How to Buy a Rabbit as a Gift

You might be tempted to snatch up a furry little rabbit from the pet shop, especially around Easter. But bunnies can be difficult pets, and it's best to think it over before giving one as a gift.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rabbit Bottle Waterers
• Rabbit Cages
• Rabbit Feeds
• Rabbit Pellets
• Rabbit Salt Spools
• Rabbit Treats
• Rabbit Vitamins

1. Consider giving a gift certificate for a rabbit and letting the new owner pick out his or her own bunny.

2. Visit your local animal shelter (if you opt against the certificate). Many unwanted rabbits are abandoned at shelters each year, especially following Easter. Even if the shelter doesn't have a rabbit available, it can often locate bunnies who need homes.

3. Consider what type of rabbit the recipient would like. If he or she wants a house pet, avoid hyperactive breeds such as English spots. Choose a more docile variety, such as New Zealand or Dutch.

4. Look for clear eyes and a nose free from discharge when selecting the animal.

5. Avoid buying a bunny that is lethargic, has droopy ears or doesn't pay attention to your voice when you talk.

Tips & Warnings

• Rabbits shouldn't spend their entire lives in cages. Make sure that the new owner will have the time and space to let the animal exercise.
• If a child asks for a bunny, consider substituting a stuffed rabbit for a real one, which can bite and claw.
• Rabbits don't always make good pets. They have sharp claws and long teeth, and as they get older, many do not enjoy being handled.

Resources

• The House Rabbit Society

on 9/23/2006 Rabbits take a ton of work, and if you dump a rabbit on someone who can't handle the responsibility, you're dooming that rabbit to euthanizing or a life in a shelter. Don't be the reason rabbits are filling shelters and rescues.

on 8/8/2006 Rabbits seem cute and cuddly, and usually are, but sometimes (just like us) they can throw fits. Be sure that you are ready to give your new bunny the proper care and attention it needs before buying it.

on 8/8/2006 Spaying or neutering is an absolute must for rabbits. Bad habits can be alleviated by spaying or neutering. Fixed bunnies are easier to litterbox train and easier to socialize. Shelter rabbits are usual fixed before they are adopted out to families.

on 8/8/2006 Most shelters spay or neuter rabbits before adopting them out. Oregon Humane Society adopts pet rabbits for $25. Vets change approx. $50 for a male and $100 for a female. So, a shelter rabbit is an excellent value.

on 11/22/2005 Be ready to give a house bunny the care and love it needs. Never give a rabbit as a gift. You don't know if the recipient will want to spend all the effort and time a bunny requires. But, if you choose a rabbit as your pet, be sure to have your house bunny-proofed before you bring it home (lots of chew-things, no toxic plants, and no electrical cords lying out for the bunny to bite down and shock him/herself). Baby gates are useful to block off dangerous rooms. Also, check out the vets in your area and get one that is used to exotic pets. Some vets don't know how to properly treat bunnies.