Ccspca @ MindSay

Piggy-backing off of yesterday's post about the critters recently adopted at the SPCA, I want to pass along some info about rabbits for anyone who might be lurking/reading and is considering getting a bunny for a child/significant other/etc.

Luckily, the family who adopted Sarah the bunny was very knowledgeable about rabbits... the daughter was spouting off everything she had read in books! But such is not always the case, so if you're thinking about buying a rabbit, please read this first...

[*] You must find an vet who has knowledge pertaining to rabbits. Not all vets will treat rabbits as they are often considered "exotic" pets.

[*] Domesticated rabbits are best kept in the home. Even in the best outside hutch they can be in danger. As a kid, my bunny Sniffles stayed outside in a large hutch. He had plenty of room and stayed warm during cold nights, but even so he was never truly *safe* from predators. If I ever own another rabbit he/she will be indoors-only!

[*] Rabbits are social animals and like companionship, either human or another bunny.

[*] Unless you clean your rabbit's litter box (and yes they can be litter trained) every day, it can smell a bit strong.

[*] Commercial cages (like the ones you buy at Petsmart) are TOO SMALL!

[*] Rabbits will chew on baseboards, pull up carpet, rip up blankets, eat your books, and chew wires right in two. Sniffles was famous for all of the above.

[*] House rabbits can live up to ten years (like Sniffy did)! Make sure you're able to commit to caring for your pet for this long before purchasing/adopting.

[*] Rabbits have incredibly sharp claws and teeth. They will not hesitate to use them. Trust me.

[*] Spaying/Neutering can cost up to $250. And yes, you can spay/neuter a rabbit. Benefits to altering are much the same as in cats and dogs. Plus, an unaltered male will chase and attempt to mate with practically anything that moves. Including your legs.

[*] You have to cut rabbits' nails every month or so, and believe me that is not a fun task. You also have to make sure the rabbit has enough hard material (wooden blocks, treat logs, etc) to wear down its teeth. Those suckers grow fast, and if not trimmed, can impact the rabbit's ability to eat and drink.

[*] Rabbits need special litter. Carefresh or Yesterday's News and Wood Pellets are three of the favorites among rabbit owners.

/End public service announcement. :)