10 SURPRISING FACTS ABOUT RABBITS
Did you know that rabbits can see behind themselves without turning their heads? That's just one of the many amazing facts about these furry little creatures. Rabbits are friendly, curious and social animals that make great pets for those with large backyards. They're also incredibly smart and can live for up to 15 years.
1. Rabbits are not rodents
Rabbits are often thought of as similar to other rodent species such as guinea pigs. In fact, rabbits belong to the 'Lagomorpha' family, which also includes hares. This is separate from 'Rodentia' which includes guinea pigs, mice, rats, porcupines and even beavers. It's important that you don't buy items that are more suited for "all types of small animals" and find items that are suited for rabbits only.
2. Rabbits don't belong in cages 24/7
Rabbits are most comfortable when they have a place to call their own. A rabbit cage can provide them with just that - but it is important that you allow your bunny out of the confines of its cell for regular exercise. Just like cats and dogs, rabbits love to explore new places! In some cases, rabbits can even be trained to use an existing pet door to come and go as they please. Like dogs, they also enjoy snuggling up on the couch for a movie night or sleeping the afternoon away in the sunshine.
3. Rabbits can be housetrained to use a litter tray
The process of housetraining your bunny is very similar to training a puppy. Rabbits are naturally clean animals, so it's easy to show them where they should go potty. It's best to look for larger litter boxes as the rabbit should be able to sit and turn around within the space. You can even purchase litter trays designed especially for rabbits. Though it is important not to use cat litter to fill it as most cat litters contain clay and chemicals which are harmful to rabbits. It's best to use soft hemp bedding, straw or even wood shavings for their litter box. Be sure to clean the litter box almost daily as rabbits will choose to go to a clean area to do their business and you don't want that.
4. Rabbits are social creatures and should have a companion
Rabbits are very social animals and love the company of their own kind, these are called a rabbit colony or herd. It's best to at least consider adopting another rabbit if you work a lot and are unable to offer that companionship a lot. A single rabbit can become lonely and bored, which may lead to destructive behaviour. If your rabbit is mostly indoors, you may find that they follow you from room to room.
5. Rabbits are playful animals
Rabbits love to run, jump and play. You can tell if your rabbit is happy because they may even do a little wiggle dance. Rabbits enjoy playing with toys designed for cats or dogs as well - but be sure that any toy you give them is safe and won't come apart easily. When a rabbit is truly excited, you might see them do a 'binky' which is the act of gleefully jumping in the air and twisting their heads and body in opposite directions. Many call this move a 'happy bunny dance'
6. Rabbits can purr
Just like cats, rabbits can purr. This is a sign of contentment and usually happens when they are being petted or groomed. It doesn't sound like you imagine, but more like a chatting of teeth sound. That's when you know they are relaxed and content.
7. Rabbits can live up to 15 years
Most rabbits live for around eight to twelve years, but some have been known to reach fifteen. That's a long time commitment, so be sure you are prepared for the responsibility before bringing home your new bunny friend.
8. Rabbits are NOT good pets for young children
Rabbits are very fragile and easily injured by small children who may not be gentle with them. They are also prone to jumping away from danger and a child's strong grip on them can cause serious injury or even death. In addition, young kids are often too rough or noisy for rabbits, which can lead to stress and even health problems down the line. If you're looking for a pet that your whole family can enjoy, then a rabbit is probably not the choice for you. We'd highly recommend taking the family down to your local animal shelter and rescuing an older dog or cat. They have more patience than rabbits. It's also important to not give your rabbit a bath for this same reason. Ceramic bathtubs can be very harmful if a rabbit thrashes around out of fear. Rabbits are self-cleaning animals so don't put them in a bath or water.
9. Rabbit Teeth never stop growing
Just like other animals, rabbits have two sets of teeth - baby teeth and adult teeth. The adult teeth grow in behind the baby ones and as they wear down, more permanent adult teeth come in to take their place. This is why it's important for your rabbit to have access to hay and a hard food diet. You can even invest in rabbit toys that are designed to help grind down their teeth on a daily basis.
10. Rabbits chew 120 times a minute
This is one of the reasons why it's so important for rabbits to have access to hay or chew toys - they need something to chew on to help wear down their teeth. A rabbit will typically chew on anything they can find, including furniture, wires and even their own fur. That's a lot of chewing! So be sure to provide them with plenty of distractions and as a treat every so often hard foods like chopped fruit, carrots and other solid vegetables, but please do not feed your rabbit light coloured lettuce as it can be harmful to rabbits. Opt for dark leafy greens like bok choy, carrot tops, broccoli and romaine lettuce. A rabbit's overall diet should consist of 85% hay, 15% vegetables and only 5% store-bought pellets.
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WHAT TO FEED YOUR NEW SMALL PET
Wallington’s Pet Supplies have an excellent range of pet food for small animals and pocket pets, including a great range of snacks and treats. Remember, treats for small animals are sometimes food just as they are for larger pets (and humans too!).