Domestic Rabbits: Are They Really Easy to Raise?

Their delicate appearance, calm demeanor, and compact size make rabbits the perfect choice for anyone looking for a unique pet.

But behind the cute, quiet image, there are challenges that many guardians only discover after adoption. Caring for domestic rabbits requires much more than offering food and affection.

They have specific needs, unique behaviors, and require a tailored environment. Understanding this reality is essential for anyone considering adding a rabbit to their family.

Despite conveying an idea of simplicity, rabbits have a care structure that is closer to that of a wild animal than a traditional pet.

This means they need space to move around, environmental enrichment to explore, and specialized veterinary care.

Many owners, due to a lack of guidance, end up treating their rabbit as if it were a cat or small dog, which can have serious consequences for the animal's health and well-being.

Expectation vs. reality in everyday life

Rabbits are often seen as low-maintenance pets. They don't make noise, don't need to be walked, and, at first glance, seem independent.

But the truth is, they require time, observation, and presence. They are nocturnal animals, meaning they spend much of the day resting and are most active in the late afternoon and evening.

This pace may surprise those who expect constant interaction throughout the day.

Additionally, rabbits do not like to be left alone for long periods of time.

Even if they don't show it like a dog would, they miss company, especially when they don't have another rabbit around. Ideally, they should live in pairs, as they are social animals.

A lonely rabbit can develop behaviors such as apathy, aggression, or even physical signs of stress.

Food and health care

The diet of domestic rabbits is a central part of their daily care. They require a high-fiber diet, with unlimited hay, a variety of fresh vegetables, and a quality, species-specific diet.

Hay is not only a source of nutrition, but also an essential item for intestinal function and the proper wear of teeth, which grow continuously throughout life.

Another important point is the need for periodic examinations with a veterinarian specialized in exotic animals.

Rabbits can instinctively hide signs of pain, which delays diagnosis. Dental, digestive, and respiratory problems are common when care is not adequate.

Vaccination, parasite control, and neutering are also part of the recommended routine, although many owners still do not consider these practices essential.

The ideal space and routine for your rabbit

Many people believe that a cage is enough to keep a rabbit safe, but this is a common mistake. Domestic rabbits need space to move freely, run, jump, and explore their surroundings.

Cages can be part of the space, but they shouldn't be the only place they live. When kept confined all the time, rabbits tend to develop anxiety, muscle pain, and destructive behavior.

The ideal is to provide a safe room or adapt part of the house with fences and protection from wires, furniture and dangerous objects.

As curious animals, rabbits explore everything with their snouts and teeth. This means that unsupervised environments can pose serious risks, especially with plastics, fabrics, electrical outlets, and toxic plants.

The routine should include moments of interaction, play, environmental enrichment and rest in quiet and comfortable places.

Read also: Pets and Children: How to Teach Them Safe and Healthy Coexistence

Hygiene, behavior and real challenges

Contrary to what many people think, rabbits quickly learn to use litter trays, which makes living together much easier.

But success in this process depends on the environment and the owner's patience. Sudden changes, loud noises, or the presence of other animals can make adaptation difficult.

It is important to maintain a clear routine, respecting the animal's time and observing its signs of comfort or discomfort.

Rabbits' behavior also requires attention. They're not as easy to understand as dogs and don't like to be held, which can frustrate those seeking an affectionate pet in the more traditional sense.

They express affection differently: they nuzzle, lie close together, and discreetly lick. It's important to learn to read these signals and respect the animal's boundaries.

Another surprising aspect is the level of destruction a rabbit can cause when bored. Chewing furniture, digging up carpets, and digging into everything they can find are natural behaviors, but they require guidance.

Environmental enrichment helps control these impulses, but it doesn't eliminate them completely. Having a rabbit also means adapting your home to its presence, knowing that the environment needs to be designed to meet its needs.

Questions About Domestic Rabbits

Are rabbits good options for those with small children?
Despite being docile, rabbits don't like intense handling. Small children can frighten them, causing stress. Coexistence can be positive, as long as there is constant supervision and respect for the animal's space.

Can they live loose in the house all the time?
They can, as long as the environment is safe. It's important to protect wires, dangerous objects, and toxic plants. Supervision is essential, especially in the first few months.

Do domestic rabbits need to be bathed?
No. They clean themselves. Baths can cause stress and even hypothermia. In cases of localized dirt, cleaning should be done with a damp cloth, very carefully.

What is the life expectancy of a well-cared-for rabbit?
Domestic rabbits live on average eight to twelve years, depending on the breed, care and veterinary monitoring.

Can they live with other pets, such as cats or dogs?
It depends on the temperament of all animals involved. Socialization should be done calmly and under supervision. Not all rabbits are comfortable with other pets.

Do rabbits need company or can they live alone?
Rabbits are social animals and ideally should live in compatible pairs or groups. Prolonged solitude can lead to stress, apathy, and compulsive behavior. If you only have one rabbit, you'll need to dedicate more time to daily interaction.

Can rabbits live in apartments?
Yes, as long as the space is adapted to the animal's needs. Even in small spaces, it's possible to create safe areas for the animal to move around, explore, and rest peacefully. Ventilation, temperature, and noise protection must be considered.