Caring for rabbits is both easy and rewarding. With regular handling and attention, pet rabbits become very friendly and even learn to recognise their owners.
Domestic rabbits come in a range of shapes and sizes, from the diminutive Netherland dwarf to the Flemish giant weighing in at over five kilograms.
Rabbits can be kept indoors as well as out, making them an ideal pet for those living in apartments or flats.
Some interesting rabbit facts:
· Rabbits are not rodents as was once thought. They belong to the lagomorph order which also includes hares and the North American ‘Pika’.
· The wild rabbit was probably introduced into New Zealand as food for sealers and gold miners.
· Male rabbits can be neutered, which does not affect their personality, but makes them more compatible with other rabbits, and prevents them from ‘breeding like rabbits’.
Wild rabbits should not be kept or bred for pets as they are a serious pest in this country.
HOUSING
The size of the enclosure is somewhat determined by the size of the rabbit, although as with all captive animals, no cage is too big! A small to medium rabbit will require a minimum space of 150 x 60x 60cm. Larger rabbits require more space. Ensure that the hutch is dog proof, escape proof and provides sufficient shelter from wind, dampness and heat. A separate exercise run placed directly over a grassed area is a worthwhile investment. Alternatively the rabbit may be let out for excercise on an enclosed veranda or a room where there are no houseplants, other pets, or wires to chew.
DIET
Commercial rabbit pellets provide a balanced diet but should be supplemented with fresh greens and root vegetables on a regular basis. Lettuce is to be avoided as it can cause diarrhoea and has very little nutritional value. Flaked maize and a few sunflower seeds mixed in with the pellets will be relished by most rabbits. A mineral block covers any shortfalls. Fresh hay provides valuable roughage and is also suitable bedding material. Fresh water must be available at all times.
A block of non toxic untreated wood is necessary to prevent overgrown teeth.
SOCIAL LIFE
Male or buck rabbits cannot be housed together as serious fighting will result. Female or doe rabbits kept together are also prone to fighting when they reach maturity, unless housed in a very large enclosure. The best combination is a neutered buck and a doe. Alternatively, rabbits can be kept on their own.
An adult rabbit will almost never accept the subsequent introduction of another.
BREEDING
Rabbits breed all year round, producing 6-8 young in each litter. The gestation period is approximately 31 days, after which time the young are born blind and helpless. Weaning takes place at 6-7 weeks.
MAINTENANCE
It is very important to keep the rabbits environment clean and dry. To achieve this, an outside hutch will need to be cleaned 2-3 times per week and indoor accommodation, possibly daily.
LONGEVITY
Although the average lifespan of rabbits is normally stated at between 6-8 years, I know of several people with pet rabbits well over 10 years! |
