Mr. Easter Bunny: Is it Time for a Pet Rabbit?

How cute, absolutely adorable, snuggly and sweet -- words commonly used to describe a bunny.
Well, they are cute, absolutely adorable, snuggly and sweet, but does that mean you should rush out and buy or adopt one for Easter Sunday?

Ohhhh don't let emotion take over on this one! Your toddler could be begging you for one for Easter, your pre-teen could be telling you she is ready for the "pet responsibility" but the BIG question one must ask, "Is your family ready for a rabbit?"

I have had bunnies for over 25 years. I have had indoor and outdoor rabbits. Nacey, my outdoor rabbit (except in the winter). Ashley, a baby bunny left on the front steps of a pet store near my apartment when I lived in Providence. And lastly, Jake.. aka " Jakey." Jakey came from a 4H club in Boxford. Apparently, Mom and Dad were left a little too long in the cage together and an unexpected litter came along. Jakey was my boy ..my devilish little boy ..yes I admit it, he was also a bit of a Momma's boy too! He had me good.

But unlike cats, rabbits are very different. This seems to be the biggest misconception. People think if they have had cats they can care for a pet bunny. No, they are two very different animals and their lifestyles have different requirements.

Consider these 10 facts before you bring a rabbit into your home:

1.Rabbits come in various sizes, breeds. Do your research some rabbits are tiny, some are large, some have long hair and some have short hair. They also all have their own personalities. As with other pets, a rabbit's personality isgreatly influenced by how they are socialized with humans and other animals.
2. Rabbits require a time commitment: Quite the little attention getters..they love to be social. You will need to spend quality one on one time with your rabbit. Let's not forget that cage, it will need to be cleaned daily. Rabbits can be litter box trained too.
3. Rabbit Food: Rabbits will need hay and fresh pellets. They should also be fed fresh vegetables daily. Check with your local pet food store before you bring home your rabbit to make sure they carry rabbit pellets.
4. They can be pricy little critters: There will be regular annual costs as well as food, bedding, veterinary care, grooming supplies, flea prevention items and an unending supply of chew toys.

You will need to have:

• Cage/crate
• Nest Box - where the rabbit can sleep
• Bedding - chips, paper, straw or hay
• Exercise pen or an outdoor play area and you will need rabbit-proof your house
• Litter box
• Cleaning supplies such as litter scooper, disinfectant, Vinegar and water works great to clean a litter box
• Food dishes and water bottles - I'm personally not a fan of water bottles and always used water bowls for my rabbits.
• Travel carrier (for traveling and trips to the
  veterinarian)
• Chew toys - tons ..of chew toys because it helps file their never ending growing teeth
• Flea preventives - if an outdoor rabbit. Speak to your vet about which product to use
• Food- Fresh pellets, hay, fresh vegetables

5. Rabbits can be difficult to handle: Some rabbits can be a little stubborn and may not like to be picked up. If a rabbit isn't handled correctly, he may become afraid and kick, bite, or scratch. This is one of the reasons rabbits may not be the best pet for small children, who like to hug or cuddle their pet. However if socialized correctly he may become the biggest lap rabbit and snuggle bug! Mine were always by my side and cuddled up with me.
6. Rabbits can be destructive: Rabbits are natural chewers, and they do not know the difference between chewing on appropriate items or inappropriate ones such as electrical cords, furniture, and books. You will need to "rabbit-proof" whatever areas in your house your rabbit is allowed access to. Chewing toys are very important and can help to burn off some of that rabbit energy.
7. House rabbits are not a good "first pet" for children: Because rabbits are guarded by nature they take a little longer to warm up to some people. A rabbit will need to be cared for by an adult who can provide the proper diet and living conditions. Rabbits can make excellent pets for older or quieter children, singles or seniors.
8. House rabbits require exercise: They should not be kept isolated in a small cage, but be allowed to move about in an exercise run, playpen or rabbit-proofed room.
9. Spay or neuter: Indoor rabbits will need to be spayed or neutered. This will decrease the risk of territorial marking and increase chances of litter training success.
10. Rabbits have certain health concerns you should be aware of: Rabbits will need regular veterinary health exams. Overgrown teeth, digestive problems, and respiratory diseases can be common, more so in rabbits who are not housed correctly or are given an inappropriate diet. When choosing a vet please ask in advance if they handle exotics. Rabbits need to be seen by a vet that has experience with exotic animals.

**Most importantly please decide if a rabbit is the right fit for your home. Animal shelters receive an over whelming amount of rabbits and bunnies after Easter because families didn't realize how much work these cuties really required.

If you are ready to bring a bunny into your home, enjoy all the unconditional love a rabbit will bring to you and your family. PLEASE consider ADOPTION.

Tracey is the owner of Wiggles & Jiggles Pet Care and may be contacted at 978-697-6571 on facebook at  www.facebook.com/wigglesjigglespetcare

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