When buying a pet (indoor) rabbit - what does one need to know?

Question

I'd like a Holland lop or Netherland dwarf rabbit - or some other very small breed. I've only found one Holland Lop breeder in my area. Her website lists an email address and she's not responded to my questions as of yet. Searching the humane society locations in my area for the last few weeks has turned up no small rabbit breeds. There's an ad on craigslist for Netherland dwarf rabbits in my area - is that a viable option? I'm looking for recommended books on rabbits, what questions to ask the current owner/breeder, health issues they may be predisposed to, what age they can be spayed/neutered and any information that an experienced owner would deem helpful. Especially 'the negatives' about having a rabbit that you might not hear from someone trying to sell one. Someone mentioned that they can have dental problems that require frequent vet visits. I realize you take a chance with any pet, and you might get one with health issues that you need to deal with. Thanks for the input!

Answer 1

i have a house rabbit so i guess im your girl anyway right....

i would go for the netherland lop but if there arnt many of them then well i have a mini dwarf lop there are loads of them in the pet shops ect they dont grow very big but a little bigger the netherland but they look similer get them in all different colours and they are so easy to train. just put them inside their indoor cage for an hour to get used to thinfs and then put them on the floor leaving the cage door open and they will just hop back in when they need the loo accasionally you get a small accident but nothing major.there are two ingections they recommend for rabbits miximotocis and vhb but if your rabbit will not go outside at all then he doesnt need them only if he is going outside and it will need vhb if it is coming incontact with any other animals but you can phone up your local vet for advise on what to do. you should also check how long your rabbits teeth are if they get too long it can be very uncomfertable and every now and again it will nedd its teeth cliped dont worry though they cant feel it at all. there nails also need to be clipped the vet can do this when you go there for a check up dont try doing it your self. I f you get a boy even if it isnt coming in contact with any female rabbits you may want to nuter it beacause they are known to be less aggresive when they have been done.If you go on the internet and type in on ebay rabbit guide books it will come up with someood books but you dont necercerellly need a book your vet would proberly have free leaflets on how to keep your rabbit healthy.i think rabbits should be at least 8 weeks but you should check that.If you are aa first time rabbit owner the netherland dwarf is a very good option.The vet bills can be very expensive but its well worth it . Have fun with your new rabbit

hope this came in handy.

Answer 2

I run a rabbit sanctuary.  Rabbits are very good pets.  They are a lot like people.  You have some rabbits with a ton of personality, and some without any at all.

I would suggest you contact a local rabbit rescue in your area.  The one good thing about doing that is the rescuer will know the bunny's personality and if you two will be a good fit.

My indoor rabbits are in cages that are about 2 1/2 by 1 1/2 with a drawer that pulls out for easy cleaning.  They also have litter trays in the cages.  Some bunnies like to dig in their litter and you can buy trays with wire across to prevent this.  I do not recommed cages with solid bottoms.  Bunnies can't sit in their pee.  The acid will stain their feet yellow and it burns.  We like Yesterday's News litter.  This is recycled newspaper and does control odor pretty well.

They don't like to be in their cages all the time.  This is their safe area, but they do like to run around and explore.  They are very curious.  Watch wiring and wood trim when they are out and about.

They need their nails trimmed regularly but we don't go to the vet very often.  All of our males are neutered.  Bathing is not really an issue.  They groom themselves.  If you get two, they will help help groom each other.  Two can't share a cage.  They need their own space.

All in all, just remember that your bunny is a little furry being with feelings and needs.  Most of my rescues came from people who thought having a bunny would be like having a stuffed animal come to life.  They are not always cuddly.  They are not always sweet.  But I have 22 total, and we sure love them all.