Why Rabbits Make Fantastic Pets

First off, most people think rabbits are just outdoor pets, living in hutches and stroked maybe once or twice a day with playtime in runs when the weathers nice. This could not be further from the truth. Rabbits make fantastic pets, and they can live in the home and can be taught to use a litter box just like a kitten would be taught, although some bunny-proofing will need doing to avoid any much-loved items (or phone chargers) getting chewed to bits! They are intelligent and can grow to be very affectionate. They just need a little time to get to know their owner.

Personally, I am a huge lover of animals, big or small, fluffy or hairless. They are all amazing creatures in their own right. Bunnies, however, often get overlooked as pets with everyone thinking they are okay to give a child because they’re bigger than a hamster but not quite as needy as a cat or dog. This is not a good idea, as rabbits can live for 12 years (even longer if you’re lucky) and just like a cat or dog, every single one has their own unique personality and needs that have to be met in order for a long and happy life.

Too often, rabbits are abandoned or spend the majority of their lives in a small outdoor living space through all weathers, but once you take some time to bond with the adorable ball of fluff you’ll realise there is so much more to these animals than just adorable hops and big, long ears. Rabbits have "mad moments." When they get over-excited or happy, they sprint at full speed and hop up and down frantically. This is called binkying and it’s the cutest thing on the planet! Once they are done, they just flop down on their side as if they are passing out from happiness; it’s the sweetest thing to watch.

They can be hugely adaptive. Rabbits can be moved from space to space and rub their chin on things to claim ownership, which includes rubbing their chin on you! I have a rabbit (Billy) with my partner. About three times a year, we visit his family in the Isle of Man and each time Billy travels with us. From train and car to boat, he is no bother as a travel companion, though he does strike some conversations in the pet lounge when he’s surrounded by some very curious pups! They don’t need constant attention like a puppy and while some rabbits like a cuddle and fuss, most like attention on their own terms (mine likes to nibble your feet if you’re not giving him a fuss when he fancies one). Because they have fairly independent personalities it means you don’t have to be at home 24/7 with them. Just let them know you care about them and give them attention when they need it. They don’t need huge amounts of food which makes them relatively cheap to keep once you have the right set-up. An egg cup size of pellets a day, some fresh fruit and veggies and lots of hay is all they require for a happy life.

Basically, I’m saying that rabbits need more recognition as pets. They are loving and sweet and although a little cheeky at times, they are adorable to play with and simply be with. They are fluffy, lovable, have incredibly cute mannerisms and can get up to all the mischief a cat can! Once you bond with them and they bond with you, it’s a friendship for life. If you really feel up to the challenge, you can bond two rabbits together and they can even fall in love (but do be prepared. Bonding takes a lot of time and even more patience). Here’s a shout out to rabbits and the amazing pets they can be with a little time, a little care, and lots of carrots!