Rules can still vary by city, county or species. Check your state before buying.
Laws change. Verify with your state wildlife agency before purchasing.
Check your state's rules →Housing and enclosure setup
Think room, not hutch: an exercise pen or rabbit-proofed room of at least 4 x 8 ft that they can use all day, with a hide box to retreat to.
Solid, non-slip flooring, a large litter tray filled with hay over paper pellets, and chew-safe toys. Cover or remove electrical cords.
Diet
Unlimited fresh grass hay (timothy, orchard or meadow) should make up about 80% of the diet — it keeps the gut moving and wears down teeth that never stop growing.
Add a measured portion of plain timothy pellets and a daily handful of leafy greens. Fruit and carrots are occasional treats only. No muesli mixes, bread or iceberg lettuce.
Health basics
A rabbit that stops eating or pooping for 12 hours is an emergency — gut stasis can kill quickly.
Watch for overgrown teeth, drooling, runny eyes, head tilt and dirty bottoms. Spaying and neutering prevents uterine cancer and helps litter habits.
Lifespan
Typically 8-12 years.
Beginner tips
Rabbits are prey animals: pick them up rarely and support the hindquarters. Sit on the floor and let them come to you.
They are happiest with a bonded rabbit companion of a neutered opposite sex.
General guidance only. Nothing here replaces an exotics or avian vet who knows your animal.
Track it instead of guessing
Log weights, feedings, health events and care reminders for free in the keeper tools.
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