Rabbit Starter Care Guide
A casual introduction to rabbit care, including health risks, housing, food and everyday behaviour.
Use this guide to notice and organize information. Contact a qualified veterinarian for medical concerns or urgent change.
About the Rabbit
Rabbits are social, intelligent prey animals, not low-maintenance cage pets. They need room to run, stretch, dig, hide and choose when to interact.
Most rabbits are happiest with a compatible rabbit companion and careful bonding. They can live for many years, so their space and veterinary care need long-term planning.
Health risks to know about
Major concerns include gut stasis, dental disease, heatstroke, respiratory illness, sore feet, parasites and reproductive disease. Rabbits must keep eating and passing droppings regularly.
A rabbit that stops eating or producing normal droppings needs urgent veterinary advice. Do not wait overnight to see if it improves.
Housing and daily setup
Use a large, secure home base attached to a much bigger exercise area. Provide non-slip flooring, hiding places, tunnels, digging opportunities and protection from heat and predators.
A small hutch or cage is not a complete home. Rabbit-proof wires, toxic plants and narrow spaces during supervised indoor exercise.
Food and water
The diet should centre on unlimited grass hay, with suitable leafy greens and a measured amount of quality rabbit pellets. Constant chewing supports both digestion and dental wear.
Keep fresh water available in a bowl, monitor eating and droppings daily, and introduce food changes gradually.
Behaviour, company and enrichment
Running, jumping, digging, chewing and resting beside a bonded companion are normal. Provide legal outlets instead of punishing rabbit behaviour.
Many rabbits dislike being picked up. Interact at floor level and support the chest and hindquarters fully when lifting is necessary.
When to call an exotics vet
Get prompt help for breathing changes, collapse, seizures, major bleeding, a swollen abdomen, severe pain, inability to urinate or pass stool, or a sudden loss of balance or movement.
Small mammals often hide illness and can decline quickly. A clear change in appetite, droppings, breathing, movement or normal social behaviour deserves early veterinary advice.
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