Rabbits are viewed as small animals that are less demanding and easy to care. This is a misconception that has resulted in high numbers of abandoned rabbits. Despite their small size, rabbits are the most expensive pets that you can ever keep.

Before you consider rabbit as a perfect pet for you, here are common mistakes new rabbit owners make that you should avoid.

Feeding rabbit on lettuce only

A nutritional diet is mandatory for a rabbit to remain healthy. Overfeeding your bunny with lettuce leads to digestive problem and diarrhoea. Lettuce is also low on nutritional value and lacks fibre which is vital for a smooth running of the digestive system. Keep the diet simple with dark green leafy vegetables, carrots, broccoli and occasional fruits.

Rabbits are not meant for the children

 Rabbits hate being cuddled especially if they have not been trained on how to be cuddled. As a result, your child can easily drop them resulting to broken spines and limbs. If parents knew how fragile these pets are, they would not consider handing them over to kids. 

Rabbits have a lifespan of up to 8 -10 years if well cared for. It takes a knowledgeable adult to identify a sick or hurt bunny by observing the change of behaviour. Thus entrusting a child with these lovely pets is a disservice to their lifespan.

Not rabbit proofing your home 

Rabbits are gnawing animals by nature. They tend to eat anything they come across including your favourite spot shoes. Bunnies also tend to dig the ground as they try to align with their natural habitat. This tends to expose them to predators. To keep your rabbit safe, please ensure your home is rabbit proof before making the purchase.

Caging your rabbit

Pet rabbits are domesticated animal thus cannot thrive outside. This does not mean that they should be caged. Caging cuts their lifespan by half. Pet stores normally sell cages that are too tiny even for young bunnies. The tiny cages reduce their movement resulting to health problems ranging from obesity and deformities.

Rabbits are social animals and they love moving around as well as jumping up and down. Denying them space is not only cruel but also insensitive. The recommended housing for a rabbit is eight square feet and an exercise space of at least 24 square feet. This space should be available five hours per day.  

Bottom line

If well-taken care of, a rabbit can live up to a decade. Most rabbits have been abandoned by irresponsible owners. If ready for one, please adopt instead of shopping and provide the best care.