Rabbits N'Rodents

Common Myths

Want a rabbit? Best make that two! There are many myths about rabbits which make people believe that a rabbit would be a good pet for them. These myths result in rabbits being brought into homes which are not really suitable. The most common misconceptions are:

1./ Rabbits are cheap- Rabbits are not a cheap pet,  they require a large, secure environment, proper food, yearly vaccinations (UK only), worming and a variety of toys. Not to mention the cost of neutering and any health problems in the future can really add up, hence insurance for rabbits along with dog and cats is now widely available in the UK.

2./They make great pets for Young Children-Rabbits hate being picked up as they are prey animals and feel vulnerable. Left unsupervised, most children will try to pick up a rabbit and it can result in the child be bitten and/or scratched unless the rabbit is exceptionally tame and used to rough handling. Also, rabbits require a lot of work, and therefore children shouldn't be expected to be able to take full care of them. You as their parents or guardian will be responsible of 90% of the daily chores. Not to mention, most young children do not understand responsibility and will therefore become 'bored' of their pet pretty quickly, with few exceptions. However they will still need a lot of help as they cannot be expected to properly clean out or feed their pets, for a start, you'll have to chop up veggies for breakfast and dinner! Are you sure you want to take this on for the next 8 or more years?

3./They are a pet you can cuddle- As mentioned above, rabbits are prey animals and feel vulnerable. Overtime some rabbits will not mind regular handling, however some will never adjust and always put up fight when it comes to cuddles. Keep in mind, the time it takes to tame a rabbit, depends on the individual and it could take a week to months, and even at that, they may only tolerate stroking.

4./They don't take up much space- WRONG! Rabbits need plenty of space, much more than just any old hutch! If they are to be kept outside, a large waterproofed hutch with a big run attached or even better a shed. If they are to be kept as indoor pets, then a large dog crate with time to run around the room or house each night for at least 3 hours. The indoor cages for rabbits are TOO small, and in fact, I have two indoor 'rabbit' cages with hamsters living in them!!

5./If you don't have time for a dog, a rabbit will do- Most people will find it surprising to know, that rabbits require almost as much exercise as a small dog. In the wild, they are very active as they forage, play and flee from danger. Of course you should never, ever take your rabbits for walks like dogs!!

6./They only live for 4-5 years-Smaller breeds, generally live longer lives than the giant breeds, however the typical life span of a rabbit is 8-12 years, with some rabbits living past that. Where will you be in 8-12 years time?  

The Good and Bad points of Keeping rabbits 

Rabbits are not suited to everyone, and some of the negatives have been highlighted in the 'Common Myths' section above. Rabbits need much more than a hutch, food and water. They NEED daily human interaction, toys, something to stimulate their mind and YOU are responsible for them.  Think of them as dogs, only vegetarian and without the walkies.

If you can can cope with the expense, space, time needed and vet bills then chances are you will make a great bunny mummy or daddy!

The joy of owning rabbits is fantastic and you will find yourself enjoying many hours watching, playing with and thinking rabbits! They all have their own personalities, with some being snugglebunnies or cheeky rascals and some are very independent. No two rabbits are the same and overtime you will come to know your rabbits individual likes and dislikes as well as their unique characteristics.

However I cannot stress enough, that rabbits are NOT perfectly suited to everyone and please do not buy on impulse! Research, research and research! 

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