The Ideal Rabbit Hutch

Not only are rabbits cute, they make excellent pets requiring minimal care once you know what you're doing. Bear in mind that rabbits can live anywhere from 5-10 years so make sure you're ready to make that kind of commitment before buying one. Also be prepared to provide your pet with an appropriate rabbit hutch so your bunny can feel safe and secure. Consider the amount of time you have available to interact with your pet because rabbits are social creatures and shouldn't be left alone for long periods of time. If you're thinking of getting more than one rabbit then consider purchasing one of the larger multi-level rabbit hutches available.

Double Decker Rabbit Hutch for the Bunny with Everything by Neil Bird

If you decide to buy an indoor rabbit hutch then you will have to provide it with some outdoor time. A rabbit run in your garden would be ideal but be very careful to make sure it's predator proof. Never leave your rabbit unsupervised in an insecure rabbit run. If your rabbit is kept indoors you must provide it with entertainment. Allow your rabbit freedom to run around in a room but make sure there is nothing to harm it such as chemicals and electric cables. Rabbits love to chew so provide your bunny with toys and safe things to chew on.

If, on the other hand, you have room in your garden or backyard, you may consider an outdoor rabbit hutch. Outdoor rabbit hutches come in a large variety of sizes and designs. Always ensure you choose the proper size for your rabbit, keeping in mind the general rule that the hutch should be at least 4 times the size of your rabbit to allow it to move around fairly easily. Bigger is always better and some rabbit hutches even come with a rabbit run to provide your rabbit with some outdoor exploration experience. Rabbits love to hop around and explore.

When space is limited you can elect to purchase a multi-level rabbit hutch to ensure your rabbit has ample space to move about. Wooden rabbit hutches are the best when choosing an outdoor hutch. Some multi-level rabbit hutches even provide attic and storage space. The attic space can be filled with straw during the winter months to provide warmth and insulation. Storage space can be used to keep food and treats for your rabbit in a convenient and tidy manner. If you live in a particularly cold part of the world, rabbit hutch covers are available to provide extra warmth and insulation.

Whichever design you choose, make sure it is sturdy and safe. Rabbits are easily frightened and your rabbit hutch should provide an enclosed area where your rabbit can hide from anything that intimidates it. So next time you're choosing from amongst the many rabbit hutches available, remember these simple rules: size, safety and practicality. Making the right choice can mean the difference between having a healthy, thriving pet and one that is unhappy and unhealthy.

Author Resource: Tom Woodcock is a Pet Lover, pet product expert and builder of rabbit hutches. To learn more about Large Rabbit Hutches and Rabbit Runs visit him online.

How to Train a Rabbit to Use the Litter Box

Training a rabbit to use the litter box is not very hard. Rabbits are pretty smart so you can train them to do lots of things besides litter training. Litter training will give your rabbit the freedom to be adventurous around the house while not having to pick up after him/her. Chewy our rabbit was relatively easy to train when we first got him. It took about a week or so for him to get use to the litter box and it is basically his home base now. Here are a few tips to help you started in training the rabbit to use the litter box.

Rabbit in Its Litter Box by Amanda Warren

A reason that it was so easy to train Chewy was that he was neutered. A rabbit being neutered or spayed (depending on if it's a male or female) makes a big difference in training. Rabbits like other animals like to mark their territory. During the earlier stages of their life hormones are increased. So having a neutered or spayed rabbit will make training easier and they will be much happier and healthier. Age is also a difference maker in litter training rabbits. Rabbits are easier to train the older they become. So keep that in mind when you're training a baby rabbit to use the litter box. You will have to have more patience with them.

Buy a litter box that is at least a bit bigger than the rabbit. If you buy one that is too small for the rabbit they will either not use the box or try to use the box and spill all their bathroom stuff onto the floor. Once you have found a litter box you need to buy the right litter for your rabbit. Some litters advertised are actually toxic for your rabbit. So you need to be careful on what type of litter you buy. There are some things you need to remember while shopping for litter. Rabbits spend a good amount of time inside the litter box. So make sure that the litter is comfortable for the rabbit. Also rabbits like to eat some of their litter. Make sure that the litter is okay for the rabbit to eat. Last thing is look for how well the litter can absorb liquids. The rabbit's urine has a really strong smell so you want litter that can absorb liquids well. I found a great website that has a list of all the different types of litter. Rabbit.org (link in resource box) shows a chart with all sorts of litter they tried out. I personally put newspapers on the bottom of the box (making sure it is soy-based ink). Then I put paper pulp on top of the newspaper. Non-toxic, easy clean up, and Chewy enjoys it.

Whether you want the rabbit to have full range of the house or a couple of rooms you have to start small. Start with a small room in the house. Put the litter box in the room and observe the rabbit for awhile. If the rabbit does not go into the box just gently pick him/her up and put them in the box or move the box to where they do go to the bathroom. While the rabbit is in the box if he/she did their business inside the box feed him/her a treat showing them they did a good job. This will encourage them to go to the bathroom in the litter box.

The rabbit should be able to go to the bathroom in the box without any help after a couple of weeks. After the rabbit is comfortable you can ease them into other rooms and you can either add more litter boxes or continue training them to use one litter box. Make sure the rabbit has access to the litter box at all times or they will be forced to use another place. Make sure you clean the litter box occasionally. Twice a week is preferable.

Hope these tips help out in training your rabbit to go in the litter box. The rabbit will be much happier with the freedom to roam the house. And you don't have to worry about the rabbit going to the bathroom in random places.

Author Resource: Written by Russell Nguyen
How to train rabbits

Rabbits: The Cat Alternative

Thinking about getting a pet? There’s one furry companion you probably haven’t considered, but should. It’s smart, uses a litter box, can learn to come and walk on a leash, is at home anywhere from a big house with yard to a college dorm room, and it probably won’t make you sneeze. What’s this terrific alternative to a dog, cat and hamster? A rabbit.

Bunny with a Stuffed Friend by Snuggle Pup

Rabbits are funny and charming – and they need you as much as you need them. Like dogs and cats, rabbits are abandoned every day. The United States Humane Society reports that 3 million to 4 million -- yes, million -- rabbits are euthanized in shelters each year. By adopting a bunny, you not only get a terrific companion, you save a life.

What’s so special about bunnies?

• Rabbits are quiet, smart and will play with toys.
• They’re cute. Watching them eat a carrot or just wash their big ears will put a smile on anyone's face.
• Far fewer people have allergies to rabbits than other furry pets, and you can find some breeds that barely shed.
• They’re clean, as animals go. Once they’ve learned to use a litter box, they can roam around your house like any other pet. Plus, their droppings are virtually odor-free and are considered cold compost, meaning you can toss them directly into the garden with great results.
• They are social animals. They’re happiest and healthiest when they have another rabbit to play with. They also like to snuggle with people, so you can plan to spend time holding, petting and playing with them each day.
• There are more than 40 different types of rabbits to choose from. (For more information on them, go to http://www.arba.net/photo.htm).

Who should get a rabbit?
Bunnies are especially good pets for people who live in apartments because they’re quiet, don’t need to be walked and can be litter trained. Most apartments and dormitories allow rabbits because they are considered "caged" pets.

Rabbits -- especially if they have another bunny for company -- are ideal for people who work long hours or take weekend trips. They do fine for a day if you leave plenty of timothy hay, rabbit feed, veggies and water.

They are great starter pets for school-age children (the recommended starting age is 8, but it depends on your child). Just be sure the bunnies aren’t too big for your kids to handle properly. And since rabbits live about 10 years, be sure you’re prepared to care for them, like you would dogs or cats, if your children don’t. The organization where you get your rabbits can help you find the best match.

If you are unsure about a rabbit as a pet, seek out a local rescue organization and become a foster. Most rescues will pay for all supplies and food -- and all pay for veterinary care -- until a permanent home is found. This is a wonderful way to save some bunnies’ lives, decide if you’re a rabbit person and find the perfect one for you.

How do you choose?
Rabbits’ personalities change greatly when they go into adolescence. Some love toys, others like to romp in the tall grass. Getting a rabbit that’s at least 6 months old will help guarantee that the bunny you adopt will act the same way a year from now. If you adopt from a rescue organization, the foster parent can give you information on the bunny's likes, fears and quirks.

If you’ve got a dog, consider up front how it will respond to a new pet in your home. Many dogs learn to get along with rabbits; some befriend them; some see them as prey. If a rabbit will be safe in your home, choose one that’s the right size to interact with your other pets.

Rabbits have a variety of personalities. Like cats, some rabbits will play hard to get; some will sit on your lap and let you pet them as long as you like. Find a bunny that suits your style.

Reputable rabbit rescue organizations will insist that your rabbits be spayed or neutered, for their health and your happiness. Most rescues factor that into the adoption fee.

Hot Cross Buns? by Anna Hull

How do you care for bunnies?
Rabbits need attention, fresh water and food (timothy hay, rabbit chow and vegetables) every day.

Their litter boxes must be changed at least weekly.

Rabbits need a cozy space to call home, but they don’t require much stuff. An extra-large wire dog crate, water bottle, heavy food bowl, litter box with recycled paper litter, a box with shredded paper to dig in, and a few hard infant or cat toys will keep them happy.

To keep your bunnies healthy in a wire-bottom cage, put old carpet scraps on the bottom. Without that protection, they’ll develop painful and debilitating arthritis in their toes. While you’re at it, add a 12- by 12-inch ceramic tile for him to lie on to cool off. You can often get these for free from a local flooring store.

Unlike dogs and cats, rabbits take a few weeks to warm up to new people and surroundings. At first they will hop a few feet out of and then back into their cage, then they’ll gradually start to explore. They’ll relax once they become comfortable with their environment. Although they love to hop around the house, rabbits need a safe place -- a covered box or small covered doggie bed – where they can go when they need time alone.

Bunnies don’t see in color, so they often mistake wires for weeds and chew on them. You can easily bunny-proof your home by tacking wires up out of their reach.

House rabbits have difficulty cooling off above 85 degrees and staying warm below 40 degrees, so you’ll need to use caution when you take them outside in the summer or winter.

My bunny’s home. Now what?
Enjoy! You won’t be able to resist:

• Watching carrot juice drip from your baby bunny’s chin after an especially good carrot.
• The first time bunny grooms you (to show you are his).
• The times when she jumps with glee and spins around in mid-air.
• Watching bun sleep peacefully on his back, legs straight up in the air

To learn more about rabbit habits, adoptions or fostering opportunities, visit:
House Rabbit Society: http://www.rabbit.org/
PetFinder: http://www.petfinder.com
Rabbit Haven's list of state rescue organizations: http://www.rabbithaven.org/BunnyLinks/Shelters_Rescues/StateListings.htm
The Humane Society of the United States: http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/rabbit_horse_and_other_pet_care/how_to_care_for_rabbits.html
Gainesville Rabbit Rescue http://www.gainesvillerabbitrescue.org

About the Author: Dr. Dawn Elise Snipes received her Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling and Addictions and her PhD in Counseling and Education from the University of Florida. She is an ordained Christian minister . Currently she runs an online continuing education site continuing education for rehabilitation counselors, addictions professionals, social workers and engineers and has a part-time private practice.

Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=174060&ca=Pets

What Kind of Care Do Rabbits Need?

There are a number of different things that need to be done in order to make sure that your pet rabbit is as happy as possible. Many of us that own rabbits as pets really enjoy the personality that many of these unusual animals have. If we take care of them properly, they will be healthy and will provide us with years of companionship. Here are several different ways that you can take care of your rabbit to make sure that they are as well-adjusted as possible.

Well-adjusted Rabbit Doing a Little Personal Maintenance by Mark Hillary

One of the most important things for you to consider is the type of housing that you're going to give your pet rabbit. There is a bare minimum of 2' x 2' x 4' that is necessary in order to house your rabbit properly. Most people tend to go a little bit larger than that, even though the rabbit will not necessarily know the difference. The type of material that is used for the rabbit hutch is also something to consider, and you would want to make sure to provide a solid surface in order for them to have a comfortable place to rest. Even though the majority of it can be made out of wire, don't force them to stay on the wire permanently.

Feeding your rabbit properly is also very important, and there are a number of different things for you to consider in this regard. Most of the rabbit chow that is available commercially is able to provide much of what your rabbit is going to need, but you are going to have to supplement their diet with fresh, raw vegetables. It is especially important to provide your rabbit with green, leafy vegetables on a daily basis. Many people also feed their rabbits sprouts and other vegetables as a treat and also because of the energy that it will provide for them. Humans can learn a lot from the way that rabbits eat.

As far as exercise is concerned, this is something that every rabbit is going to need on a daily basis. If you currently are keeping your rabbit outdoors, it is important for you to provide a large area that is enclosed completely in order to avoid escape. Several hours a day is a sufficient amount of exercise, and they will surely enjoy even more if you are able to provide it for them. Indoor rabbits may enjoy the run of the home, but you might end up having to pick up after them quite a bit in the process.

One final thing that you need to think about is the grooming that your rabbit may need. A daily brushing with a flea brush, is essential in order to make sure that your rabbit's coat is as smooth and critter free as possible. It is also a good idea for you to regularly schedule visits with your veterinarian and perhaps even take them for a professional grooming from time to time. All of these things combined can help to keep your rabbit as healthy as possible.

Author Resource: Alison Wood shares her tips for living with all different types of pets over at the aptly named pet blog, Pet Hooligans. To find out more about all your favorite little hooligans and how to increase their health and happiness, take a look at the website today ==> http://www.pethooligans.com/

Article From Pet Article World

What Do Rabbits Eat - An A-Z Guide To What Do Rabbits Eat

If you are part of the amazingly lucky group of people who own rabbits you will know that there is a wealth of information out there on rabbit care and in particular on feeding your rabbit. However, when it comes to feeding, much of it is general e.g.: rabbits can eat fruit.

As bunny lovers, we know that sometimes you need to know about a specific item. So we've put together a list of some of the most common food (and non-food!) items we get asked about.

So, what do rabbits eat? Can they eat apples? Celery? What about carrots, mushrooms or even nuts? Find out below.

Rabbit Eating Italian Style by Niv Singer

Do rabbits eat...

Apples? Yes, in small quantities (see 'Fruit') but not the pips as they are toxic to bunnies.

Bananas? Yes, refer to 'Fruit' for more details.

Basil? Yes, bunnies love basil.

Berries? Yes, refer to 'Fruit' for more details.

Bread? Yes, but only as a super special treat. Some owners may disagree with this but bread can be used as an extra treat for example when toilet training. Just don't let it become a habit as while it is not harmful to buns in small doses it is definitely not on the 'regular food' list.

Broccoli? Yes, but in small amounts. This family of vegetables can produce gases which could upset your bunny's tum.

Bugs? No. Rabbits are vegetarians so don't eat other animals.

Cabbage? Yes, but as with broccoli just in very small amounts.

Carrots? Yes, but in small (1-2 tablespoons) amounts. Carrots are high in natural sugars so are a rabbit 'treat food'. However, the green top part of the carrot can be fed frequently.

Celery? Yes. Just ensure you cut it into 1/2 to 1 inch pieces so that the stringy outside fibres aren't too long as these could cause problems with your bun's digestion.

Cucumber? Yes, but only occasionally and in small amounts.

Flowers? Yes and no depending on the specific flower type. There is a huge variety of flowers and we can't cover all the types here so do some research before ever letting your bun eat flowers as some may be extremely toxic. A few safe ones are: geraniums, marigolds, roses, nasturtiums, sunflowers, daisies and carnations.

Fruit? Yes, rabbits love fruit. It is however a treat food and for adult rabbits only. Limit feeding to 1 tablespoon per 3 pounds of body weight per day. Baby rabbits (under 6 months) should not be given fruits as it may cause diarrhea.

Geraniums? Yes, ask any gardener who also has rabbits! See 'Flowers' for more details.

Grapes? Yes, see 'Fruit' for more details.

Grass? Yes, provided the grass hasn't been sprayed with pesticides or fertilizers. The bulk of a rabbit's diet should be dried grass - see 'Hay' for more details.

Grasshoppers? No. Rabbits are vegetarians so don't eat other animals.

Hay? Absolutely! Fresh hay should always be available and should make up the bulk (70%) of your bun's diet. Hay is high in fibre and low in calories. It is absolutely crucial for a rabbit's digestive system as well as for keeping teeth worn down naturally. Timothy hay (from Timothy grass) is the best kind to feed.

Herbs? Yes, rabbits love fresh herbs (not dried from your store cupboard!) Basil, peppermint, parsley, cilantro/coriander and mint are popular favourites and easy to grow.

Insects? No. Rabbits are vegetarians so don't eat other animals.

Meat? No. Rabbits are vegetarians so don't eat other animals.

Nuts? No. Rabbits may like to eat these but they aren't good for them and shouldn't be part of a rabbit's diet.

Onions? No, never. These are toxic to your bun.

Parsley? Yes, most rabbits love all types of parsley and it can be fed frequently.

Poop? Yes, it's own. Strictly speaking these aren't poops but nutrient-rich droppings called caecotropes which look like little peas.

Pumpkin? Yes, in small amounts as pumpkin is high in starch.

Rhubarb leaves? No, never. These are toxic to your bun.

Spinach? Yes but only as an occasional treat as it is high in oxalates which can affect calcium absorption.

Strawberries? Yes, refer to 'Fruit' for more details.

Sunflowers? Yes, the whole sunflower plant is edible. Chop the leaves, stalks and flower heads into manageable sized pieces. Bunnies especially appreciate the seeds, however these are high in protein so feed sparingly - just 1-2 teaspoons a day for an average sized rabbit.

Sweet corn? No, never. These are toxic to your bun.

Tomatoes? Yes, but only red ones and in small amounts. Never feed the vines or leaves.

Tulips? No, bulb plants are poisonous to rabbits.

Watermelon? Yes, see 'Fruits' for more information.

Worms? No, bunnies are vegetarians.

Zucchini? Yes, but in small amounts as a treat.

About the Author
Written by A. Mitchell
More on what do rabbits eat. Get loads of free information on pet rabbit care at RabbitsForPets.com including a step by step guide to feeding, housing, breeds and much more.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/what-do-rabbits-eat-an-az-guide-to-what-do-rabbits-eat-1933134.html

Caring For Rabbits As Pets

Raising rabbits as pets can be quite a bit of work, the same as with any pet. They are good natured, gentle pets, but somewhat aloof. They do get scared very easily, as is part of their nature. The more time you spend with them the more responsive they are to you, and will respond to their name. They do need some gentle handling in the beginning but become part of the family within weeks. Rabbits can live up to 10 years.

When you first bring your rabbit home try to keep things as quiet as possible. They are skittish and do not like change, so will need to be gently introduced to their environment so they can become accustomed to it and you. Each new noise will be a source of fear. During the first few days after bringing them home, try not to touch them much. Sit on the floor and let them come check you out instead of approaching them. Try to keep it quiet during those first days. Do not introduce to other pets in the home right away. When you do, this needs to be done slowly as well.

A Bundle of Love by Rebecca Leatham

They will need to get used to your touch. To pick them up properly, use one hand to pick them up by the back of their neck. Use your other hand to hold their paws close to their body while holding them close to you. This will keep you from getting scratched by the back paws and they will feel safe. You will also want to train them to be held for grooming. Hold them on their back as you would an infant for a short amount of time each day.

Rabbits can be kept indoors or outdoors. If you keep them outside you will need a fenced in the yard. This is to keep them inside and to keep predators outside. You will need to keep a careful watch as rabbits can dig themselves out under the fence. Keep the fence maintained as predators will smell them and attempt to gain access. When you are not with them, they will need to be kept in a habitat or cage. The size should be five times the size of the rabbit. Put in hay for them to sleep upon.

If your rabbits are kept indoors you may allow them to roam but they will still need a private space just for them. You can buy enclosures specially made for rabbits. A cage is not a home as it just doesn't provide enough space. Electrical cords will need to be taped to the wall. Rabbits will chew them. Socket covers will work to keep them away from those. If you have heat registers in the floor you will need to cover them in whatever room you let your pets roam in. Their feet can become stuck in them and cause them to injure themselves.

Rabbits can be litter trained. It will take just a few weeks for them to get used to it. You will need to watch them carefully at first and each time they appear ready to relieve themselves, take them to the litter box. To keep them from chewing the things you hold as valuable they will need chew toys, lots of them. Your pets will also enjoy pushing a ball around, if it makes noise even better. They are susceptible to fleas, mites and ticks. Colds can be a problem as well. Consult your vet on the best way to handle these.

Water is important. It should be clean and cool. If they do not get enough water it can cause health issues. A sipper bottle is ideal. If it is a bowl, use one made from metal or ceramic. These do not scratch easily. The rabbit's nails would scratch a plastic bowl. Keep that bowl clean; anything in the home can end up in the bowl. They can also turn them over. Wet food or hay can turn to mold. For these reasons the sipper bottle is the better option.

Your rabbits should be fed mainly pellets. Be consistent with the food they are fed as they do not like or adapt to change in diet well. Vegetables are necessary as well. Serve one to two cups of them for every five pounds of your rabbit's weight. Clean them thoroughly to rid them of chemicals and pesticides. There should be three varieties of vegetables each day. Do not introduce more than one new vegetable a day. This will give them time to get used to it and you a chance to see how they respond to it.

Some foods to avoid are corn, potatoes, iceberg lettuce and cauliflower. Carrots should be considered a treat only. Treats will be normally be a small piece of fruit. A treat is good as a training tool. Don't give them frequently because your pet may not want to eat anything else. Consult your pet shop or your vet about what is best for the rabbit you have. These are just the basics to care for rabbits as pets.

About the Author
Written by TW Bell
If you are looking for more information on pet rabbits and cages then be sure to check out TW Bell's site. TW Bell has been involved in small animal business for 20 years. Stop by to see our multi level cages to see if they work for your home.

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