Amy's RabbitRant
*Dedicated to the memory of Quincy*
I no longer have the time to update this page, but I am receiving almost daily e-mails from people asking questions about their new rabbit friends. So I'd like to take a moment to direct you to the place where I learned everything I know...the best place on the web to learn about rabbits.
The House Rabbit Society is a wonderful organization dedicated to improving the lives of rabbits. At their website, you will learn about bunnyproofing your home, behavioural issues, the importance of spaying or neutering your rabbit, diet, medical care, and more! Anything I could tell you would only be rehashing what I've learned from the HRS.
Please visit their website and read through the pages. You will probably find the answer to your question in there.
Another good resource is a book written by the founder of the HRS, Marinell Harriman, called The House Rabbit Handbook. The most complete, humane and sensible approach to living with a rabbit I've ever found. If you can't get the book through the link at left, try your library. But READ THIS BOOK!
I am glad to report that the House Rabbit Handbook is BACK in print, and available at Amazon. While you're at it, here are some other books you might be interested in:
- The Rabbit: An Owner's Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet
- Creating a Peaceable Kingdom: How to Live With More Than One Pet
(For those of you who wrote me about your bunny and your other pet(s) having trouble getting along...this is the one for you!)
- Why Does My Rabbit...?
The history of domesticated rabbits and the behavior influences of their
wild ancestry is used to explain many aspects of rabbit behavior (aka
"Why is my rabbit eating my house?")
- Hop To It: A guide to training your pet rabbit
(a bit outdated, but some good information can be found here)
Mostly, remember that a rabbit is not a cat. Rabbits have very specific nutritional, environmental, behavioural and emotional requirements that you need to understand in order for you both to have a happy, healthy life together. Knowledge is a GOOD thing. Visit the HRS website. Read it all. I know I'm repeating myself. I don't care.
So go. What are you still doing here?
RabbitRant Archives
- Sept/Oct 1997: Pet rabbits...nothing new!
- July/Aug 1997: Your rabbit and the outdoors
- May/June 1997: Rabbits as pets...the pros and the cons
- February 1997: Getting your bunny a companion he or she will actually LIKE...
- January 1997: Your Bunny's New Year's Resolutions (AKA diet and exercise hints)
- December 1996: Holiday hazards facing your bunny
- November 1996: Pet stores and your rabbit
- Sept/Oct 1996: How to bring your outdoor rabbit inside for good!
Last modified December 1, 1999 Disclaimer: Amy is not a vet. She is a person who loves rabbits.
Please consult a qualified rabbit veterinarian when making any changes that will affect your rabbit.