Because bunnies are oh-so-cute, they are often given as gifts at Easter. Sadly, shelter workers report they are the most returned pet after Easter.
Those cute and cuddly baby bunnies sexually mature at 4 months and adolescent behavior follows: biting, spraying, and not wanting to be held.
Rabbits need to be spayed or neutered and as they get older, want to be held and carried less. They are most active at dawn and dusk, so prefer to sleep during the day. This shortens the window of companionship time together.
Bunnies are susceptible to various illnesses, bacterial infections (signs: runny eyes, nose, increased sneezing, wheezing), and even bladder stones (straining, bloody urine, crying while in litter box). The last is the most serious and requires immediate surgery.
A rabbit needs to be kept indoors. The cage bottom needs to be covered with thick newspaper, sea grass mats, or cushy straw to prevent hock sores.
The House Rabbit Society offers beyond-fuzzy advice for prospective bunny owners:
- A rabbit as an Easter gift is not a good idea – chocolate bunnies are best!
- Never buy a rabbit (adopt instead!)
- Do your homework first to learn about rabbits as pets.
- When you’re ready for an 8–12-year commitment, adopt from a local rescue/shelter.
Rabbits are wonderful companions, but they’re not for everyone. If you want to learn more about caring for a rabbit, visit their website: https://rabbit.org. Fostering a rabbit first is a great way to experience life with a rabbit before making a permanent commitment.
How many rabbits have you encountered and cared for in your pet sitting profession? Reply below or send an email to share your “bunny” experiences @ info@associationofpetprofessionals.com or https://associationofpetprofessionals.com/contact-us/
Hoppy Easter and hugs from your Pet Pro Team @ AoPP!
We believe that rabbits are intelligent and social beings. House Rabbit Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is the nation’s largest rabbit welfare group. Their aim is to improve the lives of domestic rabbits through education, awareness, and rescue.