Rabbit Care Guide
Rabbits are social, intelligent, and make wonderful companions—but they have specific needs.
Housing Requirements
Space
- Minimum 4x their body length enclosure
- Room to hop and stand on hind legs
- Exercise pen is ideal
- Never wire-bottom cages
Litter Training
Rabbits naturally choose corners. Place litter box there with:
- Paper-based litter (no clay or clumping)
- Hay on top (they eat while they poop)
- Clean regularly but not completely
- Leave some droppings so they recognize it
Diet Essentials
Hay (Unlimited - Most Important)
- Timothy hay for adults
- Alfalfa hay for babies under 6 months
- Should be 80% of diet
Fresh Vegetables (Daily)
- Romaine lettuce
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Carrots (limited - high sugar)
- Bell peppers
Pellets (Limited)
- 1/4 cup per 6 lbs body weight
- Plain, hay-based only
- Avoid muesli-style mixes
Treats (Occasional)
- Small fruit pieces
- Apple slices (no seeds)
- Banana
Handling
- Never pick up by ears
- Support hindquarters when lifting
- Keep low to the ground initially
- Let them come to you
- Some rabbits don’t like being held
Common Health Issues
- GI stasis (emergency)
- Dental problems
- Ear mites
- Fly strike
- Heat stroke
Spay/Neuter
Essential for:
- Preventing cancer
- Reducing aggression
- Litter box habits
- Longer lifespan