Rabbit Care

(More information in members section)

Before purchasing a rabbit there are few poi nts to consider.

• A rabbit is not a pet that can be left in the backyard for days on end, (if you are wanting this purchase a hermit crab)
• Rabbits are not toys, they all have different personalities and needs – know rabbits are the same
• Rabbits are not disposable pets, if treated well they can live beyond 7 years

All though rabbits are low maintenance in comparison to a dog or cat they are still living things and need love and attention. Rabbits can get sick and there for may need a trip to the vet. Prevention is the best cure, and this includes a healthy diet, lots of exercise and a warm, safe, clean living environment.
Their diet should consist of a quality rabbit pellets, fresh vegetable and lots or grass or clover hay. Water needs to be checked and changed daily. Many health problems stem from a rabbits diet. Obesity causes many problems and often premature death. To prevent this feed only the recommended amount and make sure your rabbit is out of the hutch every day for at least one hour to exercise.
Rabbit hutch’s and enclosures need to be cleaned regularly. A build up or droppings and urine can cause problems such as sore hocks. Having your rabbit toilet trained makes the cleaning process much easier.
The summer of 2008/2009 was a horrible time for rabbit owners. Please be aware that rabbits are extremely vulnerable in the heat. They can die from heat stress or dehydration in 24hours. Your rabbit will need a lot of attention, constant supply or frozen ice packs, fans, and when possible be brought inside where there is air-conditioning. If you do not have the time to care for your rabbit on hot days please consider another pet. Many rabbits perish in the heat due to uneducated or unwilling owners.
In winter you need to make sure all bedding in clean and dry. Keep your rabbit out of the rain and away from draughts. Housing two rabbits together helps them keep nice and worm.
All though there is not a vaccination for Myxomotosis there is one for the Calisi Virus. You rabbit will need to be vaccinated annually, starting from 12-14 weeks old.
When you purchase a rabbit from Bek’s Bunnies we recommend that you join our members section, that covers most rabbit topics and problems. For further information we recommend the book "The Wonderful World of Pet Rabbits" written by Australian author Christine Carter. We have these books in stock if you are interested. More information about the book can be found in our "Products" section.