728x90
my iParenting
From Our Sponsors
e-newsletters
Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters

new terms of use
new privacy policy
award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Home › Articles › Pets › The Bunny Hop?

The Bunny Hop?

What to Consider Before Bringing Home a Rabbit

By Alex Powell

Pages:  1  2  3  4  

(Lantern Books, 2003), and a national educator with the House Rabbit Society. "I would really advise families that are having a hard time holding it together in terms of time management to not go for a rabbit, because they're not really easy keepers." Although rabbits keep themselves impeccably clean, their litter boxes, food bowls and shedding hair can make for a housekeeping nightmare. "You should see our vacuum bag," says Jill Mills. "It's full of rabbit hair."

  • Rabbits are a serious commitment. A healthy rabbit can live for around seven to 10 years, and the things needed to keep bunny healthy – veterinary care, food, toys and household equipment – aren't cheap. In addition, rabbits have emotional needs that must be met, says Bob Mills. "They become depressed and worried if you don't give them copious amounts of attention on a daily basis," he says. "[You have to] be willing to devote some time every morning and evening to play with and cuddle your rabbit."
  • Rabbits are not long-eared dogs or cats. Rabbits are prey animals, explains Dr. Jeffery Jenkins of the Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital in San Diego, Calif. "They are from the bottom of the food chain, so they don't do well being handled as roughly as a dog or cat," Dr. Jenkins says. This is also why rabbits tend to be sensitive to loud noises and disruptions in their routines. Jill Mills agrees. "While bunnies are just as sweet and loving as a cat or a dog, they are a different type of animal altogether, one that we aren't as familiar with unless we make an effort to be," she says.
  • Not all families are suitable for all rabbits. Consider the maturity level and disposition of your children, Dr. Jenkins says. "If you have a really rough child, and you know he or she is not going to be gentle with the rabbit, it's probably not a good mix," he says. He notes that rabbits do best around children who are gentle, mature for their age and can take direction well.

    • Pages:  1  2  3  4  


    Want to see more?