1. Diet:
* Hay: The cornerstone of a rabbit's diet. Timothy hay, oat hay, or orchard grass hay should make up 80% of their daily intake.
* Pellets: A small amount of high-quality rabbit pellets should be provided daily (around 1/4 cup for a 5 lb rabbit).
* Fresh vegetables: Offer a variety of leafy greens, vegetables, and herbs daily.
* Fruits: Treats in moderation. Apples, bananas, berries, and melons can be given sparingly.
* Water: Always have fresh, clean water available.
2. Housing:
* Spacious: A large cage or hutch is essential. Rabbits need space to move around and exercise.
* Secure: The enclosure should be escape-proof, with a solid bottom to prevent digging.
* Comfortable: A soft bed of hay, straw, or shredded paper provides a cozy place for resting.
* Temperature: Rabbits are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Ideal room temperature is between 60-70°F.
* Ventilation: Good air circulation is important to prevent ammonia build-up.
3. Exercise and Enrichment:
* Playtime: Rabbits need daily exercise. Provide a safe area for them to hop, run, and explore.
* Toys: Offer a variety of toys for chewing, hiding, and playing.
* Socialization: Rabbits are social animals and can benefit from interaction with other rabbits or humans.
4. Veterinary Care:
* Regular checkups: Annual wellness exams are essential for early detection of health issues.
* Vaccinations: Rabbits should be vaccinated against rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHD) and myxomatosis.
* Dental care: Rabbits have continuously growing teeth that need to be worn down by chewing.
* Parasite prevention: Regular deworming and flea and tick control are important.
5. Mental Wellbeing:
* Safe and Secure Environment: A quiet and peaceful space where the rabbit can feel safe from predators and threats is crucial for their mental well-being.
* Routine: Establishing a regular feeding, playtime, and clean-up schedule provides a sense of stability and security.
* Social Interaction: Provide opportunities for interaction with other rabbits or humans to prevent loneliness and boredom.
By following these guidelines, you can create a thriving environment for your rabbit, ensuring they have a long and happy life.