Information on Male & Female Rabbits

Rabbits can make sociable, fun pets. Whether you decide to adopt or purchase a pet rabbit, realize that the commitment you are about to make is a significant and lengthy one. A rabbit, whether male or female, lives an average of 10 years and during this time you are responsible for its care. Learning about rabbits before getting one can help to prepare you for what is to come.

  1. General Rabbit Facts

    • The male rabbit, referred to as a buck, and the female rabbit, known as a doe, are a lot like cats. Both the male and female rabbits can be litter trained; they groom themselves; can purr like cats and they can even spit up hairballs. However, rabbits avoid hairballs by eating hay. The American Rabbit Breeders Association recognizes 45 breeds of rabbits which can weight anywhere from two to 20 pounds.

    Choosing a Male or Female Rabbit

    • The character of the male and female rabbit is similar. The decision on which to get really comes into play when pairing them up and trying to bond them. Putting two female rabbits or two male rabbits together can be disastrous because the two may constantly fight, especially if they are not neutered or spayed. A non-neutered male and spayed female rabbit don't go well together because the male will constantly try to mount the female, which upsets her. The best combination is a neutered male and spayed female.

    Spaying or Neutering Rabbits

    • If you don't want to breed rabbits, spaying or neutering your rabbits is critical. Spaying removes the reproductive organs of the female rabbit and neutering removes the testicles of the male rabbit. Untreated rabbits, regardless of gender, may frequently spray urine around the house to mark their territory. They are also more aggressive and destructive. Spayed and neutered rabbits are easier to litter train, have a calm demeanor and are at lower risk of cancer and urinary tract infections.

    Pet Rabbit Care

    • The rabbit cage needs cleaning every two to three days and your rabbit's nails need to be trimmed every six weeks. Provide plenty of hay because the fiber is essential for their digestive health. When you let your rabbit out of his cage, he can risk his life by gnawing on wires and cable or by mistaking your houseplants for food. Rabbit-proofing your house is therefore essential. Both male and female rabbits enjoy attention and are social animals. Play with them because when they are bored they tend to get destructive and get into trouble.