10 Things to Consider Before Getting a Rabbit Beginners Rabitz -

Thinking About Getting a Rabbit? Let’s Talk Real Talk!
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve fallen head-over-heels for those adorable, twitchy-nosed creatures we call rabbits. Maybe you saw a fluffy bunny video, or a friend’s rabbit hopped past your feet, and suddenly, you’re picturing one in your own home. The idea of getting a rabbit feels just right, doesn’t it? Like a little bundle of silent joy.

I totally get it. I’ve been there. My first rabbit, a spunky little lop named Daisy, changed my life forever. But here’s the thing: many people think rabbits are just quiet, easy pets – a chill alternative to a dog or cat. Oh, my friend, that’s where the story gets interesting! Rabbits are incredible, unique little beings, and they have some big needs that can surprise new owners.

So, before you jump in and say, “Yes! I’m getting a rabbit!”, let’s sit down and chat. I’m not here to scare you, but to give you the honest truth, wrapped in a lot of love, so you can make the absolute best choice for both you and your future fluffy friend. Ready? Let’s dive into 10 things I wish everyone knew before they brought a bunny home.

1. Getting A Rabbit Is a 10+ Year Commitment

Most people think rabbits live for just a few years. In reality, pet rabbits can live 8 to 12 years with proper care. That’s longer than some dogs!

Ask yourself:

Are you ready for a decade of daily care?
Will your future lifestyle (college, job, marriage) allow it?

Don’t treat a bunny like a temporary pet. They bond deeply with their humans and deserve a lifetime of love.

2. Rabbits Need Lots of Space – Not Just a Cage

One of the biggest mistakes new owners make is putting their rabbit in a small cage all day.

Rabbits:

Need free-roam time to run, binky, and explore.
Get depressed and aggressive when confined too long.
Can be litter-trained like cats (yes, really!).

3. They May Not Like Being Picked Up

Unlike dogs or cats, most rabbits hate being picked up. It makes them feel trapped.

Many new owners get heartbroken when their bunny bites, scratches, or hides.
Here’s the truth:

Rabbits need to build trust slowly.
Cuddles will come with time and patience.

So, if your rabbit doesn’t trust you, read this—you might be asking too much, too soon.

4. Getting A Rabbit Can Be Expensive

They Need Special Doctors (and It Costs More)

This is a big one that surprises many. Rabbits are considered “exotic” pets, which means they need vets who really understand rabbits, not just cats and dogs. These special vets can be harder to find and, yep, often cost more.

Imagine your child getting sick, and you can’t find a doctor who knows how to help them. It’s the same feeling with your bunny. The first time my bunny, Luna, got sick, my heart dropped. Having a trusted veterinarian who knows rabbit anatomy inside and out is priceless. Don’t wait until there’s an emergency; find a rabbit-savvy vet in your area before you even bring a bunny home. Factor these vet costs into your budget from day one of getting a rabbit.

5. Rabbits Are Not Great Pets for Small Kids

Rabbits look like plush toys, but they:

Scare easily
Have fragile spines
Can bite or scratch when mishandled

If your child wants a pet, be prepared to do most of the work yourself.

6. They’re Chewing Ninjas (You’ll Need to Bunny-Proof!

Rabbits chew. On everything. Your phone charger? Tasty. Your favorite chair leg? Delicious. That baseboard? Mm, perfect! This isn’t them being naughty; it’s how they keep their teeth trimmed, and it’s just what bunnies do.

I once left my laptop charger on the floor for five minutes, literally. Came back to find it in two pieces. My rabbit, Shampoo, looked completely innocent

How to protect your stuff (and your bunny):

Cover all exposed wires with hard plastic tubing or hide them away in cord protectors.
Block off areas with precious furniture or electrical outlets.
Give them tons of safe things to chew on: untreated wooden toys, cardboard tubes, hay-based chews.
Making Your Home Safe for Getting a Rabbit
Rabbit-proofing is seriously important, not just for your stuff, but for their safety!

7. Litter Training Takes Patience

Yes, rabbits can be litter trained. But:

It won’t happen overnight
Neutering helps a lot
Accidents are part of the process

Tip: Put hay near their litter box—it encourages them to poop where they eat.

8. Hay, Hay, and More Hay! (Their Food is Special)

This is a game-changer for new owners. When you’re getting a rabbit, you’re entering the world of “hay as a food group.” Their diet is 80% unlimited grass hay (like timothy or orchard hay). This isn’t just snacking food; it’s vital for their teeth and their sensitive tummies. The rest of their diet is fresh leafy greens (think dark lettuces, parsley, cilantro), a tiny bit of high-quality pellets, and just a sprinkle of healthy treats.

Imagine if your toothbrush was also your main food source! That’s kind of how hay works for rabbits. Their teeth grow constantly, and chewing hay keeps them ground down. The first time my rabbit stopped eating, I panicked. It turns out, their whole gut can stop if they don’t get enough hay, which is a scary condition called GI stasis. Always, always, always have fresh hay available. It’s their superfood!