Bunnies
CARE Sheet
Rabbits
(family Leporidae of the order Lagomorpha)
Origin:Europe
EuropeSize:Varies by Breed
Varies by BreedPet Status:Excellent
ExcellentLife span:6-10 years
6-10 yearsBreeding ability: Good, if certain parameters are followed. Gestation period of 28-32 days; average litter varies
Good, if certain parameters are followed. Gestation period of 28-32 days; average litter variesCompatibility with other species:Not recommended
Not recommendedFeeding:Pelleted food, fruits, vegetables & vitamin supplements
Pelleted food, fruits, vegetables & vitamin supplementsBio:
Rabbits are ground dwellers that live in environments ranging from desert to tropical forest and wetland. Their natural geographic range encompasses the middle latitudes of the Western Hemisphere. In the Eastern Hemisphere rabbits are found in Europe, portions of Central and Southern Africa, the Indian subcontinent, Sumatra, and Japan. The European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) has been introduced to many locations around the world, and all breeds of domestic rabbit originate from the European.
General diet:
Rabbits are herbivores so they need fruits, vegetables and grains in their diet. Carbohydrates and fibers are the basis of their diet. A good stable food is the Rabbit Pellet mixes found in pet stores. Fresh water must also be provided on a daily basis.
Treats/extra foods:
Additions to a Rabbit's diet should be made carefully. Fresh greens, timothy/grass hay and small amounts of fruits or vegetables are appropriate.
Vitamins/supplements:
Most good quality commercial rabbit foods provide the vitamins your rabbit will need. Drops and tablets are also available to supplement if needed. Kale, cabbage and other dark leafy vegetables are also high in fiber and ascorbic acid. A well balance diet will generally provide all the vitamins your rabbit needs.
Housing:
Housing is a major factor in the maintenance of a healthy pet. Enclosures can be made of wire, stainless steel, durable plastic or glass as long as they provide good ventilation, are easy to clean and provide plenty of room. Wood is generally not good as it is difficult to clean and rabbits may destroy it by chewing. The recommended minimum size for a single rabbit varies by breed. Ideally, the bigger the space the better.
Sanitation/General care:
Use bedding materials that are clean, non-toxic, absorbent, dust free and easily replaced. Some bedding materials are wood shavings (Aspen or kiln dried pine NO CEDAR), shredded paper, processed ground corn cob or commercial pellets. Provide a house or other structure where the rabbit can hide when frightened or tired. Keep the cage on a stand or sturdy table away from cold, damp areas, out of direct sunlight and drafts. Rabbits have a very sensitive nature and are also more comfortable in quiet spots, away from noises, stress and other animals. Rabbits can be housed indoors or outside. If housing your rabbit outdoors, be sure to research the proper outdoor hutch construction carefully.
General Maintenance:
Clean the cage thoroughly with hot water at least once each week. Always remove non-eaten greens, fruits and vegetables at the end of each day and wash all food dishes with hot water at least twice weekly. Make sure that a constant supply of fresh water is available at all times. rabbits need plenty of exercise and love to play. They should be handled regularly and can be allowed to run free, under strict supervision. You can also place toys, ladders, blocks and other materials in their cages to encourage this type of activity. Rabbits are nocturnal so they will also require quiet rest periods during the day.
Health care:
Rabbits are hardy animals and rarely get sick, however if not taken care of properly, they can become ill. Signs that an animal is not feeling well include listlessness, huddling in a corner, a dull matted coat, refusing to eat, labored breathing, runny nose, watery eyes and constipation. In most cases medications are available at your pet store, in some cases a trip to the vet may be required.
Taming/handling:
When picking up a rabbit, do so with both hands evenly supporting the entire body. Be sure to support their back legs carefully. Rabbits are extremely powerful kickers and can harm themselves or others with their powerful hind legs. Rabbits can also be taught simple tricks, such as standing on their hind legs to take food from your fingers. With enough time and patience, rabbits can even be taught to use a litter box.
Supplies checklist:
Appropriately sized cage
Food bowls and water bottle
Bedding
High quality guinea pig pellet
Timothy hay
Vitamin supplements
Hiding place and/or nesting box
Chew sticks and toys
Book on the raising and training of Rabbits.
One Stop
Country Pet Supply
We currently have the following bunnies available for sale:
Bunnies have been selling at both store locations faster than we we are able to update our site. PLEASE call your closest location for the current availability in that store.
