by Rachelle de Bretagne

Created on: November 08, 2008

Rabbits are very special and it is important to decide whether you are a suitable owner to a rabbit before making a decision which may be a mistaken one. This article is written by a rabbit owner, based on a foundation of knowledge of the intricate behavior patterns of rabbits and their needs, and is split into sections for clear reference, to help you to decide if indeed you would make a suitable owner for a rabbit.

*Caged rabbits.
*House rabbits.
*Day to day care.
*Veterinary costs.
*Food costs.
*Dangers to be aware of.
*Behavior traits which help you assess suitability.

Caged rabbits.

The first decision to make is whether you have room in your home for a rabbit or whether it would be a caged rabbit. This is vital in the planning stages, since caged rabbits need a lot more care than people suspect. The rabbit cage must be kept clean. The rabbit needs to be in an environment they find comfortable and it is necessary to decide before buying a rabbit who will deal with the day to day needs and handling of the rabbit. A caged rabbit will also involve the cost of the hutch, bedding, eating and drinking facilities and have an area for nesting and one for toilet purposes.

House rabbits.

House rabbits can be trained to use a litter tray. They are extremely clean rabbits, but even clean rabbits have accidents. In the home, fur will form on carpets. It is part of the day to day care of rabbits to accept that you will have clearing up to do. Male rabbits spray. This lets out a horrible smell though this can be curbed and made acceptable. House rabbits also like to go into places where they should not go, and it is important to decide if you can rabbit proof your home, to make it safe for them, and also convenient for you. They love chewing, and they don't mind what it is that they chew. Telephone wires and electrical cables will need to be out of their reach as these are favorite areas.

Day to day care.

A rabbit needs regular grooming because their digestive tract is different to other furry animals, in that it will never allow them to cough up hair which is swallowed by accident during self grooming. These animals love being clean and will lick their fur in an attempt to clean themselves. If grooming is not performed, you risk the health of the rabbit, so be prepared to understand that grooming takes time and patience.

You will also need to recognize those illnesses to which rabbits are prone. It takes a while, though unlike other pets such as dogs and cats, the manner in which

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