Choosing a rabbit as a pet

Rabbits

Rabbits are a longer lived small companion, and average around 8-10 years, but with the right support and care they can live to as long as 15 years old. Rabbits can be litter box trained, and learn to do a variety of tricks. Rabbits have a big personality, and enjoy being part of the family (similar to a family cat or dog) more than many small companion animals.

Rabbits need a very large environment, as well as out of the cage time for exercise. Your bunny will need their cage and litterbox cleaned (that is cleaned properly, not just some extra bedding) at least every other day, meaning they require a lot of maintenance. Many rabbits do not appreciate being carried around, and prefer to interact on the floor. Many bunnies will chew on wooden furniture, carpets, or cords if not properly 'house trained'.

Feeding rabbits correctly is key to them having a long life.  Their teeth and intestines have evolved to eat lots of harsh plant material, which is why they flourish so well in Australia.  It follows that they need most of their food in the form of hay, and anything else only as a treat.  If you feed rabbits food that appeals to humans, they will almost invariably get tooth problems because the teeth don't wear down as much as they should, and intestinal problems.

All female rabbits should be spayed to avoid the development of uterine tumors by about the age of five.