The Pet Rabbit

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     Rabbits have commonly been kept as pets in the western parts of the world since the year 1800s. These mammals have track records of lasting until 12 years if taken cared of properly. Rabbits are usually associated with the Easter season but problems arise in countries where shelters accept rabbits because many are being donated to the shelters by those who receive the animals as Easter gifts.

Notions of rabbits being pets for children are somewhat contradictory to the reality of the matter. Rabbits have fragile bones and backs which would require proper handling to avoid injury which children are not capable of handling themselves. Children also tend to be hyper active with pets which may also harm the rabbit.

Rabbits usually fight with their cage mate of the same gender if one is not neutered. This is due to sexual reasons. Compatibility with other animals should be regarded. Rabbits should not be left alone with dogs or cats since the predatory instincts of the feline and the canine pets tend to apply to the rabbit.

Rabbits have the nature of urinating and defecating in the same place. A litter box is needed to keep the cage clean. Rabbits can recognize voice commands like dogs do. They can identify different speech tones for training purposes. A healthy pet rabbit likes to play. As a solution to this it can be given a toy to play with in order not to bore or frustrate the animal. Chew toys are ideal for rabbits since they have the habit of gnawing things.

There are a number of ways a pet owner can house a rabbit, the norm in raising rabbits usually are done indoors.

Rabbit cages vary from exercise pens, cube condos or normal type cages. These creatures can also be free roaming like dogs and cats are.

Rabbits should be given fresh water and grass hay daily. Green vegetables are also advisable, fruits with lots of sugar contents should be given once in a while. Starchy foods are discouraged. In choosing commercial foods, the owner should avoid those with nuts because this food contains fat which is difficult for the rabbit's metabolism. Too much fat may lead to health problems. Commercial pellets are recommended to be offered as supplements for grass hay and not as the main dietary content.

Rabbits should be checked by the owners regularly because infections are easy to acquire. Teeth clipping is an option because once the teeth is clipped it has to be maintained.

Like any other pet, rabbits should have the required care and attention that it deserves.