So you have decided you want to buy a rabbit, great news! Rabbits are fantastic, sociable creatures, that can give a family as much joy as a cat or dog. But just because rabbits are small does not mean they do not need looking after- in fact, these pets are quite expensive to look after and require a lot of care. However, there are many reasons why rabbits make amazing pets, and here are just a few of them.
Top Reasons Rabbits make Great Pets
by JamieL
Here is an overview on why rabbits make excellent pets, drawn on my own experiences as a first-time rabbit owner!
Rabbits are sociable creatures
Anyone who believes that rabbits are antisocial creatures are mistaken- in fact, rabbits thrive on company, and if you form a bond with them will be more than happy to spend time with you. Whilst rabbits are not huge fans of being picked up, they do enjoy a good cuddle on your lap, and love to be stroked.
Their sociable nature means that rabbits should really be kept in pairs. I have witnessed first hand the difference it makes to go from one rabbit to two, and it is a joy to behold. Rabbits have their own language and are never happier than when communicating with each other, and looking after two is just as easy as looking after one- more so because they are less likely to get bored and cause trouble!
Rabbits can be litter trained
Yes, that's right, rabbits can be litter trained, and very easily too! You will notice as a rabbit owner that they tend to go to the toilet in a particular place- that is because bunnies are actually very clean creatures. If you get yourself a litter tray and place it in their favourite corner, you may find they start to use it themselves. If not, give them a little help- as soon as they go to the toilet elsewhere pick them up and put them in their litter tray- timing is key. As soon as they start going in there by themselves, reward them with a delicious treat. They will soon pick it up and will never go elsewhere!
Rabbits can be kept indoors
Further to my last point, you may believe that rabbits are too messy to be kept indoors, but this is a myth! Rabbits are actually best kept inside because they can have the whole run of the house, and are protected from the external elements. For an indoor rabbit you will need to buy a small indoor cage where they can go and hide and sleep, as well as a litter tray and a place to keep their hay (which they need a constant supply of). If you are keeping a house rabbit it is best to hide all your wires out the way or cover them with a protective casing, because bunnies do have a tendency to chew through them! But once you bring your rabbits indoors you will never look back- you can keep an eye on them to check their health and they make an excellent addition to the family. This also means you don't have to worry about building a run in the garden!
Rabbits can be walked
Yes you heard me right, rabbits can be walked! If you don't want to let your rabbit loose in the garden because you do not want it escaping, you could either build a run or buy a specially designed rabbit leads. These leads are perfect for walking your rabbit around the garden, because they have a harness to go around the rabbit's body and a long lead for you to walk them on. This way you can let your rabbit have a run around outside without fear of it escaping. You may find yourself running around after them though as they binky their way around the garden!
Why do you love your rabbit?
Binky Rabbits
Rabbits binky!
If you have never seen a rabbit binky you must watch this video immediately! A binky is a sign that your rabbit is truly happy- it will jump in the air and kick its legs back, or go on a mad run around the house and twist its body. There are many variations of the binky, but they all show that you are an excellent rabbit owner and should be proud of yourself- your rabbit is truly happy!
Disclaimer
Remember, this is only drawing from my own experiences as a first-time rabbit owner. Please look at the RSPCA website for more information on how to look after your new pet :)
Updated: 10/24/2012, JamieL
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Comments
We had a rabbit that was so excited to see us whenever we came home. We had a cat that used to groom the rabbit.
Rabbits are the best. I love my rabbit to death, she's so much fun. My favorite are her binkies when she's really excited and happy. It warms my heart each and every time!
Thanks for your comment Ragtimelil :)
I miss my bunnies. I will have another when I have more room.