🐇 Small Pets

Rabbit

Social, clever and more involved than you think.

Rabbits are intelligent, social animals that can be litter-trained and live happily indoors. They need space, a hay-based diet and a companion rabbit or lots of human interaction.

Lifespan8–12 years
SizeSmall–Medium · 2–12 lb
Care levelModerate
Typical cost$60–100 / month
Great for
Adults & teensIndoor homesPatient ownersCuriousSocialSensitive
Rabbit

Photo: Friedrich Haag · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Care guide

Daily care

A large exercise pen or bunny-proofed room, not a small hutch. Cover cords; provide hideouts.

Unlimited grass hay (80%+), fresh leafy greens daily and a small amount of plain pellets.

At least 4 hours of free-roam time daily.

Brush weekly, daily during molts. Trim nails every 6–8 weeks.

Health

Common health concerns

Know what to watch for. Early detection makes most of these far easier and cheaper to treat.

  • GI stasis
  • Overgrown teeth
  • Uterine cancer in unspayed females
  • Snuffles (respiratory infection)
  • Flystrike
Veterinary care

Vet visits

Find an exotics-savvy vet; annual exam; spay/neuter recommended.

Find a vet near me

You might also like

More small pets

This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Costs are rough U.S. estimates for food, supplies and routine care. Always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet’s needs.