Rabbits are inquisitive and adventurous pets. They love a spacious environment to explore, a rabbit friend for company, and tasty food to graze on.
Often seen as cute and fluffy, rabbits come with big characters and a variety of needs. They’re social animals, with the best combination being a neutered male and female pair. This means you should think carefully before taking rabbits on as pets.
Although they do not enjoy being handled, with time and patience rabbits can bond very closely with people. Then they’ll often choose to hop up for a tasty treat or a chin rub hello.
If you’re thinking of getting pet rabbits, we have the essential information you’ll need to help make that decision a little easier.
Rabbits need to live with a neutered rabbit companion to help them feel safe and happy. The best mix is a neutered male & female.
Rabbits can live for 8-12 yrs+
Rabbits need lots of space to keep them fit, healthy and happy. The ideal size is a 3m long by 2m wide by 1m high run with a 1.8m long by 0.6m wide by 0.6m high rabbit hutch or 6ft by 4ft shed, attached.
Rabbits are herbivores. Their diet should be 85% hay/ grass, 5% pellets, 10% vegetables and safe plants, with fresh drinking water always available.
Learn more about what to feed your rabbits.
Rabbits need two sets of vaccinations every year to protect them from Myxomatosis & RVHD 1&2. Their nails should be trimmed regularly & their teeth monitored for dental disease.
Rabbits enjoy the companionship of humans and can become very affectionate and enjoy taking tasty fresh forage from your hands.
However, rabbits do not enjoy being handled and are likely to kick and scratch if you try. They can also find loud noises and sudden movement scary. Therefore, they’re often suited to families with slightly older children who are happy to allow the rabbits to settle in their own time.
Discover the perfect care tips for your rabbits in our rabbit care guide.
A self-led online course suitable for anyone with pet rabbits, who works with rabbits, or who would simply like to learn more.
Read more about 'An introduction to rabbits – Online course'
This essential family course explores the basic needs of a rabbit. You’ll learn everything you need to know about how to keep your rabbits happy and healthy.
Read more about 'An introduction to rabbits – Online family course'
We’re part of the coalition of experts behind Rabbit Awareness Week, an annual rabbit welfare campaign which aims to improve the lives of pet rabbits. Here are some common questions around the theme ‘creating a great environment for our long-eared friends’.
Read more about 'Ask the experts: An introduction to rabbit accommodation'