Rabbit Myths

Rabbit Myths: 12 Things People Get Wrong About Bunnies (But Shouldn’t!)

Rabbits are super cute. They hop, they have long ears, and they love carrots, right? Well… not exactly.
Many people believe things about rabbits that are just not true. These rabbit myths can hurt rabbits. If you’re considering getting a bunny or already have one, it’s essential to know the facts.
Let’s break the 12 biggest rabbit myths people believe—and find out what rabbits need to be happy and healthy!

Myth #1: Rabbits Love Carrots the Most

Truth: Rabbits like carrots, but carrots have a lot of sugar. It’s like candy for them.

What to feed instead:

  • Fresh hay (timothy hay is best)
  • Leafy greens like coriander, spinach, and lettuce
Rabbit enjoying healthy food instead of carrot

Rabbit Myths Busted: Just like us, rabbits need healthy food. Carrots are treats, not meals.

Myth #2: Rabbits Don’t Need Grooming

Truth: Rabbits clean themselves, but they still need help.

  • Long-haired rabbits need brushing every 2–3 days.
  • All rabbits need nail trimming and body checks.
Owner brushing a long-haired rabbit

Rabbit Myths Exposed: Grooming helps prevent sickness and keeps your bunny comfy.

Myth #3: Rabbits Are Easy Pets for Kids

Truth: Rabbits do not like being picked up. They feel scared.

Kids often hold rabbits the wrong way, and this can hurt or scare the rabbit.

Better idea: Older kids or adults who stay calm are better for bunnies.

Owner brushing a long-haired rabbit

Rabbit Myths Broken: Rabbits are not toys. They need gentle love and respect.

Myth #4: Rabbits Can Stay in a Cage All Day

Truth: Rabbits need space to move. Imagine staying in a small room forever.

What to do: Let them play outside the cage for 3–5 hours every day.

Bunny Setup

Rabbit Myths Facts: A happy bunny is an active bunny!

Myth #5: Rabbits Are Always Friendly

Truth: Some rabbits are shy. Some are scared. Some may bite if they feel unsafe.

Tip: Spend time slowly. Let them come to you.

Rabbit Myths Warning: Rabbits show love in quiet ways. They need trust, not rushing.

Myth #6: Rabbits Are Not Smart

Truth: Rabbits are super smart! They can:

  • Learn their names
  • Use a litter box
  • Do tricks with training!

Rabbit Myths Crushed: With love and time, rabbits can learn like dogs or cats.

Myth #7: Rabbits Can Be Washed Like Dogs

Truth: Rabbits should never take a full bath. It can scare them and make them sick.

What to do: Use a dry cloth or brush to clean dirt. Only use a wet cloth if very dirty.

Rabbit Myths Alert: Bathing is dangerous. Rabbits clean themselves well.

Myth #8: Rabbits Are Dirty and Smelly

Truth: Rabbits can be very clean.

They use one spot to poop and pee—just like cats with a litter box!

Litter-trained rabbit in clean home

Rabbit Myths Explained: Clean home + clean bunny = no smell!

Myth #9: Rabbits Are Cheap Pets

Truth: Rabbits can cost a lot to care for:

  • Vet visits (especially if sick)
  • Good food and fresh hay
  • Toys and large cages or pens

Rabbit Myths Reality: Rabbits need love and money to live well.

Myth #10: Rabbits Can Live Outside Alone

Truth: Rabbits get scared or sick outside. Dogs, snakes, or bad weather can hurt them.

Better Option: Keep rabbits indoors or in safe outdoor areas.

 Indoor rabbit in safe area with toys

Rabbit Myths Tip: Indoor bunnies live longer and stay safer.

Myth #11: Rabbits Don’t Show Emotions

Truth: Rabbits show feelings in special ways:

  • Thump = scared or upset
  • Binky (happy jump) = joy!
  • Lick = they love you
rabbit is enjoying

Rabbit Myths Debunked: Rabbits feel love, fear, joy, and more.

Myth #12: Rabbits Only Live 2-3 Years

Truth: With good care, rabbits can live 8 to 12 years!

Tip: Adopt a rabbit only if you can care for it for many years.

Long-living bunny with loving owner

Rabbit Myths Answered: Rabbits are not short-term pets—they are family.


Quick Actions for Bunny Beginners: