need to think realistically about the breed of rabbit you plan to purchase and how it fits into your lifestyle. Rabbits vary tremendously in size, with adult rabbits weighing anywhere from 5 or 6 pounds to as much as 20 pounds. Grooming requirements vary too, with wool breeds needing daily grooming. You will need to commit to the cost of care for the rabbit throughout its lifetime.
Once you have made the decision to get a rabbit, the next step is to find a reputable breeder or store from which to purchase a rabbit. Finding the proper source for a rabbit is critical to having a happy life with your pet. Rabbits are available directly from breeders or through pet stores or farm stores.
While buying a rabbit at a store may be more convenient, there are some items to consider. Often rabbits at pet stores are less socialized than those purchased from a breeder. This means they may be more difficult to handle at home. They also come with little or no information on their background or health history.
Rabbits purchased from a reputable breeder tend to be well socialized and come with a detailed history. The rabbit breeder can help you better understand the specific needs of the breed of rabbit you are looking at and the rabbit itself.
Finally, you can find rabbits through your local humane society or animal shelter. Some cities even have rabbit rescue groups. These rabbits can make excellent pets as well.
Once you choose a source for your rabbit, you should spend some time with the animal you are considering adding to your home. Just like other pets, each rabbit has its own personality.
Rabbits can be shy, aggressive, friendly, curious, and more. Shy rabbits can be great pets, but they may require more time and patience. Curious rabbits can be mischievous. Think about what kind of personality you want in a rabbit.
Handle the rabbits you are considering bringing home. If you have small hands, a smaller breed may be more appropriate. Watch how the rabbits react when you are near them and while they are still in the cage. Are they relaxed, and do they look comfortable in their cage? Do they come right up and want your attention, or are they shy and hiding in the corner?
While you are observing and handling the rabbits, look at their overall appearance. They should have full, shiny, healthy hair coats, bright eyes with no discharge, and toenails that are trimmed and clean.
Remember, you can always look and not buy. Do not feel pressured to bring home a rabbit that you do not think is right for you.
Consider asking the following questions when looking for a rabbit
- How much have the rabbits been handled?
- Rabbits that have been handled are typically more relaxed when interacting with people.
- What is the current age of the rabbit?
- What breed or breeds are present in the rabbit, and what is the mature size and weight range of this breed?
- Rabbit breeds vary in adult size from 3 pounds to as high as 35 pounds. Understanding the mature weight of the rabbit you are looking at will help you determine if the rabbit you want to purchase will be easily carried and housed once it reaches its full weight.
- Has the rabbit lived inside or outside?
- A rabbit that has grown up and lived inside will have a hard time adapting to outside living conditions.
- Is the rabbit spayed or neutered?
- Spaying or neutering can increase the lifespan of your rabbit and decrease problem behaviors.
- What kind of food is the rabbit currently eating?
- It is a good idea to get some of the food that the rabbit is currently eating. Moving to a new home is stressful enough without changing foods. After your rabbit is settled, you can switch foods if you want to.
- How much is the rabbit eating?
- Knowing how much the rabbit is currently eating will allow you to keep its routine basically the same. You will be able to notice if it is not eating as much as it should be. Stopping eating is often a sign of stress or illness in rabbits.
- Does the rabbit have any particular habits (good and bad)?
- Many rabbit breeders will know the personality of the rabbits. They may be able to give you an insight to their personality.
- What veterinarian does the breeder recommend?
- Rabbits have specialized health concerns, and it is important to find a veterinarian who is familiar with rabbits if you do not already have one.
Lisa Karr-Lilienthal, Ph.D. - University of Nebraska-Lincoln
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