Rabbit Care in Bradenton, FL
Rabbits make wonderful, affectionate pets, but they have unique care needs that require special attention. From their living space to their diet, every aspect of their care plays a role in keeping them healthy and happy. Whether you’re a new rabbit owner or just looking to brush up on best practices, here’s everything you need to know about caring for your furry friend to help them live their best life!
Contact us today to schedule your rabbit's wellness care visit. If you have questions, call us at (941) 741-8445!
Creating the Perfect Home for Your Rabbit
Your rabbit’s environment should be a safe, comfortable space where they can eat, rest, and play. A properly sized enclosure helps keep them secure while providing room for movement. Be sure to include:
- A covered hideaway for security and rest
- Enrichment toys to encourage mental stimulation
- Soft, absorbent bedding that is changed regularly
- Fresh food and water available at all times
Cleanliness is key! Remove soiled bedding and uneaten food daily to maintain a healthy environment.
What Should Rabbits Eat?
Rabbits are herbivores, meaning their diet is entirely plant-based. Your rabbit should always have fresh food and water available, with a well-balanced diet consisting of:
- Unlimited timothy hay — Forms the foundation of their diet and is essential for digestion and dental health
- High quality pellets without treats — Oxbow formulates a great option for a well-balanced diet
- Leafy greens & vegetables — High in fiber and great for overall health, but needs to be given in moderation
- Limited fruits — Can also be given in moderation as a treat due to their natural high sugar content
We recommend that foods high in calcium, such as leafy greens, are given more sparingly due to increased risks for bladder stones. You should also limit foods that are high in sugar, like fruit, as they can cause GI stasis if given in copious amounts. Rabbits also eat cecotropes, which are small nutrient-rich stools that some animals produce and then consume to aid in overall health and wellness.
What is Gastrointestinal (GI) Stasis?
GI stasis is a condition in which the muscles in a rabbit’s digestive tract slow down or completely cease to move, which can cause a buildup of food, fluids, or gas. Some symptoms to look for in your rabbit include a loss of appetite, decrease in stools, and behavior changes. As the saying goes, “Your rabbit should always be doing 4 things: eating, drinking, defecating, and urinating." If this ever stops, please seek medical care immediately.
Rabbits Need Companionship
Rabbits are social animals who thrive with a buddy! While male-female pairings tend to bond the easiest, same-gender bonds can also work with patience and care. To avoid unwanted litters, we strongly recommend spaying and neutering your rabbits.
Importance of Sterilizing Your Pet Rabbits
We always recommend spaying or neutering your pet rabbit. This helps prevent overpopulation, or surprise baby bunnies! If you have a male rabbit, neutering them can help prevent aggression. If you have a female rabbit, spaying can help prevent uterine cancer and mastitis.
