If you have a pet, it most likely barks or meows. But that means you're overlooking one of the greatest and cutest pets there is. Yep, I'm talking about us rabbits! Fluffy fur, big ears, and twitchy noses – it's hard to find an animal with better looks out there.
And while we're experts in looking cute, there's more than meets the eye. Not only are we social and affectionate toward humans, but we also leave a minimal pawprint.
Still, there are a few things you should consider if you're planning on getting a pet rabbit like me. We can be quite the troublemakers, so you have to be prepared before bringing one of us into your home.
1. Pet rabbits have similar behaviors to wild rabbits
When thinking about adding a little ball of love to your household, you should remember that we often behave similarly to our wild predecessors. Despite our soft looks, we are a prey species. Whenever we feel frightened, we'll freeze or look for a place to hide. So, make sure to create a shelter (we'll love a cute indoor hutch) where we can retreat.
2. Rabbits require plenty of space
We might have small bodies, but we take up a lot of room! As you'll quickly find out, we need plenty of space to sprawl out and hop around. So make sure that our enclosure is at least three times our full length.
Likewise, to help us stay healthy and energized, you should give us at least three hours of exercise per day (and no, eating carrots isn't exercise, as much as we'd wish). One way to do this is to think of us as your vegan cat. We can wander around your home while you do your daily chores!
3. You'll need to keep their minds busy, too!
There's nothing we love more than attention (well, maybe just apples…). We're smart and social, so it's important to keep us entertained, even when you're not at home.
So, what can you do? Make sure there are plenty of safe chew toys, puzzle feeders, or hay towers to keep us busy while you're gone.
4. Their incredibly loving (but only after awhile)
There's nothing better than bunny hugs. Or bunny smooches. But to experience the amazing love we can give, you should be prepared to wait a little while, as it takes time for us to trust humans. Since we are prey animals, it is our instinct to be wary of the unknown, including humans.
Thankfully, there are ways you can speed up the process. Some treats go a long way!
5. Bunnies live a long life
Most small furry animals live for 2-4 years, so it may be a surprise that pet rabbits have a life expectancy of around 8-12 years. When considering getting a new fluffy best friend, you should know it's as big of a commitment as getting a cat or a dog.
Final Thoughts
While we come in different shapes and sizes and may have different needs, we will be a wonderful addition to any family. Not only are we excellent snugglers, but we're also great listeners (if you don't believe us, just look at our ears!).
Curious to learn more about owning a cute bunny like me? Then follow our blog here.
Stay tuned for more hopping good tales from yours truly, Chester!
Paws and kisses,
Chester the Bunny 🐰
