Tips for New Bunny Pet Parents!
If you're thinking about hopping into bunny parenthood—especially around Easter—you’re not alone! Rabbits can make wonderful companions, but they also come with unique needs. To help guide you, I teamed up with my friend and rabbit-savvy colleague, Dr. Heather Miller of Thornblade Animal Hospital in Greenville, SC, to share some must-know tips for first-time rabbit owners.
Let’s dive into what it really takes to provide a safe, healthy, and happy home for your new rabbit addition.
1. Rabbits Need Room to Roam
Contrary to what some may think, rabbits aren’t low-maintenance, caged pets. In fact, they require plenty of space and supervised exercise to stay both mentally and physically healthy. Dr. Miller recommends setting up a playpen area that’s at least 8ft x 8ft, allowing your bunny to run, hop, and wiggle.
To protect your home (and your bunny), create a "bunny burrow" space free from hazards like electrical cords and baseboards. Using puppy playpens, baby gates, or x-pens can provide a safe area while giving them the space they need.
2. Housing: Comfort is Key
Your rabbit’s main enclosure should have a flat or padded bottom—avoid wire-bottom cages, which can hurt their feet. Many Pet Parents opt for foam mats or carpet squares to create a soft, easy-to-clean surface (but be careful that they don’t ingest carpet or foam). Also, make sure your rabbit always has access to a clean litter area and cozy hiding spots for when they need downtime.
3. A Proper Bunny Diet
Nutrition plays a critical role in your rabbit’s long-term health. The core of an adult rabbit’s diet should be high-fiber grass hay—think Timothy or orchard grass. Alfalfa hay is richer and should be used only for young, growing bunnies or as an occasional treat.
Pair that with a high-quality pellet such as Oxbow or Mazuri, and offer fresh leafy greens daily (like romaine lettuce, cilantro, or parsley). When it comes to hydration, use a water bowl instead of a water bottle. Proper water containers and a good diet will help prevent a common ailment called stasis, where their gut motility slows down.
4. Vaccinations & Health Care
If your rabbit will spend time outdoors, talk to your vet about the Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV2) vaccine. This highly contagious and often fatal disease has emerged in the U.S. in recent years. Rabbits should get an initial vaccine, a booster three weeks later, and then annual vaccinations thereafter.
Regular vet visits, nail trims, and monitoring for dental disease are also essential parts of rabbit care. Rabbits are prey animals, so they tend to hide illness—making preventive care especially important.
5. Final Thoughts: Prepare Before You Adopt
While rabbits are adorable and can be incredibly affectionate, they require as much commitment as dogs and cats. Be prepared for daily care, social interaction, and a lifespan of 8–12 years or more. A well-prepared Pet Parent makes for a happy bunny—and a stronger bond.
Until next time,
—Dr. Kate 🐰