by Artisttia Yarns

Created on: April 12, 2009   Last Updated: April 23, 2009

Rabbits are wonderful pets. They love companionship. However, until they get to know their new family remember, "Rabbits are shy and timid creatures." Just as it takes a newborn infant time to bond with its parents, it will take the rabbit time to bond with new their family.

Do You Want to Include A Rabbit In Your Household?

Rabbits live from 5 to 15 years. Before you decide whether or not a rabbit is right for you, you may want to know more about the rabbits before you adopt one.

Rabbits need approximately as much care as a cat. Like some cats, rabbits need to be spayed or neutered to decrease behavioral issues and health risks. Although a rabbit can be entertaining to watch while in its cage, being in its cage is not very entertaining for the rabbit. Rabbits need room to roam and romp. Rabbits that spend their life in a cage will become depressed. Rabbits require at least two-in-house-hours of "freedom" from their cage in order to be happy.

Domesticated rabbits belong in the house not outside in a hutch. Domesticated rabbits, unlike wild rabbits, can not tolerate extreme temperatures in weather be it cold, hot or high humid conditions. They are also more prone to disease and behavioral issues when they live outside.

Qualities that Make Rabbits a Good Pet Choice:

*Rabbits can form close bonds with their human family. They can show their affection by circling the feet of their "parents", nuzzling close or licking them. They may even make soft grunting noises at you. The more time you spend with them, the more time they seem to want to spend with you.

*Rabbits enjoy the attention of being petted or brushed. However, they don't like to be held for long periods of time.

*Rabbits, like cats can be litter box trained.

*Rabbits are quiet unlike some dogs. Your neighbors or landlord won't be reporting you to the police because your rabbit was too loud.

*Rabbits are a joy to watch while they play and can be taught to do tricks.

*Rabbits are intelligent creatures. They can let you know by thumping with their back leg if they have a need or want, or if they are unhappy or fearful.

*Rabbits don't usually bite unless cornered or frightened.

*Rabbits like people have unique individual personalities. This variety is the spice of life.

*Rabbits, like cats are frequently grooming themselves.

Negatives to Consider Prior to Adopting

*Rabbits can be willful. They want what they want when they want it! If they don't want to be handled they may nip at you.

*Rabbits nip to communicate displeasure.

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