Thinking about getting a rabbit? You’re not alone—rabbits are becoming one of the most popular small pets for families, singles, and apartment dwellers alike. But here’s the thing: rabbit care are not low-maintenance animals.
If you’re new to bunny care, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from setting up their living space to what they should eat, how to groom them, and how to keep them healthy and happy.
Are Rabbits Good Pets for Beginners?
Yes, rabbits can be wonderful pets for beginners—but only if you’re committed. They are intelligent, social, and can form strong bonds with their humans. However, they also need daily care, space to move, and regular health checks.
Rabbits are not cage animals. They need free-roam time, interaction, and mental stimulation. If you’re ready to treat your bunny like part of the family, you’ll do just fine.
What You Need Before Bringing a Rabbit Home
Before adopting a rabbit, make sure you’re fully prepared. Here’s a quick checklist for beginner bunny owners.
1. Safe and Spacious Housing
Your rabbit’s cage or pen should be large enough for them to hop around, stretch out, and stand on their hind legs. Avoid small wire cages. Instead, go for:
- An exercise pen (X-pen)
- A large indoor hutch
- A bunny-proofed room for free-roaming
Minimum recommended size: 4×2 feet for a single rabbit, with several hours of daily exercise outside the enclosure.
2. Proper Bedding and Flooring
Use soft, absorbent materials like:
- Paper-based bedding (e.g., Carefresh)
- Fleece blankets
- Straw or hay in some areas
Avoid cedar or pine shavings, which can harm your rabbit’s liver.
3. Litter Box Setup
Yes, rabbits can be litter trained! Use a cat litter box and line it with paper-based litter. Place it in the corner they tend to use for peeing. Put hay on top of the litter to encourage use—they love to eat and poop at the same time.
4. Food and Water Essentials
- Heavy ceramic bowls (not easy to tip)
- Water bottle or bowl (cleaned daily)
- Hay rack to keep hay fresh and clean
5. Toys and Enrichment
Bored bunnies chew things they shouldn’t. Offer:
- Chew toys (wood, cardboard, hay-based)
- Dig boxes
- Tunnels
- Foraging toys
What Do Rabbits Eat?
A rabbit’s diet is key to their health. Here’s what you need to know:
Hay: The Main Course
Fresh hay should make up 80–90% of your rabbit’s diet. It helps with digestion and keeps teeth healthy. Popular types include:
- Timothy hay
- Orchard grass
- Meadow hay
Make sure it’s always available, clean, and dry.
Fresh Vegetables
Daily greens are a must. Feed a mix of:
- Romaine lettuce
- Cilantro
- Basil
- Parsley
- Kale (in moderation)
Avoid iceberg lettuce—it has little nutritional value.
Pellets (Use Sparingly)
Choose high-fiber, plain pellets (no seeds, dried fruit, or colored bits). Feed about ¼ cup per 5 pounds of body weight.
Treats and Foods to Avoid
Give fruit sparingly—no more than 1–2 tablespoons per day. Safe treats include banana, apple (no seeds), or berries.
Avoid:
- Bread
- Cereal
- Chocolate
- Onions
- Garlic
- Avocado
- Processed human food
How to Handle and Bond With Your Rabbit
Rabbits are prey animals—they don’t like being picked up unless they trust you. Here’s how to build a bond:
- Sit quietly and let your bunny come to you
- Offer treats by hand
- Gently pet their forehead and cheeks (they love it!)
- Avoid lifting unless necessary
Never pick them up by the ears or scruff.
Cleaning and Grooming Needs
Rabbits groom themselves often but still need your help.
- Brush weekly (daily during shedding)
- Trim nails monthly
- Clean litter box every 1–2 days
- Check ears, eyes, and teeth regularly
Long-haired breeds like Angoras need daily grooming.
Rabbit Health: Signs of Illness to Watch For
Rabbits hide illness well. Look for:
- Not eating or pooping
- Lethargy
- Runny nose or eyes
- Drooling
- Tilted head
- Sudden aggression
If you notice any of these, contact an exotics vet immediately. A rabbit not eating for 12 hours is a medical emergency.
Common Mistakes New Rabbit Owners Make
Avoid these beginner errors:
- Keeping rabbits in small cages all day
- Feeding too many pellets or treats
- Not bunny-proofing the house (wires, baseboards, furniture)
- Bathing rabbits (they clean themselves and can go into shock from water)
- Not getting a vet who specializes in rabbits
Final Tips for First-Time Bunny Parents
- Rabbits need at least 4 hours of exercise outside the enclosure daily
- Keep their environment quiet and stress-free
- Spay/neuter your rabbit to prevent health and behavior problems
- Spend time with them daily to build trust
- Be patient—every bunny has a different personality
FAQs: Rabbit Care for Beginners
Q1: Are rabbits easy to take care of?
Rabbits are not as easy as many think. They require daily feeding, cleaning, attention, and vet care. But with the right setup and dedication, they are amazing pets.
Q2: Can I keep a rabbit in my apartment?
Yes, rabbits do well in apartments, especially as indoor pets. Just make sure you give them enough space to roam and bunny-proof your home.
Q3: Do rabbits need to go to the vet?
Absolutely. Rabbits need regular checkups with an exotic animal vet, especially after neutering/spaying. Annual visits are recommended.
Q4: How often do I clean my rabbit’s litter box?
Every 1–2 days is ideal to prevent odors and health issues. Deep clean the box weekly.
Q5: Can rabbits be left alone all day?
You can leave a rabbit alone during work hours, but they should not be left alone for more than 24 hours. Ensure they have enough food, water, and a clean environment.