Pet owners understand the immense joy animals can bring into our lives. While most U.S. households opt for traditional pets like dogs, cats, fish, and birds, others find fulfillment in more exotic companions. Some individuals delight in adopting and nurturing snakes, ferrets, and reptiles. According to PetsRadar.com, others opt for the more unique pets, including tarantulas, coatimundis, and even chinchillas. Regarding special pets, rabbits often rank at the top of many people’s preferences. Let’s explore why rabbits make excellent companions and explore the essential supplies required to kickstart your rabbit’s life on the right paw. 

Why Choose a Rabbit as a Pet?

According to RabbitCareTips.com, rabbits make sweet, surprisingly intelligent pets. Like cats, they can be litterbox trained, and some can even learn tricks. With all pets, there are pros and cons for those considering a rabbit as their next pet.

Positives of Rabbit Ownership:

  • Rabbits are very quiet and don’t part or meow like cats. While they do make soft, purring sounds, they are great apartment dwellers as they won’t wake up other residents.
  • They don’t need much space if they have a nice pen to consider home. Companies like Clearly Loved Pets (https://clearlylovedpets.com/) make wonderful pet pens that give your rabbit plenty of space and a safe environment.
  • Rabbits need daily exercise and enjoy getting out of their crate and scampering through the house or running after little ones.
  • Like other pets, rabbits develop a special bond with their owners. Wild rabbits are often afraid of people, but domestic rabbits will enjoy time with those caring for them. They may greet you when you arrive home and nudge you for pets.
  • Rabbits can learn tricks and can be trained much like dogs. With a steady supply of treats for reinforcement, you can teach them various tricks. These experiences not only offer stimulation but are also greatly enjoyed by rabbits.
  • There are over 300 breeds of rabbits, and there are many varieties.

Negatives of Rabbit Ownership:

  • Rabbits like to chew and scratch. Their teeth and claws are always growing and need something to chew on to grind them down, or they will grow too big. Unless you provide safe items to chew and scratch, they might chew and scratch on carpets, electric wires, and other items, which may be dangerous.
  • One potential downside of adopting a rabbit is the cost involved. While the initial purchase price is often around $100, additional adoption fees may apply, especially considering the specific breed and age of the rabbit. 
  • Aside from the rabbit itself, essential items like a spacious pen or covered run (for outdoor access), food, bowls, a litter box, grooming tools such as a brush and clippers, and cleaning supplies are immediate necessities to procure.
  • Rabbits eat food pellets, fresh vegetables, hay, and treats, which can add to grocery costs.
  • Just like a dog or cat, they also need regular veterinary care.
  • They also poop a lot, so you will need to keep them penned or be ready with a pooper-scooper.

Is a Rabbit the Best Pet for You?

When you know what is expected of a rabbit parent, you should be ready to adopt a rabbit. According to PetKeen.com, about three million pet rabbits are in the U.S., highlighting their popularity as cherished companions among households. If you have the right supplies to welcome your pet rabbit home, you may find yourself among the many pet rabbit lovers.