How to Care for Baby Rabbits

Proper care of pets leads to a long and loving relationship. Bringing a baby rabbit or bunny into your home can be an exciting time. Enjoy watching this small fuzzy creature with a twitching nose and fuzzy tail hop around the house. Its soft and warm fur is almost irresistible to the touch. As with any pet, bunnies require special care. Be prepared even before their arrival to meet their special needs.

Things You'll Need

  • Cage
  • Fresh vegetables
  • Rabbit pellet food
  • Feeding bowls
  • Litter box
  • Toys
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare your home. Before you acquire the baby rabbit, secure cabinet doors and hide all electrical cords, placing them out of reach of the bunny. This will protect them from dangerous chemicals kept in the house and prevent the rabbit from being electrocuted if it chews on the wires.

    • 2

      Build or buy a cage for your bunny. The cage should be as large as possible in your given space. Wire is preferred; a rabbit can chew through wood.

    • 3

      Introduce the baby rabbit to its new environment. Slowly show the new pet different areas and household members. Be especially cautious with introductions to other household pets as rabbits do not get along with all species.

    • 4

      Schedule feeding times. Feed the baby rabbit at regular intervals. His diet should include fresh vegetables and commercial pellets made for rabbits. Use ceramic feeding bowls to prevent the baby rabbit from chewing them up.

    • 5

      Train your baby rabbit to use a litter box. Place the box in her cage in the area she has previously relieved herself. Put a few of her droppings in the box to give it her scent.

    • 6

      Give your baby rabbit plenty of hard toys to chew on. Pet stores sell toys designed for rabbits to gnaw on that dull their teeth and prevent them from chewing on other household items.

    • 7

      Schedule an annual visit to the vet. Rabbits typically do not need vaccinations, but yearly check-ups are recommended. Any signs of malaise or lack of appetite also are reasons for a medical visit.

    • 8

      Check your rabbit for fleas or mites on a regular basis. Do not use flea soaps or collars. Comb out fleas with a lice comb and treat ear mites with appropriate over-the-counter medications.

    • 9

      Exercise your bunny daily. Let him out of his cage to hop around the house and explore for needed exercise. Do not leave him alone during this time.

    • 10

      Pet and love your baby rabbit. Rabbits require attention. Gently stroke their fur, hold them in your arms or lap, and talk to them daily.