Easter is coming up! And it’s a terrible time for pet store bunnies!
Rabbits are marketed as “easy”, short-lived, starter pets, especially during the Easter holidays, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth! A healthy, well cared for bunny can live just as long as the average cat or dog- 10-12 years!
What’s more, they have more complex needs than a cat or a dog. Rabbits are prey animals and do not behave or show affection in the same way as predators like cats and dogs; they don’t deal well with being outside-only animals; they can get sad if they’re on their own and don’t receive enough attention; and if they’re bought as a male and female couple, they can start reproducing from as early as 5-6 months of age, and they can carry multiple litters at the same time!
They have a specialised diet (NOT carrots!), need a specialised living area (unless you want all your things to get chewed up!), and they need specialised vets! Caring for them costs as much as caring for a dog!
They’re a big responsibility!
BUNNY SAFETY SIGNAL BOOST BECAUSE BUNNIES ARE IMPORTANT
Also, bunnies are super active. They shouldn’t be locked in a cage, all day every day and they need mental stimulation and play. Get your bunny toys. I diversified into using parrot toys with the clips and chains removed for my bunny to chew, roll around, and toss, because a lot of bunny toys focus on treats and my bunny already gets fresh veggies and herbs every day, as well as kibble and hay. Most bunny treats are high in sugar which can really mess up their digestion and cause serious health problems, so limiting the amount and types of fruit, flowers, and packaged treats they get is important.