[ Tablet users, try the "web" version by clicking on "web" at the bottom of this page for a better, user-friendly format. ]

Deciding on whether a rabbit is a right fit for you & your family...

Obviously, I adore rabbits and think they make lovely family pets. However I also have seen, far too often, people who acquired a rabbit only to be disappointed due to false expectations. The myths section has a list of some of the most common misunderstandings concerning rabbits. If, after reading those, you find yourself still interested in sharing your life with a bunny, there are a few more thoughts to consider. 
Since rabbits should not spend the majority of their day in a cage, it’s important that a potential bunny owner understand what to expect...
  • If you are meticulous about your home, then a rabbit may not be for you. While rabbits can be reasonably neat and litter trained, it is the rare rabbit that doesn’t leave the occasional stray poo. The poos are dry and clean, and easy to sweep up. Nevertheless, the poos are to be expected.
Picture
  • Bunny proofing is part of owning a rabbit. If you are not willing to make bunny-proofing adjustments to your home’s décor, then a bunny may not be for you. Some rabbits may try to chew on furniture legs, or baseboards. If so, creative bunny-proofing will have to be set in place.
  • Rabbits shed about 4 times per year. Some of those sheds may be heavy. Fur will fly. If that is something you cannot tolerate, then a bunny may not be for you.
  • Rabbits are creatures of habit and can stress with changes and moves. If you travel often, it will be best to have a bunny-sitter come to the home twice a day to care for your rabbit. If this is not practical or reasonable, then a rabbit may not be for you. Traveling with a bunny can be quite stressful for the rabbit.
Picture
  • If you are on a very tight budget, then a bunny may not be for you.  While there are ways to save on the maintenance costs of a rabbit (growing a bunny garden, buying hay by the bale, using wood stove pellets for litter), unexpected vet costs can occur. Since rabbits are considered exotic, their vet costs are not cheap. Money should be set aside for such emergencies. If you get a rabbit that is not already fixed, surgery costs for neutering should also be considered.
And just so there are no illusions about what damage a bunny can do -- especially without bunny-proofing or supervision -- don't miss this link showing the mischief of 30 different rabbits. This illustrates well why bunny-proofing is not a task to be taken lightly!
If the above considerations are acceptable to you, congratulations! The above was written not to discourage anyone, but to be sure that anyone considering a rabbit for a pet understands what to expect and what not to expect.
Rabbits are social, intelligent and complex creatures that deserve proper care and a loving home. The joy they can bring to a home is matched by their amusing antics and unique personalities. Welcome to the world of rabbits!
 
Don't miss the windows under the DECIDING tab.
There you will see how to choose your first bunny and
​get important tips about bringing a rabbit home.