July is just hopping along. It’s Adopt A Rescued Rabbit Month. Plus, Rabbit Week starts on the 26th. Just like other pets, rabbits need suitable food, fresh water, and regular veterinary care. However, they also have some fairly specific needs, which are quite different from those of dogs and cats. It’s important to do some research before adopting Floppy, so you can understand her care needs and avoid harmful mistakes. A local Seminole, FL vet lists some common bunny care mistakes in this article.
One of the most common mistakes is simply getting a cage that isn’t big enough. Floppy should have plenty of room to stand up, stretch out, hop around, eat, play, and use her litterbox freely, without tripping over her things or touching the cage sides or top. Be sure to choose a cage with a solid bottom.
Floppy has open-rooted teeth, which are suited for grinding down tough roots and plants. Pet rabbits eat softer foods, so they need chew toys to wear their teeth down. There are great ones in stores, but there are also plenty of easy and inexpensive DIY options for this. Ask your vet for advice.
Rabbits are quite active and curious. Floppy won’t be happy if she’s stuck in her cage all the time. Your cute pet will need plenty of supervised playtime every day. This can be great bunny bonding time!
Before you let your furry friend out to play, you’ll need to do some bunnyproofing. This entails removing anything that could be dangerous, such as small or sharp objects, toxic plants, chemicals, medications, and wires and cords. You’ll also need to protect things like furniture legs and baseboards, and seal off spaces under and behind furniture and cabinets. Ask your vet for tips.
Floppy is quite clean, but she still needs help in this department. Long-haired bunnies are a bit extra here: they require daily grooming. Short-haired bunnies should be brushed at least every week or so. You’ll also need to trim your furry diva’s claws, and clean her eyes and ears. However, you should never bathe your bunny! Floppy is so scared of water she can actually die of fright after being submerged.
Do you have questions about bunny care? Call us, your pet Seminole, FL hospital! We’re ‘hoppy’ to help!
