Rabbit Care and Husbandry

While the Easter Bunnies are hopping around, let's go through a few health and husbandry issues to help keeping your rabbits healthy and happy. 


1. Vaccinations 

Rabbits can be vaccinated against calicivirus at 10 - 12 weeks of age and annually with a booster. 

2. Handling

When handling a rabbit, the hindlegs and spine should be supported because they have very strong hindlegs and they can potentially damage their spine if they suddenly kick out. 

3. Biological facts

i. Weight - 900g to 6kg (depending on breed)

ii. Sexual maturity - 4 -7 months for males and 4 -9 months for females (dwarf breeds younger)

iii. Puberty: ~12 weeks so separate sexes at 10 weeks of age!

iv. Average life span: 6-8 years

4. Housing - the hutch should provide:

- shelter from extremes of temperature, wind and rain

- ventilation to minimize risk of exposure to fleas / mosquitoes

- hide / sleeping area

- run to allow free movement and exposure to natural light

- no wire flooring

- sufficient hay / straw for bedding that is changed regularly

- litter tray / corner for toileting

5. Exercise

- must have daily exercise outside of hutch for at least 4 hours, preferably outdoors with exposure of unfiltered light

6. Nutrition

- grass and hay should be available at all times 

- range of vegetables: leafy green vegetables like spinach leaves, bok choy, broccoli, herbs, sprouts, carrots and lettuce mixes

- fruits are offered occasionally or as a treat

- feed limited quantities, if any, pelleted food

- avoid rabbit mixes