Rabbits
Rabbits are one of the most popular pets in Scotland, next to dogs and cats. Despite this, the level of care they need is often underestimated. The average life expectancy of a bunny is eight to 12 year but they can live longer and they prefer to live in pairs or groups. Therefore, it is essential that anyone interested in getting rabbits understand how big a commitment they can be and how to meet their welfare needs.
Despite having been commonly kept as pets for many years, many people still have the misconception that rabbits are ‘starter’ animals for children. In fact, they do require a lot of care in order for them to stay happy and healthy. Whilst children may be keen to have rabbits and interact with them, an adult should always be responsible for their welfare.
Sadly, an average of 426 rabbits are brought into our care each year. Over 80% of those have suffered cruelty or neglect, or have been found straying. If you’ve done your research and decided a rabbit is the right pet for you, please consider rehoming one or two of the many bunnies we have in our centres.
Costs
The cost of rabbits can be more than people expect. When thinking about getting rabbits, it’s important to understand the expenses involved. On top the initial cost or rehoming fee, and the essentials for their accommodation, you’ll also need to calculate the regular costs for food, bedding, and enrichment. It’s estimated that owners typically spend over £900 a year per rabbit. You’ll also have to consider the veterinary costs involved in keeping your rabbit safe and healthy, such as neutering, microchipping, vaccinations and any other medical treatment they may need.
When rehoming a rabbit from one of our centres, they will be fully vet checked and microchipped. This is included in the rehoming fee. We always encourage owners to insure their pets and you’ll receive four weeks of free insurance from PetPlan as well as free access to Pawsquad for 10 days after rehoming.
Time and effort
Sadly, many rabbits spend their life confined to a tiny hutch at the bottom of the garden with little socialisation from humans or other rabbits.
Rabbits are long-living, inquisitive and active animals who need a lot more mental and physical stimulation than many people realise. A minimum of two hours of your day should be dedicated to building a bond with your rabbits, providing food and a clean living environment.
Living environment
Whether your rabbits live indoors or outdoors, they require a lot more space than many people realise. They need to be given a large enough area filled with enrichment so that they can exhibit natural behaviours like running, jumping and digging.
Rabbits are very sensitive animals and often do not enjoy being picked up, so children would need to be educated on how to interact with rabbits and should always be supervised around them.
Other pets
Rabbits are very social animals who thrive living in bonded pairs or groups, therefore we recommend rehoming two or more. If you already have a rabbit, introducing them to a new bunny buddy should be done carefully and gradually.
Remember rabbits are a prey species and will often find being in the company of larger and more predatory animals stressful as this can make them feel threatened. However, if you have another animal(s) such as a dog or cat in your home, this doesn’t mean you can’t own rabbits too. With the right management, provision and accommodation they could live in the same home without upsetting each other. Seek advice on your individual situation either from the rehoming centre, breeder or an accredited animal behaviourist. Ensure the animals do not have free access to each other and the rabbits have somewhere to hide.
Rabbits and guinea pigs are not compatible to live together as they have very different needs. There is also a risk of passing on diseases when they live too close to one another.
Responsibility
Getting a rabbit brings a higher level of responsibility than a lot of people realise. They can live for up to 12 years so you need to be committed to caring for them long term. It’s also wise to have a plan should you become unable to care for your rabbits. Our free Forever Care service gives owners peace of mind that we will take your pet into our care if you pass way or can no longer care for them.
Where should you get a rabbit from?
The UK is facing a rabbit welfare crisis due to overbreeding which has led to huge increases of rabbits being abandoned or handed in to rescue centres. We strongly recommend rehoming from one of our centres. We always have plenty of rabbits, all of whom have their own personalities. Remember to keep checking the website as we have new rabbits ready for rehoming daily.
Every rabbit we rehome is microchipped, wormed against E. caniculi as standard, and vaccinated against myxomatosis and rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease (RVHD). They are also fully vet-checked which includes checking for fleas, ticks and ear mites and treating if they have them. We also include free pet insurance for four weeks. Owners have the option to extend this into lifelong cover, which many insurers do not offer. You will also receive free access to Pawsquad for 10 days.