by Angie Pollock

Created on: August 26, 2009

Individuals who purchase a rabbit without prior knowledge or learning about their care are open to making many ownership mistakes. Some of these errors in judgment can be learned from but some come at the cost of the rabbit's health and even their life. Before acquiring a new rabbit, learn everything there is to know about ownership and avoid these common mistakes.

Rabbits Eat Lettuce

Yes, rabbits can eat lettuce but rabbits cannot live on lettuce. In fact, too much lettuce can lead to digestive problems and diarrhea. Typical iceberg lettuce has very little nutritional value and lacks the fiber a rabbit needs to keep their system running smoothly. If you want to give your bunny some vegetables, opt for the dark leafy greens, carrots, broccoli, and the tops from carrots or beets. However, a rabbit cannot live on vegetables alone and should be provided with a nutritional diet that includes Timothy hay, pellets, and occasional vegetables and fruits.

Veterinary Care

An important factor that rabbit owners should know is that their pets need veterinary care. Just as you would take your cat or dog to the vet if they were sick, your rabbit may require treatment for illnesses and/or diseases. It is true that pet rabbits do not require regular vaccinations in the US but they still need professional care when they are ill. While spaying and neutering isn't always stressed upon for rabbits, some professionals recommend the procedure to deter certain behavioral problems.

Handling

No matter how many times you've seen Elmer Fudd pulling Bugs Bunny up out of his hole by the ears, it's still not appropriate or safe to handle a rabbit in this manner. Some breeders and/or owners do pick their rabbits up by the scruff (back of the neck) while supporting the bottom. The best way to pick up a rabbit is the "football" hold by placing your body towards the rabbit, place one arm under the rear and one under the front of the rabbit. Always support your rabbit securely as they can squirm since many don't care for being handled.

Environment

One of the biggest mistakes a new owner can make is to bring home their new bunny and just letting it loose to roam throughout the home. Never forget that rabbits love to chew on everything. This includes baseboards, furniture, carpeting, cords, and maybe even your new running shoes. Rabbit-proofing your home or the rabbit's territory will save owners a lot of grief and could even save a rabbit from harm.

Because there are very few animal rescues that take rabbits, owners have been known to release their rabbits into the wild when they tire of their pet. This will only lead to the early death of the rabbit. Most domesticated rabbits do not have the camouflage coat needed to hide from predators and/or they have become so tame, that they don't run when in danger.

A pet rabbit given proper care can live eight years or more which is an important aspect that should be known before taking on the responsibility of rabbit ownership. These unique creatures require the same amount of time and commitment as other pets which includes learning about their care before purchasing one and avoiding deadly mistakes.

Learn more about this author, Angie Pollock.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.