Rabbits are adorable, intelligent, and social animals that make wonderful pets—but they need more care than many people realize. From diet and housing to health and bonding, a rabbit requires the right environment to thrive. This rabbit care guide covers everything you need to know to keep your bunny safe, healthy, and happy. And before you even set up housing, make sure to check the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator so your rabbit has enough space to live comfortably.
Quick Rabbit Care Tips
- Diet: 80% hay, 15% leafy greens, 5% pellets and treats.
- Housing: At least 8 sq. ft. per rabbit plus daily playtime.
- Companionship: Rabbits are social and thrive with another rabbit or lots of human interaction.
- Exercise: At least 3–4 hours of free roam or playpen time daily.
- Lifespan: Domestic rabbits live 8–12 years with proper care.
Rabbit Diet & Feeding
Rabbits have sensitive digestive systems, so diet is the most important part of rabbit care.
- Hay: Unlimited timothy, orchard grass, or meadow hay. This prevents dental problems and supports digestion.
- Pellets: Choose high-quality timothy-based pellets. Avoid mixes with seeds, nuts, or dried fruit.
- Greens: Romaine lettuce, kale, parsley, and cilantro are great. Avoid iceberg lettuce.
- Treats: Fruits like apple slices or strawberries only in moderation.
- Water: Fresh water available at all times in a bottle or heavy ceramic bowl.
Rabbit Housing & Environment
A common mistake is keeping rabbits in cages that are too small. Rabbits need space to stretch, hop, and play. The cage or hutch should be just one part of their living area.
- Size: At least 8 sq. ft. of enclosure per rabbit.
- Location: Indoors is safest. Outdoor hutches must be predator-proof and weather-resistant.
- Flooring: Solid floors are best to prevent sore hocks. Use grass mats or fleece liners.
- Litter Training: Rabbits can be litter trained. Use paper-based litter, never clay or clumping cat litter.
💡 Not sure how big your rabbit’s enclosure should be? Use the Cage Size Calculator to get the right size for your bunny.
Exercise & Enrichment
Rabbits are active, playful animals. Without enough stimulation, they can become bored and destructive.
- Playtime: At least 3 hours of free-roam time daily.
- Toys: Chew toys, cardboard tunnels, and untreated wood blocks.
- Hideouts: Boxes, tunnels, and hay bungalows for security.
- Social Interaction: Rabbits bond strongly with companions—human or rabbit.
Rabbit Health & Grooming
Rabbits are prey animals, so they often hide signs of illness. Regular checks are essential.
- Teeth: Rabbit teeth grow continuously. Hay and chew toys prevent overgrowth.
- Nails: Trim nails monthly to prevent overgrowth.
- Grooming: Regular brushing, especially for long-haired breeds like Angoras.
- Veterinary Care: Yearly check-ups with a rabbit-savvy vet.
- Illness Watch: Loss of appetite, small droppings, lethargy, or nasal discharge are warning signs.
Best Products for Rabbit Care
Aivituvin XL Indoor/Outdoor Hutch
Why it’s great: Spacious, durable, and safe housing option for rabbits.
- Pros: Predator-proof, easy to clean, large size.
- Cons: Requires space and assembly.
Oxbow Western Timothy Hay
Why it’s great: High-fiber hay, essential for digestion and dental health.
- Pros: Fresh, high-quality, vet-recommended.
- Cons: Pricier than bulk hay options.
Oxbow Essentials Adult Rabbit Pellets
Why it’s great: Balanced, timothy-based nutrition for adult rabbits.
- Pros: Premium quality, fortified, easy to digest.
- Cons: More expensive than generic pellets.
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Why it’s great: Perfect for grooming both short-haired and long-haired rabbits.
- Pros: Easy to use, prevents mats, gentle on fur.
- Cons: Requires regular use.
Lixit Wide-Mouth Water Bottle
Why it’s great: Ensures rabbits have clean, fresh water daily.
- Pros: Durable, large capacity, easy to mount.
- Cons: Needs secure placement to avoid leaks.
Niteangel Grass Mat
Why it’s great: Natural chew mat that doubles as flooring and bedding.
- Pros: Safe, edible, budget-friendly.
- Cons: Needs regular replacement.
Comparison Table
| Product | Main Benefit | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aivituvin Hutch | Spacious housing | Indoor/outdoor rabbits | See Price |
| Oxbow Timothy Hay | Digestive & dental health | All rabbits | See Price |
| Oxbow Pellets | Balanced diet | Adult rabbits | See Price |
| Hertzko Slicker Brush | Grooming | All breeds | See Price |
| Lixit Water Bottle | Hydration | Indoor & outdoor rabbits | See Price |
| Niteangel Grass Mat | Comfort & enrichment | Chewers, flooring | See Price |
FAQ
Are rabbits easy to take care of?
Rabbits require daily care, socialization, and a proper diet. They’re not low-maintenance pets, but with the right setup, they can be very rewarding.
Can rabbits live outdoors?
Yes, but only in predator-proof, weather-resistant hutches. Indoor housing is safer and usually better for pet rabbits.
How much space does a rabbit need?
At least 8 sq. ft. of enclosure space plus playtime. Use the Cage Size Calculator to find the right size.
Do rabbits need companions?
Yes, rabbits are social animals and thrive with another rabbit. If kept alone, they need daily human interaction.
What’s the most important part of rabbit care?
A hay-based diet, spacious housing, and social interaction are the three pillars of good rabbit care.
Conclusion
Caring for a rabbit means more than just providing food and water. These intelligent, social animals need space, companionship, proper nutrition, and regular health monitoring. With the right care, rabbits can live long, happy lives as beloved companions.
👉 Before bringing home a rabbit, plan properly. Use the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator to make sure your new pet has the housing space it needs for a healthy, happy life.
Final Tip: A well-cared-for rabbit is affectionate, playful, and full of personality—an unforgettable addition to your family.