Thinking about bringing home a bunny? You’re not alone. Rabbits are the third most popular pet in the U.S., right after dogs and cats. But many new owners ask the important question: “Are rabbits good pets?” The answer depends on your lifestyle, expectations, and willingness to provide proper care. This guide covers the pros and cons of owning rabbits, what makes them great companions, and the challenges you should be prepared for. And before setting up your home for a new bunny, check the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator to make sure you provide enough living space.
Quick Answer
Yes, rabbits can be wonderful pets. They are affectionate, playful, and can be litter trained. But they’re also sensitive, require daily care, and need more space than most people expect. Rabbits aren’t low-maintenance pets, but for the right person or family, they make rewarding companions.
Why Rabbits Make Good Pets
- Affectionate: Many rabbits enjoy being petted and can bond closely with their owners.
- Quiet: Rabbits are generally quiet pets, making them great for apartments.
- Litter Trainable: With patience, most rabbits can be trained to use a litter box.
- Playful: Rabbits love toys, tunnels, and exploring new spaces.
- Social: They can bond with humans and other rabbits, showing distinct personalities.
Challenges of Keeping Rabbits as Pets
- Chewing: Rabbits chew everything—wires, furniture, and baseboards must be protected.
- Space Needs: Rabbits cannot live in small cages. They need at least 8 sq. ft. of enclosure space plus daily playtime. Use the Cage Size Calculator to avoid overcrowding.
- Veterinary Care: Rabbits need rabbit-savvy vets, which can be harder to find.
- Time Commitment: They need daily exercise, feeding, and cleaning.
- Delicate: Rabbits don’t tolerate rough handling, making them less ideal for very young children.
Rabbit Personality & Behavior
Rabbits are intelligent and expressive. They communicate through body language and sounds, and once you understand them, you’ll see just how much personality they have.
- Binkies: Happy rabbits jump and twist mid-air.
- Thumping: A warning sign when they sense danger.
- Purring: Soft tooth grinding that shows contentment.
- Licking: A sign of affection toward trusted humans or other rabbits.
Care Requirements for Pet Rabbits
- Diet: Unlimited hay, small amounts of pellets, and fresh greens daily.
- Housing: Spacious enclosures or free-roam setups. Never small cages.
- Exercise: 3–4 hours of supervised playtime daily.
- Companionship: Rabbits thrive with another rabbit or daily human interaction.
- Grooming: Regular brushing, especially for long-haired breeds.
Best Products for Rabbit Owners
Aivituvin XL Indoor/Outdoor Hutch
Why it’s great: Spacious, safe, and durable—ideal for keeping pet rabbits happy.
- Pros: Predator-proof, easy cleaning, large capacity.
- Cons: Needs assembly and space.
Oxbow Western Timothy Hay
Why it’s great: Essential for digestion and dental health.
- Pros: Fresh, high fiber, vet-recommended.
- Cons: Pricier than farm hay.
Oxbow Essentials Rabbit Pellets
Why it’s great: Balanced nutrition to complement hay.
- Pros: Timothy-based, fortified with vitamins.
- Cons: Should be limited to avoid obesity.
Niteangel Grass Mats
Why it’s great: Safe, chewable mats that protect floors and prevent sore hocks.
- Pros: Edible, natural, inexpensive.
- Cons: Needs replacing often.
STKYGOOD Metal Hay Feeder
Why it’s great: Keeps hay and grass clean, prevents waste.
- Pros: Chew-proof, large capacity, durable.
- Cons: Costs more than plastic feeders.
Lixit Wide-Mouth Water Bottle
Why it’s great: Ensures rabbits always have fresh water.
- Pros: Large size, durable, easy to mount.
- Cons: Needs secure mounting.
Comparison Table
| Product | Main Benefit | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aivituvin Hutch | Spacious housing | Indoor/outdoor rabbits | See Price |
| Oxbow Timothy Hay | Digestive health | All rabbits | See Price |
| Oxbow Pellets | Balanced nutrition | Adult rabbits | See Price |
| Niteangel Grass Mats | Chew-safe flooring | Active rabbits | See Price |
| STKYGOOD Hay Feeder | Clean hay storage | All setups | See Price |
| Lixit Water Bottle | Hydration | Indoor & outdoor setups | See Price |
FAQ
Are rabbits good pets for kids?
Rabbits can be family pets, but they don’t tolerate rough handling. They are better for older children and adults.
Do rabbits like being held?
Most rabbits don’t like being picked up, but they enjoy being petted and spending time with their owners.
Can rabbits live indoors?
Yes, many rabbits thrive indoors as free-roam pets, much like cats.
Do rabbits need a lot of space?
Yes. Rabbits should never be kept in small cages. Use the Cage Size Calculator to determine the right enclosure size.
How long do rabbits live as pets?
Most domestic rabbits live 8–12 years with proper diet, housing, and care.
Conclusion
So, are rabbits good pets? The answer is yes—for the right people. Rabbits are affectionate, playful, and rewarding companions, but they require daily care, space, and patience. They’re not starter pets, but when cared for properly, rabbits can become beloved members of the family.
👉 Before adopting a rabbit, plan ahead. Use the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator to ensure your housing setup provides enough space for a happy, healthy rabbit.
Final Tip: If you’re ready to commit, a rabbit can be one of the most loving, unique, and delightful pets you’ll ever have.