Curious about rabbit facts?
Whether you’re considering a pet rabbit or just fascinated by these fluffy creatures, this all inclusive guide from us here at HayDay covers 20 must-know facts about rabbits, their highly important specific diet, fun behaviour, and lovable unique traits.
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Key Takeaways
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Rabbits require a diet that is 80% to 90% premium hay to help support their dental, digestive and gut health
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Foraging is vital for rabbits, keeping them enriched and preventing boredom; you should hide food or use toys to mimic how rabbits would search for food in the wild.
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Rabbits are social animals that thrive on companionship so having two+ rabbits is recommended. Plus regular interaction is key to their happiness.
Rabbits' Diet Should Be Mostly Hay
A rabbit’s diet plays a crucial role in its physical health and happiness. Unlike the common misconception that rabbits thrive on a diet of vegetables and pellets, their primary food source should be hay, pellets and leafy greens.
Approximately 80% to 90% of a rabbit’s diet should include hay which is high in fibre, essential for dental health and digestive function. Chewing hay helps naturally wear down a rabbit’s continuously growing teeth, preventing common dental issues such as overgrown teeth or dental disease.
Besides hay, rabbits thrive on a varied diet of pellets, fresh vegetables and herbs, which provide mental stimulation and a balanced nutrient intake. Occasional treats such as different types of fruit should never replace hay, and should be fed in addition as an occasional treat due to their high sugar content.
Rabbits Prefer Foraging
Rabbits have an innate desire to forage for their food. Foraging is not just about feeding and eating food but also engaging meaningfully with their environment.
Foraging in the wild, would expose rabbits to various tastes and textures, crucial for mental stimulation and overall wellbeing. Which is why it is important that we replicate this inside our homes! Create foraging opportunities by feeding hay within hay rollers or racks. This practice mimics the challenges they would face in the wild and keeps them physically and mentally fit.
Foraging also keeps rabbits active and mentally stimulated. Offering foraging opportunities can reduce boredom, encourage exercise and prevent behavioural issues in rabbits.
Rabbits Should Avoid Carrots as a Staple Food
Carrots are often depicted as a rabbit’s favourite food in popular culture, but this is more of a myth than a reality. While it’s true that rabbits enjoy carrots, these should not form the bulk of their diet.
Carrots contain a proportion of sugar and can be difficult for rabbits to digest if consumed in large quantities.
Instead, carrots should be considered an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple. A rabbit’s diet should primarily consist of high-fibre foods like Timothy Hay and Meadow Hay, which promote healthy digestion and prevent dental issues.
Rabbits Eat Their Droppings
Yes, it's true... rabbits eat their own droppings! Which, we know, might sound strange.
Known as coprophagy, this practice is essential for their health. Rabbits produce two types of droppings: hard faecal pellets and softer, nutrient-rich cecotropes.
Cecotropes are re-ingested by rabbits to maximise the absorption of nutrients from their diet. Which in turn allows rabbits to extract the maximum nutritional value from their food.
If you notice your rabbit frequently leaving cecotropes uneaten, it might be a sign of health issues, and you should consult a vet.
Rabbits Need Exotic Vets
Rabbits need specialised vets who know all about small pets and are familiar with their specific health requirements. Regular check-ups are vital for monitoring a rabbit’s overall well-being.
Baby Rabbits Are Called Kittens
Did you know that baby rabbits are referred to as kittens? They are also commonly known as kits.
These tiny bundles are born hairless with sealed eyes and ears. A mother rabbit, or doe, can have up to nine babies in a single litter.
Kittens start eating solid food and exploring their surroundings at about three weeks old. By six to eight weeks old, they are weaned and ready to be separated from their mother.
These early stages are critical for development, requiring careful attention from the mother rabbit and human caregivers.
(All of this needs fact checking)All fine
Rabbits' Teeth Never Stop Growing
Rabbits’ teeth are extraordinary —they never stop growing. Continuous growth means rabbits must chew constantly to wear down their teeth and prevent overgrowth.
On average, a rabbit’s incisors grow about 2 to 3 mm per week, while their molars grow around 2 to 3 mm per month.
A diet rich in fibre (found in hay) is crucial for dental health. Chewing hay helps wear down teeth and promotes digestive health.
Rabbits Are Crepuscular
Rabbits are crepuscular creatures. This means they are most active during the dawn and dusk hours. This behaviour, in the wild, helps them avoid predators and extreme temperatures.
You’ll notice your rabbit is more energetic and playful during these times, making it ideal for interactive play and feeding.
Rabbits Are Social Creatures
Rabbits are social creatures! They thrive on companionship, whether with other rabbits or human caregivers.
Isolation can lead to sadness and depression in rabbits, so social interactions are vital. A happy rabbit is often one that has a friend to share its life with.
A neutered male and female pairing typically prevents aggression and unwanted breeding. Introduce two rabbits gradually, over a long period of time, to ensure they bond well.
Social interactions enhance emotional well-being and overall health, making rabbits more playful and content.
Mother Rabbits and Their Babies
Mother rabbits, or does, exhibit unique and fascinating behaviours when raising their young. A doe can give birth to a litter of 1 to 15 babies, with an average of seven. (Need to find exact figure, earlier in the blog it says 9)- Agreed - this varies depending on breed - 4 to 6 kits is more typical as an average, but smaller breeds, like Dwarfs, may have fewer kits (2–4), and larger breeds, larger litters (6–12)
Despite their many offspring, mother rabbits nurse their kits for only a few minutes each day.
In the early days, kits must stay with their mother for proper weaning and development. Understanding these behaviours ensures proper care and environment for the mother and her babies.
Rabbits Have Unique Personalities
Rabbits have unique personalities, just like humans. Some rabbits are playful and adventurous, while others are more reserved and shy.
Rabbits show affection by sitting close, climbing on you, or gently nibbling your clothes. Smaller breeds tend to be more energetic compared to larger ones. Recognising and appreciating these personalities can deepen your bond with your pet rabbit.
Happy Rabbits Purr
Happy rabbits purr, did you know that? Yes, like cats, rabbits produce a purring sound when content and relaxed.
This purring is the sound of their teeth softly chattering, indicating a state of bliss. These sounds express their contentment and can be incredibly rewarding to hear!
Rabbits Binky When Excited
Seeing a rabbit perform a binky is one of the most joyful sights for any rabbit owner. A binky is a playful leap and twist in the air, showing extreme happiness and excitement.
A binky is a clear sign of a rabbit feeling particularly joyful and energetic. This behaviour is a great indication of their happiness and well-being.
Rabbits Require Space
Plenty of space is needed for rabbits to hop, jump, and explore. The minimum recommended living space for two average-sized rabbits is (at minimum) 3m x 2m, and 1m high.
A confined rabbit can develop health issues like skeletal problems and obesity. Providing a spacious environment with enrichment items like tunnels and hiding spots keeps indoor and outdoor rabbits active and engaged.
Rabbits Can Be Litter Trained
Rabbits can be litter trained, believe it or not!
A litter box placed with their hay at easy access can encourage use, as placing the litter box in a corner where rabbits tend to do their business helps them adapt quickly!
Regular cleaning of the litter box is essential.
Rabbits Use Scent Glands to Mark Territory
Rabbits use scent glands under their chin to mark territory. Rubbing their chin on objects leaves a scent that defines their space and belongings.
This behaviour is a natural way to communicate and establish their environment.
Rabbits Have Excellent Vision
Rabbits have a remarkable vision system, allowing them to see nearly 360 degrees around.
This wide field of vision helps detect predators from almost any direction, providing a survival advantage in the wild. However, this extensive peripheral vision comes with two blind spots—one right in front of their nose and the other directly under their chin.
Despite these blind spots, rabbits are highly sensitive to movement due to their excellent vision.
This sensitivity is vital for their survival as prey animals, allowing quick reactions to potential threats.
Rabbits Are Clean Animals
Rabbits are naturally clean animals, spending a lot of time grooming themselves.
Regular grooming keeps their fur in good condition and prevents health issues like hairballs.
Supporting their grooming habits by brushing your rabbit regularly, especially during shedding seasons, is important.
Maintaining a clean living environment is crucial for your rabbit’s health.
Any unusual mess, such as poo around their bottom, might indicate health issues. You should always consult a vet.
Rabbits Are Prey Animals
Rabbits are prey animals, which means they are naturally alert and cautious. In the wild, they face threats from predators like birds of prey and foxes.
This constant vigilance makes them highly sensitive to their environment, always ready to flee at the first sign of danger, as they are a common prey species.
To help your pet rabbit feel secure, it’s important to provide hiding places where they can retreat to when they feel threatened.
Gentle handling is essential when trying to build trust with your pet rabbit, as they instinctively fear being lifted due to their prey nature.
Summary
Rabbits are fascinating creatures with unique needs and behaviours that make them special companions.
From their diet, which should be mostly hay, to their social nature and crepuscular activity patterns, understanding these aspects can greatly enhance your relationship with your pet rabbit.
Providing the right care, such as regular veterinary check-ups and ample space for exercise, ensures they lead a happy and healthy life.
Whether you are a new rabbit owner or an experienced one, these must-know facts will help you provide the best care for your furry friend, ensuring they thrive in your home.
Relevant Links
How To Check Your Rabbit's Poop
Timothy Hay vs Meadow Hay: The Differences
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should hay be the main component of a rabbit's diet?
Hay should be the main part of your rabbit's diet because it’s essential for their dental health and helps keep their digestive system in check. Aim for hay to make up about 80 to 90% of what they eat, daily!
What does it mean when a rabbit binkies?
When a rabbit binkies, it's a clear sign they're super happy and excited—it's their way of showing joy!
How often should a rabbit visit the vet?
Rabbits should ideally visit the vet at least once a year for check-ups to keep an eye on their dental health and overall well-being. Making this a routine can help catch any potential health issues early!
