How to Adopt a Pet Rabbit

Rabbits are extremely popular pets during the spring and summer months, since they are associated with Easter and spring. However, adopting a rabbit is a long-term commitment. Rabbits live seven to 12 years on average. If you are considering adopting a bunny, do your research and prepare yourself for your new pet ahead of time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Cage materials
• Rabbit litter
• Rabbit food
• Fresh vegetables
• Hay
• Water bottle
• Toys

1. Read up on rabbits before you make the decision to adopt. Rabbits are usually very friendly, social creatures, but they can also be skittish and temperamental, and they can get into a lot of trouble if they are bored.
2. Consider keeping your rabbit indoors. Indoor bunnies tend to be happier, friendlier, and live longer and healthier lives than their outdoor counterparts. Make sure you build a cage that's at least four times as large as your rabbit, and stock it with rabbit food, water bottles, a litter box, hay and toys.
3. Be prepared to give your rabbit time out of the cage every day. Rabbits love to explore and get bored easily, and they will love getting free roam around your house. They can also be litter-trained. Make sure to block off any electrical wiring, chemicals, poisonous plants or any other dangerous objects that your bunny might want to chew on.
4. Consider adopting a rabbit from a shelter instead of purchasing one from a pet store. Every year, thousands of homeless rabbits await adoption in shelters. Usually, there's nothing wrong with the rabbits; their owners just weren't ready for the level of commitment required for owning a rabbit. This is especially prevalent after Easter, when recently purchased Easter bunnies are given up for adoption after their families realize how much work they require. The local newspaper or websites like Pet Finder and Craigslist are good places to look.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are considering adopting any animal, please do your research and talk to the volunteers at the animal shelter before you make your decision. Adopting a rabbit is a long-term commitment, and you should plan on giving that animal the best life possible for the rest of its life.