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    Rabbit 101:
    The Rabbit Resource
     

Bunny lovers tend to be very kind, compassionate people with huge soft spots for our animals. After all, we share our hearts and homes with our furry friends (and only ask for snuggles in return!)  

If you live in the United Kingdom, it turns out you're not alone in your love for those adorable, cuddly creatures. In fact, there are over one million rabbit owners in the UK. Pretty cool, right?

For all you rabbit lovers out there, we've compiled all the FAQ's asked by dedicated paw parents like you. From the fruits and veggies you should be feeding your bun to exactly why a rabbit thumps... and everything in between! Consider this your one stop shop for all questions rabbit.

Let's hop to it!

How long do dwarf rabbits live?

Dwarf rabbits are the smallest of rabbits and are said to live longer than their bigger bunny counterparts. Their sweet, cuddly and pleasant countenance towards everyone, makes them an all-time favourite. With an adequate amount of care, these small pets can live up to 8 to 10 years. Depending on the type or breed, the lifespan varies. Also, to prolong a healthy life, take good care of your little furry friend. You don’t even have to utter a word-we know you would love to have a lifetime with your dwarf bunny.

It’s time to dive deeper into the goodies. Let’s talk dwarf bunnies!

If you have never seen or heard of dwarf bunnies, you are missing out. They are super sweet and short rabbits that will win your heart in a jiffy. It is important to note that not all small bunnies are dwarfs. In fact, the presence of the dwarf gene is what classifies a dwarf rabbit as a dwarf. Dwarf bunnies have a distinct look that makes them recognizable. They usually have a round head, a compact body and shorter ears than the usual bunny.

Various Breeds and Lifespan

Type:

Lifespan:

Britannia Petite Rabbit

6 to 10 years

Columbia Basin Pygmy Rabbit

3 to 5 years

Dwarf Hotot Rabbit

7 to 10 years

Dwarf Lop

9 to 10 years

Dwarf Lionhead Rabbit  

8 to 10 years

Jersey Wooly Rabbit

7 to 10+ years

Miniature Cashmere Lop Rabbit

9 to 10 years

Mini English Angora Rabbit

6 to 10 years

Netherland Dwarf Rabbit

10 to 12 years

The Netherland Dwarf Bunny

 

This breed of bunnies originated in the Netherlands. They may be blue, white, opal and lilac, among other colours with beautiful ruby-looking eyes. Can you see why they are referred to as the gem of the fancy? They are the tiniest of the dwarf breed with round faces, super-short necks and furs that assume the original position after brushing. It does not weigh more than 2.5 pounds.

They are not the most ideal pets for young children as they hate being squeezed and may scratch, bite or act very wild towards the person holding them. A child may panic after its reaction and drop it. This can result in injuries that can break a bone.

If you insist on giving your child a Netherland Dwarf bunny, ensure that you teach them how to hold and care for it.

Netherland bunnies may have problems with their teeth due to small jaw size and genetic factors. These problems may include infection, molar overgrowth, and pain. They may also have challenges while chewing.

To reduce these problems, you must ensure that your bunny gets regular checks at the vet, be on the lookout for overgrown teeth, give it a chew toys and give them enough hay to eat. Hays help to wear down the teeth. If you need hay for your bunny, feel free to visit our online shop. We have Alfalfa hay, Oat hay, Orchard hay, Timothy hay, among others.

What do dwarf bunnies need to live a long Life? 

Dwarf Rabbits are not difficult to please. Give them food, shelter and security, and, you will be besties. Like other types of rabbits, they thrive well on a healthy diet, clean water, and a safe place to rest with adequate playtime. Grooming and proper healthcare also play a vital role in preserving the lifespan of your furry friend.

Food

Dwarf bunnies need more hay than other rabbit breeds as they are often plagued with tooth problems. A diet rich in fibre such as hay is, therefore, highly recommended with Timothy hay being the food of choice. Along with hay, they can be given pellets, vegetables and fruits in moderation.

Shelter & Security

Your bunny will need a nest box, a litter box, comfy bedding and a cage to enhance comfort and keep them safe. Keep them away from children during playtime as they are very fragile.

Rest

Dwarf bunnies are little busybodies. They get very active throughout the day and work their leg muscles continuously and need time to rejuvenate for another day.

Playtime

 

Give your dwarf rabbit playtime to keep it stress-free and happy. Don’t be afraid to give them a break from their cage. This keeps them happy and reduces boredom. Feel free to heighten playtime with chew toys. We have several options in our rabbit shop.

Grooming

While your dwarf bunny is a DIY bunny, when it comes to grooming, it still needs a little help every now and then to prevent its furs from becoming matted. If your bunny gets messy, use a damp cloth to clean it. Never bathe your furry friend in water; we do not want it stressing out. We want to keep it calm and happy as much as possible.

Healthcare

Ensure your small pet gets frequent visits to the vet. Dwarf rabbits are prone to respiratory problems because of their tiny nose and may have occasional snuffles which mimic cold symptoms in humans.

 

Dwarf Rabbit: The Take Home

Dwarf rabbits are not difficult to please. Give them food, shelter and security, and, you will be besties. Like other types of rabbits, they thrive well on a healthy diet, clean water, and a safe place to rest with adequate playtime. Grooming and proper healthcare also play a vital role in preserving the lifespan of your furry friend.

To keep your bunny around for a long time, you must meet their play, healthcare, rest and grooming needs.


What vegetables can rabbits eat?

 

Rabbits are big fans of veggies. It is so cute how they hide in a little corner to have undisturbed moments with their favourite vegetables. Bunnies can eat several vegetables, most of which can be grown in your garden or purchased from food stores. Your bunny has a different digestive system. Thus, thought must be placed on the types of foods they receive, even vegetables. Some vegetables that experts highly recommend for humans may be bad for our small pets. But don’t worry, you can still find something in your food basket for them.

About 15-20% of your bunny's diet should include vegetables.


Safe veggies for your rabbit

Several research materials indicate that the best vegetables for rabbits are herbs, lettuce, and leafy greens. We bet you are wondering- where are the carrots? Truth be told, they are not the best food for your bunnies as they can interfere with digestion. But we will talk some more about carrots later. Here's a complete list of approved vegetables for your furry friend.

Green Leafy Vegetables

(High In Oxalic Acid)

Different Types

Beet greens

Mustard greens

Parsley

Radish tops

Sprouts

Swiss chard

Spinach

Green Leafy Vegetables

(Low in Oxalic Acid)

Different Types

Arugula

Basil

Cucumber leaves

Carrot tops

Endive

Frisee Lettuce

Kale

Mache

Red or green lettuce

Romaine lettuce

Spring greens

Turnip greens

Raspberry leaves

Radicchio

Watercress

Wheatgrass

Non-Leafy Vegetables

Different Types

Bell peppers

Broccoli (leaves and stems)

Brussel sprouts

Broccolini

Cabbage

Carrots

Celery


Toxic veggies for your rabbit

Not all veggies are good for your little bunny. There are certain foods that you should avoid giving your furry friend as they contain toxic substances that can affect their digestive health, and neurological function, among others. Foods such as avocados, chard, garlic, corn, raw potatoes, raw onions, rhubarb, mushrooms, broad beans, kidney beans and iceberg lettuce must be eliminated from your rabbits’ diet. If you have fed any of the previously mentioned toxic foods to your rabbit, speak with your vet to determine the right action to take.

 

USEFUL TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND WHILE FEEDING YOUR RABBIT:

1.) Carefully wash all vegetables before feeding them to your bunny.

2.) Inspect veggies for bugs, insects and worms.

3.) Be aware that certain foods can affect your rabbit’s urine colour.

4.) Avoid giving your pet broccoli as it is a gas-inducing food.

5.) Never give your rabbit leaves of plants that are grown indoors as they can be poisonous.

6.) Moderation is key. Slowly introduce vegetables to your furry friends’ diet.

7.) Always be on the lookout for adverse effects after veggie consumption.

 


More on The subject...

Introducing Veggies To Your Rabbits Diet

Introducing your furry friend to veggies can be a fun and exciting adventure. Start introducing vegetables one at a time. For example, you may have a farm with several veggies that you want to feed your bunny. However, you should feed your bunny one vegetable for a few days and see how its body responds. When your bunny turns 3 months old, you can start stimulating their appetite with some veggies.

What's The Big Deal With Carrots? 

Carrots anyone? Uhm we mean bunnies.

Truth be told, culture has associated carrots as the primary food for bunnies but that is far from the truth. If that was the case, we would have malnourished bunnies that are overweight with several health problems. While carrots are good for your rabbit, feeding too much to your furry friend can result in obesity as they are high in sugars and can lead to other health problems. Moderation is best!

The Veggie Takeaway

Bunnies are veggies enthusiasts. They play a critical role in the overall health and well-being of rabbits. Leafy greens, cruciferous veggies, carrots, bell peppers,squash, and herbs are all excellent choices for your bunny. Remember to pay close attention to food portions and avoid giving your furry friend toxic vegetables. Giving your small pet a healthy diet with the right amount of vegetables will keep them healthy and thriving. If you need more ultra-informative content to help you take care of your domestic rabbit, we have a mega stash of blog content bundles to help you on your small pet care journey.

And while you are at it and feeding your bunnies veggies, remember to include some in your diet too. We want you to stay healthy.

Have a veggie-filled day with your furry friend.


What fruits can rabbits eat?

Now that we have covered the types of veggies bunnies love, it’s time to shed some light on the fruits. Can you make wild guesses as to which fruits are safe for your small pet to munch on? Anywho...if you thought of fruits such as grapes, pineapple and mangoes...then you are certainly on track!

Rabbits usually enjoy eating fruits. If you leave feeding time all up to them, they may keep eating fruits all year round. However, fruits are high in sugar and should be fed in moderation.

How much fruit should rabbits eat? 

Your bunny can have up to two tablespoons of fruits daily. Some rabbit experts say once or twice per day in minute amounts. Ensure that you remove the seeds before giving fruits to your bunny.

Recommended fruit

 

Apple Slices (not the pips - they are poisonous!)

Apricot

Banana (high in potassium)

Blackberries (and leaves – excellent astringent properties)

Blueberries

Cherries (not the pits and plant - they contain cyanide and are therefore poisonous!)

Grapes

Kiwi Fruit

Mango

Melon

Nectarines

Papaya

Peaches

Pears

Peach

Pineapple

Plums

Raspberries (and leaves – excellent astringent properties)

Strawberries (and leaves)

Tomatoes (NOT the leaves)

Pineapple

Melon

Raspberries

Strawberries

 

 


How long do rabbits live?

Welcome to the beautiful world of bunnies! Here, your little furry friends are top priority. Whether you are a newbie to taking care of rabbits or a seasoned pro, we are here to heighten your care experience and help you make every moment count. Without any delays, let’s dive deep into our topic of discussion-how long do rabbits live. But before we explore this topic, have you ever wondered about how long you will get to enjoy your bunny’s company? Well, they can live up to 12 years. Yep! You read that right.

Here’s what you should know about those adorable beings and their lifespan.

What is a rabbit's average lifespan?

The average life span for domestic rabbits ranges from 8 to 12 years, and some even make it to 15 years. In other words, you can have them around for a decade or even longer! Amazing right?! It all begins with supplying them with nutritious foods, and creating a warm, safe and comfy living space for them.

Wild rabbits on the other hand don’t usually live as long because they are exposed to unfavourable living conditions and are often deprived of the rabbit foods they need to stay healthy.

Wouldn’t you agree? Rabbits are the world’s most precious little beings. Just one look at them, and we are all starry-eyed- they are truly worth having.

A history fact

Are you ready to take a quick trip to the world of bunnies’ lifespan? Hold tight, and get ready to be blow away by this historical and beautiful story about Flopsy, the only rabbit that has every lived beyond rabbits’ predicted lifespan.

Can you envision your furry friend hopping around the house from one point to the next and perfuming your home and life with love, laughter, and fun for a whopping 18 years and 10.75 months? This is something every rabbit owner would love. Flopsy lived that long! And yes, you read that right! She was rescued from the wild in Australia in 1964 and lived several years after. Flopsy made history! She captured the hearts of those whom she graced paths with and today, her name is etched in the guinness world records and she will always be remembered.

Not only does her story highlights longevity, it is also a constant reminder to us that proper nutrition and care is crucial for the health and happiness of our bunnies.
Any bunny owners reading this historical fact and has any future plans to outdo Flopsy? It is very much possible with the right environment and care.


What your bunny rabbit needs

In a nutshell to keep rabbits healthy and to prolong their lifespan, they require:

Rest and Comfort

Provide your bunny with a comfortable place to rest. It needs safe and comfortable spaces to recharge its batteries after hours of hopping. Get your bunny a cosy, warm, and soft bed to take naps, and you will have a happy bunny.

Undisturbed Healthy Meals

Allow your rabbit to have undisturbed meals that are of high nutritional value. To keep them bubbly, ensure that they get a balanced diet that includes hay, vegetables, and pellets and always keep them hydrated. Like humans, they like variety- mix it up every now and then.

Playtime, Play & Social Interaction

Bunnies love their playtime! Any opportunity you get to connect and play with your rabbit, maximize on it. This will assist with strengthening your bond with it, and you will be able to know when your furry friend is not having the best of days.

Exercise

Get those muscles flexing. Your bunny needs exercise to lower the risk of becoming obese and to improve its digestive function. Exercise is also beneficial for your rabbit’s overall health and well-being. Get your groove on with your furry friend!

Shelter and Protection from the Weather

Regardless of the weather conditions, your small pet needs a safe shelter and should be protected from the rain, sun, wind and other elements that can increase its chance of being unhealthy.


What if you could heighten your pet rabbit’s nutritional status and comfort in one go? Never thought this was possible? With Small Pet Select, it is very much possible!

Small Pet Select never settles for less, so why should your bunny?

Keep your bunny bubbly all day long and increase their lifespan by taking their nutrition and comfort level up a notch. Hop on over to our small pets store and check out our beddings for domestic bunnies and our hay.


What Do Rabbits Eat?

Rabbits are super cute beings that deserves the best of everything- including food. For most of the day, you can find them nibbling on foods they enjoy. But what do they eat? You can find them munching away on hay, pellets and veggies. They also need clean water while they eat.

Is there a bunny you’re eyeing? Or you are just crossing your “T” s and dotting the “I” s to make sure you are on top of your feeding game? Whatever the reason or your level of knowledge on the subject, you may find this content helpful.

Let's explore bunnies’ typical diet and the foods they can eat.

It is important to note that nutrition plays a critical role in the health and sustenance of domestic bunnies. Failure to provide the nutrients your small pet needs can lead to nutritional deficiencies that can cause or trigger other problems. We definitely don’t want that for our furry friends.

 
Rabbits are herbivores which means that they consume only plant-related foods. Majority of the bunnies’ diet consists of clean water and hay. Whilst they need nutrients to grow, hay is their primary source of nutrients. It significantly improves digestive health as they nibble continuously.

If you introduce your fuzzy friend to certain foods too quickly or give them foods that are not appropriate for their digestive system, they can end up being very sick or even die.

To avoid these undesirable situations, here are some foods for your bunnies that are recommended by experts within and outside of the UK.

Fresh Clean Water

There is no going around it, water is the element that gives life. It is needed for our bunnies to stay hydrated and to keep their entire bodies functioning effectively. Not only should our domestic rabbits get water, but it must be clean water to prevent the transfer of water borne-diseases. To prevent their feeding area from being too messy, it's best to give them water using a heavy water bowl to prevent it from toppling over. This will also help you to keep track of how much water your small pet consumes.

Be sure to clean the bowl or water container daily to prevent bacterial or fungal growth which can harm rabbits.

Hay

Hey, did you know that hay forms a huge portion of bunnies’ diet? It certainly does! Hay such as 2nd Cut Timothy Hay and Oat are excellent sources of nutrients for our rabbits. It is accessible on the market and can be found in almost every small pet store. However, not all suppliers know how to safely prepare domestic rabbits’ hay. It requires adequate processing to prevent the growth of moulds and to prevent contamination.

What are the best hays?
The best rabbit hays are those that are free of contaminants and additives.

Never feed your bunnies grass that has been mowed, it can harm your pet.

Pellets

Did somebody say rabbit pellets? Reign in those pellets! These are a type of food that rabbits love. Even though your bunny may be head over heels for the pellets or nuggets, only give it a small amount. However, if your bunny is under 7 to 8 months, they can consume alfalfa pallets as they are rich in calcium and protein that is needed for healthy growth. They must start the weaning process by 7 months and gradually be introduced to an adult diet.

Rabbits should receive 25mgs of pellets per kg of their body’s weight. This is basically an egg cup full per body weight.

Do not overfeed pellets to your rabbits because it can cause them to become obese and they may have watery stools due to their limited fibre content.

Muesli-sty foods are usually regarded as a form of rabbit pellets; however, it is not recommended for rabbits. It can cause your bunny to have intestinal problems and may damage its teeth. If you were unaware that this type of food is bad for your domestic rabbit, it is not too late to make a switch to healthy rabbit foods. While you are making that switch, we will be guiding you on your journey with content that makes the transition process easier. Be sure to consult with a vet if you want to switch to healthy rabbit foods.

Veggies

Veggies/vegetables are excellent nutritional snacks for your rabbit. From about 12 weeks old, you can start to slowly introduce your little bunny to veggies. When you are introducing veggies for young domestic rabbits, be on the lookout for diarrhoea. If you find that your bunny does not respond to a particular vegetable well, discontinue giving them immediately.


Your rabbit can eat as many vegetables as they wish as long as the foods don’t contain too many carbohydrates and they are able to tolerate them. Vegetables such as carrots and potatoes are high in carbohydrates and should not be given to rabbits too frequently as they can cause weight gain.

Here are some vegetables recommended by the VCA Animal Hospital.

romaine lettuce

beet greens

mustard greens

basil

bok choy/pak choi

carrot tops

cilantro

broccoli

greens watercress

kohlrabi


The Take Away

Rabbits’ diet should consist of hay, fresh vegetables, and specially formulated rabbit pellets. To keep them healthy, these foods must be given in the correct proportion to meet their nutritional needs. Feeding your bunny the right foods will keep them happy and in good shape.

Voila! There you have it, what do rabbits eat in a nutshell. You are all set to kickstart your rabbit feeding-journey the right way.

If you desire high-quality and animal cruelty-free hay and pellets for your small pet bunny, we got you covered! Small Pet Select offers the best rabbit and other small pet foods in the UK. Please check out our rabbit products, we are sure you will find something for your bunny. Don’t miss these essentials.

Also, if you are loving our care resources, feel free to check out our binge-worthy blogs too. They are loaded with content that will help you on your rabbit care journey.

Happy feeding!


Where do rabbits live?

Rabbits are located all over the globe in several habitats. You can understand this as they are such sweet pets to have, but where do they live? You can find them in homes, deserts, wetlands, forests and even urban areas. Let’s dig deeper to discover and explore where these adorable creatures call home.

Bunnies can be found around the world in almost every country except the Antarctica region, where it is super cold. You can find some bunnies in several homes which are referred to as domestic pets. Some pets live in the wild and may be used as food for other animals.

The majority of bunnies are found in North America, Asia and Europe.


Wild Bunnies

You can find wild bunnies in holes under the ground called barrows. They use these holes to protect themselves and their offspring from predators and to enhance their comfort. The barrows are designed with tunnels to fit their bodies and to allow easy escape from their attackers. Rabbits have incredible abilities to adapt to their environment. Their favourite places are bushes, tall grasses and shrubs. Can you guess why this is the case?

Bunnies that live in the wild are very wild. They resort to the previously mentioned habitats to outsmart predators and protect themselves.

Forest & Woodlands

Can you picture endless fields of lush green grass and trees stretching as far as the eye can see? They are the ideal spaces for bunnies! Rabbits tend to find comfortable places in hollow logs or under bushes. These logs usually have ample space for them to go about their business with ease. We bet you are wondering what they eat. They can be found munching on figs, barks and leaves.

Wetlands

Wetlands provide a host of plants for rabbits to munch on, and it has plants that offer protection from natural elements. You may see rabbits eating grasses, sedges, and other aquatic plants.

Desert

The desert may be a big surprise to you. You may never have thought that bunnies live in the desert. Desert Cottontail bunnies are huge fans of the dessert. You can find them in Western United States and Northern and Central Mexico. They mainly live in borrows that serve as protection from the sun. They are usually up and about at nights enjoying the bunny nightlife. Now, what foods can rabbits find in the desert? Several foods! They eat plants such as cacti, sagebrush, and mesquite. Talk about a unique palate!

Urban Areas

Yes! You read that right. You can find bunnies in the heart of the city. There is an abundance of food and shelter in urban areas, and rabbits adapt to the fast pace environment very quickly. You may see them hanging out in parks, gardens or under decks. They know the streets.


Domestic Bunnies

These bunnies have a home and are domesticated. They are normally fed with fruits, veggies and hay. Most of these bunnies have a place to stay and rest. They often live in a cage, or they live in the yard inside a hutch, or even both. Their cages must be at least five times their size to reduce injury and promote comfort.

Rabbit owners must ensure that their bunnies’ environment is safe.


Rabbits & Winter

Here’s a question that you might be asking. What happens to bunnies during winter? Bunnies are smart animals. During winter, outdoor rabbits normally stay underground to keep themselves safe and warm. They mainly eat twigs, barks and buds during this time.


Why do rabbits thump?

Have you ever sat at home minding your business, and suddenly your bunny starts kicking up a storm? It can be a very frightening experience, especially if your furry friend is doing it for the first time. Don’t be too worried about it. Your bunny is not telling you off! Though they do not speak, they do have a unique way of communicating their feelings to each other and to humans. Therefore, we must learn what their reactions and gestures mean. Let’s talk thumping! Bunnies may thump for several reasons, which may include warning you or another bunny about danger, they feel lonely, and they are sick, among several other reasons.

What is thumping?

Thumping is a natural reaction by rabbits that involves drumming or stomping their hind feet to make a noise- not all rabbits thump. Those that do thump use it as a means of communicating various messages. In other words, they are saying, “something is going on here.” Thumping can last for a very long time and often ends when a bunny feels safe. The sound can be heard from far distances and often result in a strong vibration that sends messages to bunnies who are near or underground. Learning why your bunny thumps can help you to better understand their behaviour and needs.

Why rabbits thump?

Let’s explore some of the reasons why your bunny may be thumping- some will shock you.

Fear

Your furry friend may sense danger and may become fearful, and starts to thump. It may see an animal or someone it is not familiar with and start with thumping.

Pain

If your bunny is sick or experiencing pain, it can start to thump. When rabbits are experiencing pain, they often want to be alone. When they are sick, and thump, you can look for signs that they are unwell. They may lose their appetite and have a runny nose, grunt, and limp, among other symptoms.

Boredom

Like humans, bunnies get bored. So, they use thumping to remind their owners that it’s time for something different. Ensure that you provide them with enough playtime to reduce boredom.

Excitement

Yep! Rabbits display excitement too. Though not very common, some bunnies may thump during playtime to express how much they enjoy the experience.

Stress

Your bunny may thump because it feels stressed. If a predator is near, your rabbit may experience a rush to protect itself and its family.

Loneliness

Did you know that rabbits have their way of expressing emotions? When they feel lonely, they might start thumping their feet to communicate their need for company. So, if you want to keep your furry friend happy and healthy, make sure that you give it plenty of opportunities for socialization and playtime. Who knows, maybe you'll even make some bunny friends along the way!

Aggression or irritation

Someone or something may irritate your bunny and drives it into the action of thumping. It may also become irritated during fights with other rabbits.

The Take Home

Rabbits have various reasons for thumping, and it's essential to determine the cause by observing their behaviour and surroundings. By taking the time to assess the situation, rabbit owners can address any potential issues and ensure their bunnies’ well-being. This proactive approach can promote a better relationship between owners and their furry friends while providing a safe and comfortable environment for them.


How to keep rabbits cool in summer?

Summer is often a fun season for many of us. However, it’s not a great time for our furry friends. They are super sensitive to heat, and they are unable to regulate their body temperatures. Bunnies cannot sweat; this makes it even more difficult for them to keep cool in summer. They depend solely on human actions, panting, and their ears to keep them cool. To keep your bunny cool during summer, you can move them to cooler temperatures indoors, provide a spacious room for stretching, and getting your bunny a cooling mat, among other interventions.

Keep them indoors

Picture this: you are a bunny, and it is summertime. The sun is beating down, and you're feeling hot and bothered. What's a bunny to do? Well, the first thing you should do is find some shade, or even better, find your way indoors!


You can bring your furry friend inside to get some cool air from the air conditioner. If you don’t have an indoor hatch, you can keep them in a room in the house that is safe and adequately ventilated. You don't want your bunny to be stuck in a stuffy hutch with no air circulating – that's no fun! You can even speed up the cooling process by turning on the fan.

Keep them hydrated

Rabbits need clean water to stay hydrated and to prevent dehydration during summer. You can add ice cubes to their drinking water to keep them cool.

Limit exercise

Exercise increases body temperature. During summer, you may want to go easy on the exercise with your bunny as it increases their temperature. It’s best to have your rabbit exercise during the evening when the time is cooler. We know bunnies love to be on their toes. So, you can do less intense exercises such as play hide and seek with them.

Ensure a spacious room for stretching

The larger the room, the more and the better air will circulate. Also, giving your bunny a spacious room for stretching will enhance the cooling process.

Get a water mister

You can hop on over to a farm store and get a water mister. Place it at a point where your bunny can access it. The downside is, you can only use it outdoors.

Offer fresh foods from the fridge

You can store some of your rabbit’s green leafy vegetables in the fridge- and then serve it to your furry friend when it’s meal time.

Get a self-cooling mat

This mat is placed in the hutch on the floor. It helps to cool down your bunny.

Move the hutch out of the sun

If your rabbit’s hatch is in direct contact with the sun, it’s time to relocate to a cooler spot where the sun is not a bother to your bunny.

Bunnies and Heat Stroke

Rabbits can be victims of heat stroke. The extra fuzzy ones and those that are very young or very old are more likely to experience heat stroke. Therefore, close attention should be paid to temperature, humidity and ventilation.

Bunnies get very warm during the summer due to the high temperatures in their environment. It is important that you monitor your bunny to prevent heat stroke and make them as comfortable as possible during summer and beyond.

In case you are clueless as to what heat stroke is, here is a short and easy definition from the Centers for Disease Control:

“Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature: the body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down.”

Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke

As a rabbit owner, knowing the signs and symptoms of heat stroke can help to save your bunny’s life. Below are some signs and symptoms that indicate that a bunny is experiencing heat stroke.

Panting, or fast, shallow breathing

Drooling and salivating

Wetness around the nose

Coma

Cardiac arrhythmia

Cardiopulmonary arrest

Weakness

Seizures

Body temperature above (104 O F)

Red and warm ears

Disorientation

Muscle tremors

High heart rate

Head tossing backwards

What to do if your bunny has a heat stroke?

Heat stroke is a scary thing to any rabbit owner. But the key is to remain calm and do your best to save your bunny. Here are a few things you can do should your bunny ever have a heat stroke.


Contact the vet immediately: The vet has the expertise in rabbit care and will tell you exactly what to do.

Try to cool down your bunny:

  • Place a damped towel over the cage.
  • Offer your rabbit sips of water if it is able to drink.
  • Dampen the furs and ears with cool water. Never soak your bunny ears in water; you can increase the risk of shock, which can be fatal.
  • Move the enclosure to a cooler spot. If your bunny is outside, you can move it indoors.

The Take Home

To keep bunnies calm and happy during summer, owners should prioritize keeping them cool. This means creating an environment that minimizes the risk of heat stroke. Providing ample shade, ensuring proper ventilation, and offering plenty of cool water are all important measures. Additionally, bunny owners should monitor their pet's behaviour and symptoms of heat stress to prevent more serious issues from arising.


What should rabbits not eat?

We have spilt the tea regarding what rabbits should eat and we have touched the surface, and shared what they can't eat. Now, it's time to identify those foods and explain why they are bad for your furry friend. Bunnies should not eat foods such as avocados, raw onions, garlic, tomato leaves, nuts, and beans, among others.

Avocados

These are delicious snacks for us, but they can harm your bunny. They contain a compound called persin that can cause behavioural problems, breathing issues and even heart failure. If adequate medical attention is not given to your rabbit, it can be fatal.

Raw Onions & Garlic

These foods contain an oxidant called n-propyl disulphide that often affixes itself to red blood cells. A bunny’s body will try to get rid of the toxins, but while doing so, red blood cells are destroyed. This action can cause haemolytic anaemia, and if not treated promptly, it can result in death. If your bunny is a huge fan of flavourful foods, try giving it herbs like basil or parsley instead.

Tomato Leaves

Tomatoes are great for rabbits; however, the leaves contain toxic substances that can harm your bunny.

Seeds from Fruits or Veggies

Make every effort to remove all seeds from your rabbit’s meals. Foods such as cherries and apples contain cyanide and should not be fed to your bunny.

Nuts

Nuts are tasty snacks but they can be dangerous to bunnies. They contain a high amount of fat and can result in digestive and dental issues for your bunny if they are not chewed well.

Beans

These can cause serious health problems in your bunny. This is primarily due to their high protein and carbohydrate content which may result in watery stool, gas and bloating. This also can be fatal.

Chocolate

Chocolate anyone? But not the bunnies. Though a sweet treat for us, it's a bad idea to give your furry friend.

It contains a compound called theobromine which is toxic to rabbits and can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and seizures. So, if you are a chocoholic, keep your sweet treats away from your bunny.

Iceberg Lettuce

Lettuce is usually safe for rabbit consumption; however, iceberg lettuce is an exception. Lettuce that falls in that category contains lactucarium, which can cause diarrhoea and digestive problems in rabbits.

Milk & Meat

You may be a newbie who just got a furry friend, and you want it to have the delights that you experience with food. However, bunnies have fragile systems, and they are strictly herbivores and should never be given meat or milk. Your small pet’s digestive system cannot have all that excitement. It was only designed for plant-based foods. Introducing these foods can cause stomach upset and disrupt their bodies’ normal flora.


How long are rabbits pregnant?

You have probably heard the term, breeding like rabbits. Well, it actually implies that female rabbits reproduce at a very rapid rate. It literally takes minutes for them to become pregnant. Bunnies’ gestation periods are pretty short. They are usually pregnant for about a month (30 to 33 days) and undergo spontaneous and lengthy ovulation periods. So, if you are up for having a fluffle, read more!

If you are looking into having a nation of bunnies, you can have bunnies popping out every single month. We bet you have several questions regarding your furry friend’s pregnancy, so let’s explore them together, shall we?

When can rabbits breed?

Your rabbit can breed as early as 4 months. However, the ideal age is 6 months. It’s best to wait until they are 6 months to prevent pregnancy complications. Pretty interesting right? It certainly is! Unlike other animals, they star the show when it comes to reproducing. They are the record breakers. They are usually pregnant for about a month (30 to 33 days) and undergo spontaneous and lengthy ovulation periods.

If you want to prevent your female bunny from breeding, be sure to separate them from the males or consider neutering them.

Breeding rabbits should be done in a controlled environment, with careful monitoring of the female rabbits’ behaviour and health. It is important to ensure that the rabbits are not under any stress during the breeding process, as this can impact the success of the pregnancy.

What are the signs that my bunny is expecting?

When your rabbit becomes pregnant, it is not always easy to tell. There are several instances in which rabbits are pregnant and the owner does not know until a few days before the delivery date when they start preparing a place to give birth. Here are some things to look out for when your bunny is pregnant.

If your rabbit is displaying any of these signs, take her to the vet to ensure that she is doing well.

Aggressive behaviour

Your sweet and welcoming bunny may start to avoid bonding and petting moments and may growl when you approach it.

Nest building

This entails gathering hays and straws to build a nest.

Fur pulling

Your bunny may pull out its hairs to build its nests for its baby bunnies when preparing for their arrival.

False Pregnancy

Don’t be alarmed if your bunny triggers a false alarm where pregnancy is concerned. Your bunny may display the previously mentioned signs but is not pregnant. The best way to be sure is to consult with the vet.

Rabbit Pregnancy and Care

If you are curious about your furry friend’s pregnancy journey and about what it will be like, it is pretty much an adventure from start to finish! Once your rabbit is confirmed to be pregnant, the real excitement begins.

Ensure that your pregnant bunny’s nutritional needs are met and that there is a cosy and quiet space for your bunny to be while she prepares for her big day.

Imagine a relaxing spa experience. Create an oasis of comfort where she has access to plenty of food, clean water, a warm, comfy and clean nesting box, and all the fluffy bedding materials her heart desires.

A rabbit’s pregnancy journey may be a tough one. Keep a close watch on your mom-to-be bunny for signs of infections or illness and ensure they visit the vet.

As the big day approaches, you will grow more and more excited.

When those adorable little bunnies arrive, it will be totally worth it. Please take great care of your furry friend during her pregnancy, and be prepared for those star eyes moments after seeing their cute little faces.

The Take Away

During the gestation period, bunnies need high level of care which entails adequate comfort, close monitoring for illnesses and a very nutritious diet. Enjoy those little furry buds when they arrive. Before you know it, they will be up and about.


How to Pick Up Rabbits

After your furry friend gives birth, the next thing to consider is handling the little bunnies with care. Bunny owners must know the proper techniques for picking up rabbits. Let’s face it, picking up a bunny who has just graced the earth can be a bit intimidating, especially if you are a newbie to rabbit care. Don’t worry though. We gotcha! We have some tips to share with you and before you know it, you will be a pro at picking up bunnies.

You can pick up your bunny using a gentle and safe approach. When you are trying to hold your bunny, put one hand under its chest and your other hand underneath its bottom. At no point in time should you hold it by the ears or by the scruff of the neck. If you fail to hold them properly, they may experience pain or injury.

When do you need to hold your bunny?

There are several instances in which your bunny requires to be held. You may need to hold it during grooming sessions, when protecting it from hazards, when administering medicines, at bonding times, and when you are placing it into carriers. If you discover that your bunny rabbit does not enjoy being picked up, try to minimize the number of times you do this.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to pick up your furry friend safely.
When picking up your rabbit, proper techniques must be implemented to avoid pain and spinal injury. Therefore, its entire body must be supported when lifting it. Use a gentle and safe approach:

  1. Put one hand under its chest. This will minimize struggling with your furry friend.
  2. Place your other hand underneath its bottom: This action helps to support the rabbit’s body weight and further prevents injury.
  3. Lift your bunny and hold them close to you. This helps to promote comfort and security.

How are you feeling after reading this bit of information? We bet that your fears have been minimized. We at Small Pet Select provide our customers and potential customers with valuable information to guide them in their small pet endeavours. You will love it here!


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