How to Care for a Pet rabbit /bunny

Rabbits are unique pets. They have specific needs in order to live a long, happy and healthy life. Here is a basic overview on how to care for a pet rabbit:

Step 1: Set Up Safe Indoor Housing
Step 2: Bunny Proof Your House
Step 3: Provide Fresh Hay
Step 4: Provide Fresh Greens, Fiber-rich Pellets, and Fresh Water
Step 5: Set Up a Litter Box
Step 6: Provide Enrichment
Step 7: Groom Your Rabbit
Step 8: Bring Your Rabbit to a vet

Step 9: Understand Rabbits’ Unique Language and Behavior
Pet rabbits are different from cats and dogs. It’s essential to understand how rabbits think so you and your rabbit can live a happy life together.

Learn about their unique language at Binkies, Nose Bonks and Flops: Rabbit Behavior Explained and demystify unfavorable rabbit behavior by reading Help! My Rabbit Hates Me!. By catering to your rabbit’s natural inclinations, you can build a trusting, loving relationship.

Rabbit Supply Checklist

Indoor housing
Get a puppy pen 36 inches or higher so your rabbit can’t jump out.

Wire covers
Plastic sleeves can be neatly connected to your wall.
Flex tubing is another great option for covering and/or bundling wires.

Furniture / baseboard protection
Large split flex tubing can fit over wooden table or chair legs.
Furring strips, 2x4s or other wood panels can be used to cover baseboards.

Puppy pens / baby gates
Puppy pens can help block off areas or confine your rabbit to a safe area of a room.
Metal baby gates can be used to block off rooms.
Storage cube panels can be attached to the bottoms of baby gates with zip ties if the slats are too far apart.

Litter box
A medium-sized cat litter box (no top) or a shallow storage container will do.

Rabbit-safe litter
Opt for a recycled newspaper pellet litter such as Yesterday’s News (unscented).

Food / water bowls
Ceramic dishes are heavy enough so your rabbit can’t tip them over.

Hay feeder
This helps keep hay fresh and available to your rabbit at all times.