Reasons To Adopt A Pet Rabbit
May 10, 2019
Rabbits are the third most popular pet to be given up to shelters. So if you’re seriously thinking of adding a bunny to your family, check your local adoption options first.
Why are so many rabbits in shelters?
Because they are so darn cute, people can’t resist taking them home. But the reality is, rabbits can be very high maintenance. In fact, many rabbit owners find they spend more time taking care of their rabbits’ needs than their dogs and cats.
Many baby bunnies are gifted to young children. They’re soft, they're cute, and they’re cuddly...but not always. Some rabbits loathe being picked up and cuddled. Rabbits feel safer on the ground, where they belong. Rabbits are quite fragile and their bones can break easily, which is probably another reason why they instinctively dislike being picked up and carried.
In addition, most rabbits outlive the wonder years of childhood. Once the novelty wears off and junior has left for college, these poor rabbits inevitably find themselves cooped up in a animal shelter looking for a forever home.
Many people find themselves allergic to their new house pet. Chances are if you’re allergic to cats or dogs, you’ll experience allergies to rabbits also.
One 2017 study in the UK found the top three reasons for relinquishment of rabbits to rehoming shelters included:
- Too many rabbits
- Unplanned litters
- Housing problems
If you think your rabbit might be lonely and you end up with more than one rabbit, remember these are, well, rabbits! They breed like rabbits! So neutering is recommended.
If you’re thinking a pet rabbit is the right choice for you, bear in mind the level of responsibility involved:
- Rabbits need more than a cage to keep them healthy and happy.
- Rabbits need daily exercise several times a day in a safe area.
- Rabbits’ cages need cleaning and refreshing every day.
- Rabbits need veterinary attention and vaccinations, just like dogs and cats.
- Vets specializing in rabbit health can be more expensive.
- On average rabbits live up to 7-10 years.
Rabbits make wonderful pets, if they’re treated with the kind of love and attention they need. Having enough space like a back garden for them run around in a secure pen is also an important factor if they are to live a long and healthy life.
If you’re still not sure if a pet rabbit is the right choice for you, read up as much as you can about house rabbits before making a decision. Or consider fostering a surrendered rabbit from shelters like the Humane Society to see if you're a match made in heaven.
For more information on rabbits, check out the House Rabbit Society.