RSPCA Norfolk West Branch

Rabbits are charming, friendly little animals but they are difficult to look after. They need lots of space, and large homes that can be expensive to create. Like any other pet, keeping a rabbit is a big commitment which should not be taken lightly.

Pet rabbits can live happily either indoors our outdoors. So long as you cater for their physical and behavioural needs, they will stay happy and healthy.

Keeping a single rabbit alone in a hutch cannot even begin to meet the requirements of a social and active animal like a rabbit. In fact, it is cruel. Rabbits living in caged solitary confinement develop all sorts of physical and behavioural problems.

Pet rabbits are closely related to wild rabbits and their basic nature and needs are the same.

Rabbits are active - they need plenty of space, a large run outdoors or freedom to run around the house for several hours every day. Cages should be burrows to rest in, not prisons.

Rabbits are sociable - wild rabbits live in colonies, never on their own. Your pet will need plenty of company either from you, a bunny companion or preferably both. The widespread practice of keeping rabbits and guinea pigs together is not recommended.

Rabbits are a prey animal – they hate being held above ground level. Gaining the trust of a rabbit takes time and effort.

Rabbits need care - their home must be cleaned every day and bedding changed regularly.

Long coated rabbits must be brushed every day and should be considered only as house rabbits by the experienced and dedicated pet owner.

Rabbits should be neutered at an early age. They should have a regular six monthly vaccination against myxomatosis and yearly vaccination against VHD. Your rabbit must be taken to a vet if they are ill or injured. Do not forget that your rabbit will need to be looked after properly when you are on holiday.