Home Pages

News

Search Form:
The Search form in each page in this template is not functional. In order to use it, you need to add script to pages.

Month/Day/Year
You can easily modify this page by selecting the text and replacing it with your own content.

How to Choose the Perfect Rabbit

pg. 2

What should you look for when you are actually picking out your new rabbit

Overall condition

Look at the rabbit(s) in the cage or enclosure, before you even pick him up. How do all of the rabbits look, generally healthy, not too fat or too skinny, coats smooth and clean, eyes clear. This is just an overall impression, you’ll get more specific after you get past this stage and pick up the bunny that you are considering. Look to see how she moves around; you are looking to make sure she doesn’t show signs of lameness, or limping, stiffness or any avoidance of movement. If she seems frightened it may point to the fact that she hasn’t been socialized and that adds something to consider – do you want a bunny you have to work to socialized or that may never socialize enough to like human handling.

Eyes

There should not be any staining around the eyes, dampness (tearing or discharge) If the rabbit isn’t bright eyed then the rabbit may be ill.Nose

Just like with the eyes, if there is a discharge from the nose, or signs of discharge it is most likely a sign that the bunny is sick.

Ears

Again, no discharge, and the ears should be pink not red. If there is damage it could mean that there was a birth defeat or that the rabbit has been fighting. If either of these is true you need move on or to ask more questions. A birth defect would mean you are bringing home a bunny who will have medical needs. If the rabbit has been fighting, you should find out why – is the cage overcrowded, or is the rabbit under any other stress that would case fighting that could change with a change of homes?

Breathing

The rabbit’s breathing should be easy and not labored. When you pick her up you shouldn’t be able to feel or hear a “rattle” in her chest. Put your hands on her chest, if you feel the rattle the bunny is sick.

Coat

It should look well groomed and smooth, no bare patches – it should just look healthy. And make sure you look at her bottom, if there are signs of soil, it means she has diarrhea and is ill.

Personality

What you are looking for here is whether she has been properly socialized or not. How does she react to you and others? When you picked her up was she comfortable with you holding her? Does she like being petted and cuddled?

So, there is a brief look at what you need to look for when choosing a bunny. There is much more to consider when choosing your bunny - For more in-depth, complete information read more

LINK TO ALL OTHER RABBIT ARTICLES

Tame That Wild Thing! has the information you will need to help you in choosing a pet that is right for your family. Check the menu for animal specific information and checklists to help you get ready.