Rabbits fed a suitable diet and kept in a healthy environment can live as long as 10 to 12 years. The most common diseases of rabbits include digestive system problems, respiratory infections, and skin disorders. These and other medical problems are discussed in this section. Some of these diseases can also be passed from rabbits to people ( see Diseases that can be Spread from Rabbits to People).
Rabbit breeds of medium to large size are sexually mature at 4 to 4.5 months, giant breeds at 6 to 9 months, and small breeds (such as the Polish Dwarf and Dutch) at 3.5 to 4 months of age. The release of eggs in female rabbits is triggered by sexual intercourse, not by a cycle of hormones as in humans. The rabbit has a cycle of mating receptivity; rabbits are receptive to mating about 14 of every 16 days. A doe is most receptive when the vagina is red and moist. Doe
Rabbits should receive annual health checkups. Veterinarians may examine rabbits using techniques similar to those used for dogs and cats. Veterinarians typically examine the mouth to evaluate dental health. Gender can be determined by examining the rabbit’s genitals for a slit-like vulva (opening to the vagina) in females or a penis in males. Sometimes this difference can be very hard to appreciate, especially in very young rabbits. Males’ testicles become apparent
Before you bring your rabbit home, you will need to prepare suitable housing, select a proper diet, and plan for your pet’s exercise needs.
Caring for Your Rabbit
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Buying Your First Rabbit
Questions to consider when buying a rabbit:
Do you have a suitable location for a rabbit cage (indoors) or hutch (outdoors)?
Who will be the main caregiver for the rabbit? A young child, an older child, or an adult?
If a rabbit is not picked up or held properly, its back can possibly break. Therefore, rabbits may be more suitable as pets for older teens and adults than for young children. Rabbits should be held gently but firmly against your body, with one hand under their back legs to support their backs and the other hand under their chest. Never hold or pick up a rabbit by its ears.
Rabbits may be housed inside or out. However, rabbits are sensitive to he
Rabbits are small, furry mammals with long ears, short fluffy tails, and strong, large hind legs. They have 2 pairs of sharp incisors (front teeth), one pair on top and one pair on the bottom. They also have 2 peg teeth behind the top incisors. Their teeth are specifically adapted for gnawing and grow continuously throughout their lives.
Breeds of Rabbits