04/04/2026
Bunnies for Easter
Easter is often a time when families consider buying a rabbit as a gift for their children. It can seem like a simple decision—purchase a hutch and a bunny, and you’re all set. However, caring for rabbits is more complex than it may initially appear.
Rather than simply advising against purchasing a rabbit at Easter, we aim to provide a basic care guide to help you make an informed decision and ensure you are prepared to meet a rabbit’s needs.
Social Needs
Rabbits are highly social animals and thrive in the company of others. It is recommended to keep rabbits in pairs. If you choose to have only one rabbit, it is essential that it receives frequent interaction and attention to prevent loneliness.
Housing Options
Rabbits can be kept as indoor or outdoor pets:
Indoors: Rabbits can adapt well to indoor living and can be litter trained, similar to cats. However, it is important to protect electrical cords, as rabbits chew frequently and can damage wiring or injure themselves.
Outdoors: Outdoor housing must be secure and well-ventilated. Hutches should be fully enclosed with flyscreen to protect against mosquitoes, which can carry fatal diseases for rabbits. These diseases have no cure, as they are used to control wild rabbit populations.
Dietary Requirements
A proper diet is essential for a rabbit’s health:
Hay should be available at all times and makes up approximately 80% of a rabbit’s diet.
Fresh vegetables should account for around 15% of their diet.
Pellets or grains should only make up about 5% and should be given in small amounts (approximately 1/8 cup per day).
Carrots and fruit should be offered only as occasional treats due to their high sugar content.
Iceberg lettuce is not recommended, as it has low nutritional value and high water content.
Housing Space
While hutches may be suitable for overnight shelter, they are not appropriate for full-time confinement. According to RSPCA guidelines, a minimum space of 3m x 1.5m x 1.5m is recommended for two rabbits. Providing more space is always beneficial, as rabbits enjoy room to move, explore, and exercise.
Enrichment and Wellbeing
Rabbits are intelligent animals that require mental stimulation. Enrichment can include toys, tunnels, and DIY activities, many of which can be easily found or created at home. Providing stimulation helps prevent boredom and supports overall wellbeing.