By Amy
Rabbits are becoming more popular especially as first time pets. Many rabbit owners love the fact that pet rabbits are easy to care, take up less space and are a lot less noisy than other pets.
Even with the additional cost of a rabbit cage or outdoor rabbit hutch, they still come up on top when compared with the cost, maintenance and vet bills of other smaller pets.
When you consider how cute and fluffy they naturally are, it’s no wonder they have become more popular, especially as starter pets amongst children and teens alike.
If you are thinking about owning a pet for the first time or you have little ones who would love the challenge of caring for a pet then look no further.
Here are 5 reasons pet rabbits are great starter pets!
5 Reasons to Choose a Rabbit as a Starter Pet
- Rabbits are quiet
Unlike other animals, rabbits are generally quiet and don’t make loud or abrupt noises. This is great if you live in an apartment block with neighbors close by or you are a light sleeper as you’ll have little interruptions throughout the day and night
- Rabbits form strong bonds
Just like dogs and cats rabbits form close bonds with their owner and respond very well to love, affection and care. They can recognize your voice from a distance and are very capable of distinguishing your face from a group. They can even follow you around the house, which just makes them extra special!
- Rabbits take up less space
All pets need exercise but rabbits don’t need a lot of space to get it. If you live in a small house or apartment and you have less space to work with then a rabbit is ideal. Just pop him out of his cage and have him hop, skip and bounce around the room for a couple of hours. This has the added bonus of meaning you can keep them in smaller cages at home to save space.
- Rabbits respond well to training
Rabbits are very good at taking instructions and can be trained to follow simple instructions (like running through an obstacle course) and even litter trained. Small rewards like a “special snack” or “special treat” can be used as an incentive to encourage certain behavior.
Before you know it you’ll be showing off you new rabbit tricks to your friends and once you’ve seen a rabbit do “sit-ups” you know that it’s the best party trick around.
- Low maintenance and high enjoyment!
Rabbits are generally more low maintenance type pets. After buying a cage, hay & food, litter trays, food bowl, and a water dispenser you will have the basic supplies to take care of a rabbit. The best part is, most new rabbit cages will include these accessories in the purchase price which makes things a lot easier.
Make sure you keep a budget for regular health checks just to make sure your bunny stays happier and healthy for longer.
Rabbit-Proofing Your House
Every rabbit owner understands the importance of “rabbit proofing” their home. This needs to be done to protect not only your rabbit but your home as well. Rabbits do love to dig and chew but need to do so in a rather non-destructive manner so as not to get into any trouble.
Here are three tips to take into account when you are bringing a rabbit into your home for the first time.
- More Toys
Providing your rabbit with many toys can help dissuade him from chewing on your belongings. Remember that when your rabbit is occupied he will be less inclined to be destructive.
- More Supervision
Also remember to supervise your rabbit whenever he is out of his cage or hutch, because not only will your bunny love all the attention from you, you can also make sure that your rabbit doesn’t get into anything naughty.
Be alert for wires as a rabbit’s sharp teeth can slice through almost any wire very quickly, damaging your favorite lamp, or worse, electrocuting your rabbit. Rather cover wires with hard plastic sleeves or flexible tubing which can be bought at any hardware or home improvement store.
Rabbits are also quite adept at squeezing into tight spaces, like behind a bookshelf or under a bed. To prevent this from happening you will need to block off these areas.
Rabbits are also natural diggers and will dig anywhere they can, especially on your carpets. So be on the lookout for any loose edges that can be pulled and dug on by your rabbit.
- Household Germs
Molding is something else that is also frequently chewed on by rabbits. This is another reason why you should give your rabbit plenty of other chewing options, such as natural wicker baskets and various other chew toys.
Houseplants can be dangerous to all rabbits. It is best to keep any and all plants out of the reach of your rabbit. Poinsettia, holly, tomato leaves, and tulips are among the plants that are the most toxic to your rabbits.
By rabbit proofing your house, you will be able to provide a safe environment for your rabbit and protect your belongings. This will make both you and your rabbit very happy and have a very healthy relationship as well.
That’s it! I hope we’ve shown that rabbits can be great starter pets. A rabbit is a perfect choice if you want a low maintenance pet that is affordable, lovable and responds well to tricks! All this means more fun for you and a happier pet!
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