The life expectancy of a domestic rabbit is 8-12 years. They are more active at night, dawn and dusk, and enjoy burrowing, digging, grooming and playing. It is important to be thoroughly prepared before bringing any new rabbit into your home/garden.
Outdoor bunnies require a safe, secure, warm and dry shelter that is a minimum of 3 meters long and 2 meters wide- though the larger the better, especially with multiple rabbits. Outdoor access is a must, and should be large enough for them to display their natural behaviours (jumping, ‘binkying’, playing and exploring), but secure that they cannot burrow out, escape, or chew anything they shouldn’t.
Rabbits are prey animals. Care should be taken with placing their housing in quiet areas of the garden or home, away from loud, scary and sudden noises. Once they seem more comfortable, you can start to patiently approach, pet, and hand feed them until they become used to you.
It is recommended that you register with a vet as soon as possible. Rabbits, just like cats and dogs, need regular check-ups, annual vaccinations and neutering. Vaccination helps prevent against diseases such as Myxomatosis and Viral Haemorrhagic Disease. Neutering can prevent inappropriate mating and behaviour, and help reduce the risk of certain types of diseases. Rabbits often hide illnesses very well, so regular check-ups are important.
We have a Pet Health Plan specifically for rabbits. If you would like to register and/or enrol your pet onto this plan, please call the practice on 01423 900449 or email info@boroughbridgevets.com