Taking Care Of A Pet Rabbit
With such a loveable and gentle nature rabbits are great pets.They are really happy to be petted or stroked and over time a human can develop a great, interactive relationship with a rabbit.Rabbit care is important and by looking after your rabbit you are doing your bit to ensure it leads a long and happy life.Caring for a rabbit is relatively straight forward and is made easier by following the guidelines below.
Every rabbit needs a hutch, a place of its own to snuggle down to sleep and run around and play.Dont worry about the style of the hutch – your rabbit doesn’t need a designer home! Just enough space to run around and stand on its back legs.In terms of space make sure the hutch is big enough to allow the rabbit to make at least 4 hops in any direction.Just like your own home the ideal hutch should be separated into distinct “rooms” with a space to play, eat, and use the toilet.You will need a larger hutch if you have two or more rabbits.To ensure the rabbit is warm at night you must invest in a good quality bedding. Line the hutch with newspaper and cover with dust free chippings and straw. All the bedding should be changed regularly (a great job for the kid’s pocket money!).Take time to consider where you will be locating the hutch. You do not want to place it in areas of direct sunlight or not enough light.Cover the hutch at night with a breathable fabric so the rabbit is not confronted with any night time predators such as foxes and cats.If your budget will allow you should buy a rabbit run. This provides a protected area in which the rabbit can run around and play.
Did you know that your rabbit needs two types of fibre in its diet? One type which can be digested and one which cannot.Rabbits digest their food twice, which is why this is important.Foods like supermarket brand museli can be high in sugar and starch, both of which are not healthy ingredients. Try and avoid buying this food.Try and buy a specialist vet approved rabbit food.Look for deals on specialist pet food on the internet or go to a pet food retailer.In addition to rabbit food you can always treat your rabbit to everyday food items like turnip, celery, carrot and apple.
Rabbits really do make great pets, and these simple tips will go a long way in ensuring your pet rabbit has a long and happy life.
