Before you rescue, do your research to be sure your setup is appropriate for the species you are rescuing. When researching care requirements, it’s always best to cross-reference from more than one source to be sure you’re working with the most up-to-date info, as best practices are always evolving.
Thinking about rescuing rabbits? Consider that…
-rabbits can be a 10+ year commitment.
-spay & neuter is as important for their health as it is for preventing reproduction.
-rabbits require access to hay 24/7.
-while they are small, they can be very destructive.
-exotic vet care can be expensive.
-rabbits should live indoors for their health & safety.
-rabbits require routine vaccinations.
-you will most likely have to do some bunny-proofing.
-rabbits need space to run and hop around!
Diet: Hay should be 80% of a rabbit’s diet with unlimited, 24/7 access. Leafy greens should make up about 10% of their diet, while pellets should make up about 5%. Treats should be under 5%.
Socialization & Enrichment:
-Rabbits are social animals and tend to be happiest in pairs or groups.
-Introducing rabbits to one another takes time; two rabbits should not be put together without first having “dates” to get to know one another and ensure they will get along.
-Rabbits need plenty of rabbit-safe toys to chew on as their teeth never stop growing.
-Create places for them to hop around, hide and feel safe.
Living spaces should:
-be indoors.
-have a minimum of 16 sq. Ft., even overnight.
-not be hutches or cages.
-be rabbit-proofed.
-have rabbit-safe litter boxes.
-have 24/7 access to hay.
Exercise pens are recommended as they are spacious, easy to clean, flexible and cost-effective!
Rabbits are prey animals and left outside are vulnerable to health concerns such as chemical exposure, toxic plants, hypothermia, heat Stroke, coccidia, e. cunniculi, RHDV-2, g.i. stasis, ear infection, fleas. botflies, ear mites, worms and more. They are also susceptible to predators such as dogs, raccoons, foxes, snakes, bobcats and various aerial predators. Additionally, they may suffer from behavior and environmental concerns such as confinement, isolation, neglect, mowers, fireworks, and aerial planes.
Ready to rescue? As with other species, it’s important to avoid purchasing individuals, as this ultimately serves to create more demand and reinforces the notion of animals as objects. To find rabbits in need of rescue, seek out local rabbit rescues, inquire with local animal shelters, search on Petfinder, check “free sites”, Facebook groups, forums, etc. for individuals being rehomed (though this comes at a risk of unknown pregnancy, illnesses, and other areas a typical rescue organization would help navigate).
Additional rabbit resources: Space Coast Bunnies, House Rabbit Society, Open Sanctuary Project, and the Bunny Lady.