Are you considering getting a bunny? Congratulations! These little furballs are super cute and can make great pets. You’ll want to do some research before bringing your new pet home, as rabbits do have some very specific care requirements. In this article from Fairfield Animal Hospital, a Cypress, TX vet discusses basic bunny care.

Habitat

Making sure Floppy is comfortable and happy in her cage is very important! Your furball will need room to run, hop, stretch, sleep, and play, without tripping over her belongings. Avoid cages with wire floors, as these can hurt those adorable paws. Once you have the cage, you’ll need to add substrate. Aspen is a good option. Avoid pine or cedar substrates, which are toxic to bunnies. Floppy will also need a hidey-hole, dishes, a water bottle, and toys. A litterbox is optional, but can be quite useful! You may also want to get a hayrack. Don’t be surprised if you find your adorable pet has very specific ways of arranging her things. Bunnies can be very stubborn decorators!

Diet

Quality grass hay, such as Timothy hay, should form the bulk of your bunny’s diet. You’ll want to supplement this with a commercial rabbit food. Floppy will also need fresh produce every day. Ask your vet for specific nutritional recommendations, including portion sizes, as some things are only safe or suitable in small amounts.

Toys

Keep your furball entertained by providing lots of fun toys. You can find some adorable bunny toys in stores, but you can also make Floppy’s playthings out of safe, suitable materials like plain cardboard or paper. Many wood items are also safe. Offer plenty of chewable items, as bunnies must chew to keep their teeth healthy. For safety reasons, avoid anything with sharp edges, chemical or cosmetic coating, or small parts.

Bunnyproofing

Bunnies need time out of their cages every day. Before letting Floppy out to play, you’ll need to do some bunnyproofing. This basically entails removing or securing wires and cords; small items; books, shoes, and other personal belongings; toxic plants; household chemicals; and medicine. You’ll also need to protect furniture legs, baseboards, and carpet, and block off spaces beneath and behind furniture and cabinets. Of course, proper veterinary care is also very important! If you have any questions or concerns about your rabbit’s health, please call Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cypress, TX animal hospital, today!