Rabbits Make Great Pets
Rabbits are among the hottest small pets. They are recognized for their soft appearance and calm temperament. Rabbits are able to be taught to utilize a shallow litter box and can be a loving family pet. Almost all rabbits have shorter coats, avoiding the expense of a groomer. Virtually all varieties get used to being handled when raised beginning at age nine to ten weeks. The one main exception is a rabbit raised to be bred. A rabbit for breeding is usually acquired as adults. Rabbit health issues include digestive, skin and dental disorders.
Getting a Rabbit
When purchasing a rabbit, first check the animals overall condition. Begin with the ears and look for any sign scabs. Next examine the eyes and make sure that they are bright and clear. The nose needs to be clear. Breathing must not appear to be labored. Look at the teeth for positioning along with size. The coat ought to be neat and stain free.
Common Types of Rabbits
Bunnies can be found in many styles and sizes. Popular small rabbits include the Dutch, English, and Netherland Dwarf. Larger breeds include the Flemish Giant, New Zealand and Belgian hare. These types of rabbits are probably outside the size that can be simply handled by small children.
Cages and Hutches
These pets are best kept in the home. They can be housed in a large cage when no one is home as long as they can exercise in a larger area for about an hour. Many owners designate one safe room for the rabbit. Rabbits like to nibble. If allowed to wander an owner has to cover power cords, furniture and keep the rabbit away from carpets.
Out of doors rabbits must be kept in an area away from any predators. Any rabbit enclosure should be kept out of direct sun. Hutches can be store acquired or homemade. The hutch needs to be placed in an area where the rabbit will feel safe. If you permit the rabbit to eat grass, move the rabbit run round the yard so that the grass can recover. Building is cheaper than buying a hutch.
Rabbit Diet
A rabbits diet must be carefully managed so as to avoid gut rot. Rabbits don't have the digestive enzymes needed to break down plant cell walls. To help digestion, the digestive tract turns food into pellets that are excreted from the body. They then eat and absorb nutrients from the pellets. Rabbits can eat commercial food or a mix of fresh vegetables, fruit and seeds. Diets should contain a combination of fresh and dry food.
Caring for a rabbit is a sraightforward proposition. By following these suggestions a pet rabbit will bring years of joy.
Cathy Doggins is the writer of articles and books on small pet care. When not contributing to http://www.cool-small-pets.com she can be found at home caring for her lizards, hamsters, rabbits and three dogs. Cathy is a popular speaker on animal rights and is always willing to help volunteer for any animal related cause.
