Pet rabbits are cute, no doubt. Baby rabbits (called “kits” or “kittens”) are so cute, in fact, that many people find them irresistible. It is no wonder that they often go home with unprepared humans.
Rabbits are adorable but are unique in the way we care for them. They are not easy animals or starter pets.
Learn more in my free course: Rabbit Care Basics by clicking here.
Rapid Growth
The adorable baby rabbit stage is short-lived. In a matter of months, the baby bunny look is gone and a more mature looking rabbit emerges. Once that happens, people who acquired their pet rabbit because of cuteness often lose interest.
As a rabbit approaches adulthood, his behavior also changes. Prior to young rabbits being altered and before they are even fully grown, the teen-stage hormones begin to surge. This causes undesirable behaviors to rapidly increase. For experienced owners who understand hormone-driven behavior, this is not a problem. Others might think their once-cute rabbit is now the worst pet ever, and out the door it goes.
Unwanted pet rabbits that are not responsibly rehomed often die within their first year of life. This can be caused by mishandling, poor diet, outright neglect, improper veterinary care (overmedicating or giving the animal the wrong procedures, treatments or medications), constant confinement (over caging) or otherwise.
Make a Careful Decision
Prior to getting a pet rabbit, consider visiting a place where you can interact with and observe their in-captivity behavior. People who work at pet shelters or own rabbit rescues are sometimes willing to help newcomers in this way.
Also, there are plenty of credible websites and videos which are provided by house rabbit owners who freely share good information. Reviewing existing information will ensure you make an informed decision about whether a rabbit is the right pet for you.
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