When I first started learning about bunny care 101, I made nearly every mistake in the book. I thought rabbits were “low maintenance” pets, just give them carrots like Bugs Bunny, a cage, and some cuddles. Oh boy, was I wrong. My first rabbit, Daisy, quickly taught me that it’s not easy being a bunny, and it’s not easy being a bunny parent either (at least not in the beginning).
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve either just brought home a fluffy bundle of ears and whiskers or you’re about to. First of all, congratulations! Owning a bunny is one of the most rewarding experiences, but it’s also full of surprises that most people don’t expect.
That’s why I wrote this Bunny Beginner Guide. Whether you’re a complete newbie or someone who has had rabbits before, this guide will walk you through everything: from housing and diet, to bonding, grooming, newborn care, and even the little quirks that make bunnies so lovable (and sometimes mischievous).
By the end, you’ll have a practical rabbit care sheet, a clear understanding of bunny essentials, and the confidence to raise a happy, healthy rabbit.
Why Bunny Care 101 Matters (and Why Most Owners Get It Wrong)
Rabbits aren’t just “small cats” or “quiet dogs.” They’re prey animals with unique needs. That means they hide their illnesses, need mental stimulation, and thrive when treated with respect and patience.
Here’s the tough truth: 73% of first-time rabbit owners underestimate the care required, which often leads to unhappy bunnies, health problems, and sadly, rehoming.
But don’t worry, you won’t be one of those owners. You’re here, doing your homework. And that already puts you ahead.
Bunny Essentials: Setting Up the Perfect Home
1. Cage vs Free Roam
Forget tiny pet store cages. A rabbit needs space, at least 3-4 times its body length in every direction. Ideally, free roam in a bunny-proofed room is best.
- Minimum pen size: 4×4 feet
- Flooring: Avoid wire (it hurts their feet). Use mats, rugs, or fleece.
- Hideouts: Rabbits need a place to feel safe, like a cardboard box or tunnel.
Think of it this way: would you enjoy living your life in a bathroom-sized room? Probably not. Neither does your bunny.
2. Litter Training
Good news: rabbits can be litter trained! Place a litter box (with paper-based litter, not clay or clumping cat litter) in the corner they naturally choose. Add hay near or inside the box, rabbits love munching while doing their business. If you haven’t read our How to litter train a rabbit , now’s the time, it’s packed with tips that actually work.
3. Bunny-Proofing Your House
Rabbits chew. A lot. Wires, furniture, shoes, nothing is safe. Protect your bunny (and your belongings) by:
- Covering wires with cord protectors
- Blocking access behind furniture
- Providing safe chew toys
Protect your home and your rabbit with our comprehensive guide on How to Rabbit Proof Your Home, a must-read for every rabbit owner.
Rabbit Diet: More Than Just Carrots
Forget cartoons, carrots are a treat, not a staple. Here’s the real rabbit care sheet for diet:
- Hay (80%): Unlimited fresh timothy, orchard, or meadow hay. Keeps teeth and digestion healthy.
- Fresh Veggies (15%): Leafy greens like romaine, cilantro, parsley, kale (in moderation).
- Pellets (5%): High-fiber, plain pellets (no colorful mixes).
- Treats: Occasional fruit (apple slices, banana, berries).
Pro Tip: If you want to avoid expensive vet bills, invest in quality hay. Dental problems are the #1 issue for pet rabbits, and hay prevents them. Feeding your rabbit right is easier than you think. Rabbit Food 101 covers the essentials to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
How to Take Care of Newborn Rabbits
This is where many beginners panic, and understandably so. How to take care of newborn rabbits isn’t as simple as feeding them milk.
- Mother Knows Best: If the mother is present, let her handle feeding. She usually nurses only once or twice a day.
- Keep Them Warm: Nesting material and soft bedding are crucial.
- Handling: Avoid too much human contact in the first two weeks.
- Emergency Feeding: If the mother rejects them, consult a rabbit-savvy vet before trying formula.
Raising newborn bunnies without their mom is extremely difficult. Always seek professional guidance and do some research first. Wondering what and when to feed your baby bunny? Don’t miss this essential Baby Bunny Food Chart, crafted for healthy, happy hoppers.
Owning a Bunny: What No One Tells You
Here’s the part most “cute bunny” Instagram posts don’t show you:
- Rabbits live 8–12 years (that’s a long commitment).
- They’re most active at dawn and dusk.
- They need vet care from exotic animal specialists (not all vets are rabbit experts).
- They can get depressed if left alone for long hours.
Owning a bunny is a mix of joy, fur, chewed furniture, and unconditional love. If you’re up for it, you’ll never regret it. Rabbits aren’t just cute, they’re a commitment. Read this before getting a rabbit to make sure you’re truly ready.
Common Bunny Problems (And How to Solve Them)
Alright, let’s be honest. As much as bunnies are the definition of adorable fluff, they can also be tiny agents of chaos. Owning a bunny is fun, but it’s definitely not always easy (yes, It’s Not Easy Being a Bunny is not just a phrase, it’s reality for many new owners). This section of our Bunny Beginner Guide will help you tackle the most common problems people face in Bunny Care 101.
1. Chewing Furniture (a.k.a. “The Bunny Remodeling Service” )
If you’ve ever left your bunny unattended for even two minutes and returned to find your baseboard looking like Swiss cheese, you’re not alone. Chewing is completely natural for rabbits since their teeth never stop growing. But your couch leg is not the solution.
What to do:
- Provide proper chew toys: Wooden blocks, untreated wicker baskets, cardboard boxes.
- Apple sticks: Rabbits love them, and they’re safe for chewing.
- Rotate toys often: Just like kids, bunnies get bored of the same toy.
- Bunny-proof your home: Use furniture guards, hide wires with tubing, and block off areas you don’t want them in.
Pro tip: Think of your bunny like a toddler, if you don’t want it destroyed, keep it out of reach.
2. Not Eating (Emergency Alert)
This is not just a quirky bunny mood swing, it could mean something serious. If your rabbit suddenly stops eating, it could be GI stasis, a condition where their digestive system slows down or stops. And trust me, this is an emergency.
What to do:
- If your rabbit hasn’t eaten for 8–12 hours, call your vet immediately.
- Encourage them to eat hay or fresh greens if they’ll take it.
- Keep water available at all times.
- Do not try random home remedies, veterinary care is crucial here.
Remember: A rabbit not eating is like a fish not swimming. It’s not normal. If your bunny’s appetite suddenly vanishes, Why Did My Rabbit Stop Eating is the guide every rabbit owner needs to read, before it’s too late.
3. Aggression (When Your Bunny Turns into a Tiny Boxer)
Yes, even that cute fluffball can sometimes lunge, nip, or box you. Aggression in bunnies is often hormone-driven, especially in unneutered males or females.
What to do:
- Spay/neuter your bunny: This solves most aggression issues.
- Respect their space: Rabbits don’t like being picked up or forced into handling.
- Learn bunny body language: Flattened ears, growling, or lunging = back off for now.
- Offer treats and patience: Build trust slowly; don’t rush it.
Think of it this way, your bunny isn’t “mean,” they’re just trying to tell you, “Hey, human, I need some space!” Rabbits may be quiet, but their loyalty runs deep. Do Rabbits Protect Their Owners explores the subtle ways they show care and defense.
4. Spraying Urine (The Bunny’s Way of Interior Decorating)
If your bunny is spraying walls, furniture, or worse, don’t panic. This behavior is usually hormonal and can be managed.
What to do:
- Neutering usually solves this: Most rabbits stop spraying once fixed.
- Litter training: Provide enough litter boxes (at least one per bunny + one extra).
- Clean thoroughly: Use vinegar solution to remove the scent, so they don’t spray the same spot again.
- Territory issues: If you have multiple rabbits, spraying is often a way of marking territory.
Quick reminder: In Bunny Care 101, litter training is not optional, it’s a lifesaver. Think rabbits don’t need baths? Think again, Washing a Rabbit explains when it’s necessary and how to do it safely without stressing your pet.
Bunny Care 101 Troubleshooting
Even after reading every Bunny Beginner Guide online, real-life bunny parenting brings challenges. Here are the most common issues beginners face and how to solve them effectively.
1. My rabbit won’t use the litter box
Problem: Your bunny leaves droppings everywhere.
Solution:
- Clean the litter box daily so it stays fresh.
- Add hay inside or near the box, rabbits like to eat while using it.
- Reward your rabbit when it uses the box correctly.
- Start with a smaller space until they learn proper litter habits.
Litter training is a vital part of Bunny Care 101; it makes owning a bunny easier and keeps your home cleaner. Before you give up on litter training, read How to Train a Rabbit to Use a Litter Box, it’s packed with practical tips that actually work.
2. My bunny bites me
Problem: Your rabbit nips or bites during play or handling.
Solution:
- Never punish, rabbits do not understand discipline like dogs.
- Learn their body language, nipping can mean “stop,” “move,” or “pay attention.”
- Offer safe chew toys to redirect the habit.
- If aggression continues, spaying or neutering usually solves the problem.
Biting is often a form of communication, not a sign of cruelty. Rabbits are sensitive creatures, and trust takes time. If Your Rabbit Doesn’t Trust You, Read This offers gentle, proven techniques to strengthen your connection.
3. My rabbit stopped eating pellets
Problem: Your bunny ignores pellets suddenly.
Solution: This is normal as long as your rabbit eats plenty of hay. Pellets are a supplement, not the main diet. A healthy rabbit diet looks like this:
- 80 to 85 percent hay
- 10 to 15 percent leafy greens
- 5 percent pellets and safe treats
The golden rule: the more hay they eat, the healthier they stay.
Advanced Bunny Care Tips
Once you master Bunny Care 101 basics, here are a few advanced tips that make a huge difference in caring for bunnies long term.
• Bonding
If you want to keep two rabbits, introduce them slowly in neutral territory. Rabbits are territorial, so patience is key. Always supervise bonding sessions. Trust isn’t instant, especially with shy rabbits. How to Bond with a Shy Rabbit shows you how to build it slowly, with kindness and care. Want a deeper connection with your bunny? Your Guide to Rabbit Body Language reveals the subtle cues that show trust, fear, and affection.
• Seasonal Care
Rabbits do not handle heat well. Keep the temperature below 26°C. In summer, provide frozen water bottles in their space to cool them. In winter, make sure their shelter is draft-free but still well ventilated.
• Exercise
Bunnies need more than just a cage. Aim for at least 3 to 4 hours of safe playtime outside the pen every day.
• Mental Stimulation
Rotate toys weekly, provide dig boxes, and even create small obstacle courses. Mental exercise prevents boredom and destructive behavior.
Conclusion: Your Bunny Care Journey Starts Here
Caring for a rabbit isn’t just about keeping them fed and safe, it’s about creating a life where your bunny can thrive, not just survive. From litter training and chewing solutions to bonding, exercise, and advanced seasonal care, you now have a solid Bunny Care 101 foundation.
But remember, rabbit care is not “one and done.” It’s a journey. Your bunny will grow, change, and surprise you along the way. What worked last month may need tweaking next season. And that’s perfectly normal, because just like us, rabbits have personalities, moods, and unique needs.
Here’s the most important takeaway: your rabbit depends entirely on you. The love, patience, and time you invest today will give you years of trust, companionship, and joy tomorrow. I’ve seen it firsthand with my own rabbits, the moment they flop on their side in total relaxation, or dash across the room in a binky, you’ll know it’s all worth it. At Rabitz, our mission is simple: to be your trusted partner in rabbit care. Whether you’re searching for answers about diet, housing, health, or bonding, you’ll find step-by-step guides, personal experiences, and experience-based advice that make bunny parenting easier and more rewarding.
FAQs: Bunny Care
Here are answers to the most common questions new owners ask.
1. How do I know if my rabbit is happy?
Happy rabbits show it through “binkies” (joyful jumps), relaxed flops on their side, and curiosity.
2. Can rabbits live outside?
They can but indoors is safer. Outdoor rabbits face risks from predators, extreme heat, and cold.
3. Do rabbits need baths?
No. Rabbits groom themselves. A full bath is dangerous for them. Only spot clean with a damp cloth if needed.
4. Can kids take care of rabbits alone?
No. Rabbits require adult supervision. Children can help, but the responsibility falls on adults.
5. How long do rabbits live?
With proper care, most domestic rabbits live 8 to 12 years.
6. Do rabbits need vaccines?
Yes, but it depends on where you live. In countries such as the UK and parts of Europe, rabbits are typically vaccinated against Myxomatosis and Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) to prevent deadly outbreaks. In the USA, vaccines are less common but are becoming available in certain states due to rising cases of RHDV2. Suppose you are from India, like me, or other regions. In that case, vaccines may not be widely available, so preventive care, hygiene, and regular vet check-ups become even more important. Always consult a local rabbit-savvy vet to know what’s required in your area.
7. Can I keep a single rabbit?
Yes, but they require plenty of human interaction and stimulation. Rabbits are social animals, and many thrive with another rabbit companion.
8. What foods are unsafe for rabbits?
Avoid iceberg lettuce, beans, peas, corn, potatoes, onions, chocolate, and anything processed. Stick to hay, leafy greens, and rabbit-safe veggies.
9. How often should I take my rabbit to the vet?
At least once a year for a health check, or immediately if you notice changes in appetite, droppings, or behavior.
10. Do rabbits chew wires and furniture?
Yes, chewing is natural. Provide safe chew toys and block access to wires and valuable furniture to prevent accidents.
Related Resources to Understand Rabbit Behavior
Want to create the perfect life for your dreaming bunny? Check out these essential guides.
- Symptoms of a Sick Rabbit That Could Save Your Rabbit’s Life– Learn the 10 critical symptoms of a sick rabbit every owner must know.
- Do Rabbits Protect Their Owners? – Discover whether rabbits protect their owners, show loyalty, or form deep bonds.
- Fascinating Rabbit Facts – Discover 10 Mind-Blowing Rabbit Facts you won’t believe!
- Ready to Become a Bunny Care Pro? Download the Bunny Care 101 Guide and Start Your Journey Today!
