Rabbits are delightful,lovable animals with specific care needs to live long and healthy lives as companion animals. If you're considering having a rabbit join your family it's wise to first research bunny needs and and care. There are many good books and web sites dedicated to rabbit care and here are some helpful hints to get you started.

• Housing should be roomy and comfortable. Your bunny should be able to lay , stretch and move about freely inside caging. If wire caging is used, the floor needs to be lined with cardboard or other safe material so their feet are not harmed by standing on wire. A cardboard box makes a great bunny hut for hiding, napping and general privacy.
  
• Litter boxes should also be roomy enough for your rabbit to get into comfortably. Organic litters are best, such as those made from paper, wood pulp or citrus. Avoid dusty kitty litter and allergy provoking wood shavings.
  
• Bunnies kept in a cage need supervised time out in the house for exercise and play. Their play area should be carefully bunny-proofed for things that can do harm, such as electrical wires and outlets, toxic compounds such as cleaners and plants poisonous to rabbits such as aloe.
  
• Fresh water should always be provided. Water can be served in a heavy crock or water bottle and make sure to clean the container daily.
  
• Rabbits should always have Timothy grass hay provided. This specific type of hay has the fiber needed to keep their digestive systems healthy. You should also provide dark leafy green vegetables such as dandelion, kale, parsley, collard, cilantro, arrugla and romaine. Pelleted food specifically formulated for rabbits may also be included in their diet. Treats of veggies like carrots and fruits like blueberries, apples, strawberries and melon may be offered sparingly.
  
• Bunnies have fairly sensitive digestive systems, so avoid foods disruptive to their digestion like beans, cabbage, iceberg lettuce, corn, peas, potatoes, and others. Never feed your rabbit chocolate or other candy or spoiled foods.
  
• Chewing is a must for rabbits, both for health and entertainment, so do provide safe materials for chewing. Chewable cardboard boxes (no staples or tape please) and tubes are great. as well as untreated wood pieces. Willow baskets, etc are great! Just make sure the wood is untreated.
  
• Handle your bunny with care. Be sure to support their body properly when picking them up. Use two hands, one under their front and the other under their back, held securely close to your body.
  
• Be sure to bring your bunny in to our specialists at the Exotic Bird Hospital for an annual health check up.

Please visit the links below for more detailed rabbit care information.

The House Rabbit Society