Looking for a pet: consider a rabbit

They can be cute and cuddly. They can be as playful as a puppy or kitten, but they are also curious and mischievous and love to chew. If your children leave their clothes on the floor, if you have tassels and strings hanging from your curtains or furniture, you’ll quickly learn that chewing is one of your new pet’s favorite pastimes. If the bunny is a household pet, don’t leave it home alone without supervision. And if your computer or any of your appliances stops working, it’s a good bet to check the electrical cord for teeth marks.

You will surely have a small expense in preparing a home for your new friend. You’ll need a hutch or cage to keep it out of trouble at night or when you’re not watching. Your pet supply store will probably have a variety of shelter facilities at a variety of prices. Or if you’re handy with tools, build one yourself. Just don’t use chicken wire or put slats too close together; be careful there is nothing that the rabbit can hurt himself with. Don’t keep your rabbit confined too long. They are sociable critters and feel lonely.

Other expenses may include the normal medical care you are required to provide for any pet. Spaying and neutering, vaccinations, flea treatment. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for other health issues, especially those that are specific to rabbits.

Rabbits generally don’t like to be picked up, so they’re not a lap-sitting animal or playmate for kids. They are quiet, clean, and for the most part like to be left alone. However, they do like a large area where they can move around and explore. Make sure they have room to exercise. Provide a door to your hutch to allow free access. They feel more comfortable if they have a safe place to go.

Rabbit owners are united in praise of their pets. Like most other pets, they all have different personalities, bond well with their owners, and are easily trained using treats and the same techniques used to train a dog.

However, we can’t stress it enough, do your homework. And if you think a rabbit is a pet you could live with, check with a pet shelter near you. They frequently have rabbits available.

Just remember, any pet needs love and proper care. By their nature, rabbits need a little more care than a dog or cat. Make sure you are committed.

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