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Writer's pictureAlana Lambert

Owning a Rabbit: Expectation vs. Reality

Updated: Feb 26, 2023


a black bunny inside its tunnel

If you are planning on owning a bunny or if you're a new bunny owner, this is for you!


Further reading this blog will teach you to properly care for your bunny.


Expectation vs. Reality of Having a Rabbit


Playtime: How to Bond With Your Bunny?


Expectation: Rabbits would love to play with you for an unlimited time.


Reality: Rabbits can play longer hours a day but they also need a break. Water and snacks are their favorite part of the break. You can do so many fun activities with your rabbit, but there is always a limitation.


Grooming: How Often Should You Brush Your Bunny?


Expectation: Rabbits can groom themselves, so they don't need help.


Reality: Rabbits shed their fur in various ways. Some rabbits can fully shed coat for a few days, while some rabbits take weeks to completely shed old fur. How often should you brush a rabbit? Brush your rabbit depending on their shedding season, ranging from once a day to once a week to prevent matted rabbit fur.


Fluffier rabbit breeds like Lionhead and Angora rabbits may need grooming daily year-round.


Tricks: Can You Train a Rabbit?


Expectation: Rabbits can't do tricks like dogs and other pets.


Reality: Some people are motivated to do things when thinking about the reward. The same situation is true with rabbits. They're driven by motivation also. They can learn tricks when you do positive reinforcement, like giving them treats when they're doing great. They could learn multiple tricks like Bini The Bunny by repeating the process.


Maintenance: Are Pet Rabbits High-Maintenance?


Expectation: Rabbits are low-maintenance pets.


Reality: Some may say that rabbits are low-maintenance pets because they only need hay to survive. If we look at all the aspects of bunny life, they're high-maintenance pets. Why? Rabbits also need regular check-ups, quality food, and toys like other household pets.


Aside from that, they need time and attention from you. Although, some bunnies prefer alone time for a few hours. Don't overthink about having a high-maintenance bunny. It's rewarding because they're cute!


Health: Rabbit Vaccination


Expectation: Rabbits are okay without vaccines as long as they live in a healthy environment.


Reality: Yes, it's great to have the bunnies live in a healthy environment, but there are always diseases. Vaccines are vital for their overall health to fight deadly diseases such as Rabbit (Viral) Haemorrhagic Disease and Myxomatosis.


Disclaimer: We are not professional veterinarians or medical doctors. We created this blog based on our experiences with pet rabbits. We volunteered hours in the rabbit shelter, did extensive pet product research, and asked experienced peers. The purpose of this blog is to provide information about properly taking care of rabbits. Please know that it is still best to visit the vet regularly. For medical emergencies, contact a rabbit-savvy vet. Always observe your rabbits around new products or environmental changes.


Litter Training: Can Rabbits Be Litter-Trained?


Expectation: It will take months before a rabbit learns how to use the litter box.


Reality: Litter training a rabbit is easy when you know the right way. Understanding your rabbit's personality can help you figure out how to litter train it, like observing its favorite spot and how often it goes there. In that way, you will know where to place the litter box.


Rabbits as Pets


These are the expectations and realities of owning a bunny. And there is more of it that you will slowly discover. They make good pets, we always say, and it's true! And if you're a new bunny owner, you might be experiencing these things right now.


As the bunny life chooses you, we got you some helpful blogs and tips on taking care of your bunny!


Visit HoppScotch.bun today!


Other Bunny Blogs by HoppScotch.bun:



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