🐰 Vet’s 2025 Guide to Rabbit Care: Housing, Nutrition & Health Essentials 🏡🥕🩺

By Dr. Duncan Houston, BVSc

Rabbits are delightful companions that require specific care to thrive. This 2025 guide provides comprehensive information on housing, nutrition, and health to ensure your bunny leads a happy and healthy life.

🏡 Housing Your Rabbit

Creating a safe and comfortable environment is crucial:

• Space: Provide ample room for movement; a minimum of 3m x 2m x 1m is recommended.
• Enclosure: Use secure, predator-proof housing with solid flooring to prevent injuries.
• Temperature: Maintain a cool environment; rabbits are sensitive to heat.
• Enrichment: Include hiding spots, tunnels, and chew toys to stimulate natural behaviors.

🥕 Nutrition and Feeding

A balanced diet is essential for your rabbit's health:

• Hay: Unlimited access to fresh, high-quality hay supports digestion and dental health.
• Fresh Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens daily, such as romaine lettuce and kale.
• Pellets: Provide a limited amount of high-fiber pellets formulated for rabbits.
• Water: Ensure constant access to clean, fresh water.

🩺 Health and Wellness

Regular health checks and preventive care are vital:

• Veterinary Visits: Schedule annual check-ups with an exotics-savvy veterinarian.
• Vaccinations: Protect against diseases like calicivirus where applicable.
• Desexing: Spaying or neutering prevents unwanted litters and health issues.
• Grooming: Regularly brush your rabbit to remove loose fur and prevent matting.

🚽 Litter Training

Rabbits can be litter trained with patience:

• Litter Box: Use a box with rabbit-safe litter; avoid clumping or clay-based products.
• Placement: Place the box in a corner of the enclosure where your rabbit prefers to eliminate.
• Reinforcement: Reward your rabbit with treats and praise for using the litter box.

🐾 Socialization and Enrichment

Rabbits are social animals that benefit from interaction:

• Companionship: Consider adopting a bonded pair; rabbits thrive with company.
• Playtime: Provide daily out-of-cage time in a safe, supervised area.
• Toys: Offer chew toys, tunnels, and puzzle feeders to prevent boredom.

📱 Resources & Support

For personalized advice and support:

• Visit Ask A Vet for expert consultations.
• Download the Ask A Vet app for convenient access to veterinary support.
• Explore Woopf for training tools and enrichment products.
• Check out Purrz for nutritional supplements and wellness products.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your rabbit enjoys a fulfilling and healthy life. 🐰🏡🥕