Should I Buy a Bunny for Easter?

There are lots of fun things to do around Easter – painting, arts and crafts, and egg hunts. But one popular activity that one should seriously take proper time to think about is purchasing a rabbit.

It is often a short-sighted, problematic stunt. And it fuels the egregiously cruel pet trade, in which pet stores get their animals from breeding mills that don't treat them well. They plan for the influx of interest in rabbits this time of year. Let's look at things that one should heavily contemplate before following through with a purchase.

1. They Can Live Up to 12 Years

Rabbits are soft, lovable pets that can be trained and provide much-needed cuddles. However, they do require a moderate amount of care and proper feeding to live long, healthy lives.

The lifespan of domestic rabbits can vary depending on a variety of factors, including genetics and diet. Generally speaking, pet bunnies can live up to 12 years. That is a commitment for sure.

The lifespan of a pet rabbit is determined by many factors, including their genetics, the owner's level of education on rabbit care and how well they are cared for. Getting your rabbit spayed or neutered can increase their lifespan, as can ensuring they are regularly checked for health issues.

2. They Can Reproduce

The rabbit has been linked to fertility and the cycle of life since ancient times. Its prolific breeding is said to have ushered in the spring, a traditional symbol of renewal and good luck.

Rabbits can reproduce as early as 4 months of age and can produce a litter of up to 12 young each time. Males will also mate with different females each year, which increases the number of offspring born.

Reproductive ability is a critical factor for rabbit welfare and survival. It is important to spay or neuter your rabbit before they reach sexual maturity. If not, they may breed within their family and the herd can become out of control. It is also a good idea to keep the herd confined to a small area or run.

3. They Can Be Expensive

Rabbits are not cheap animals, and they have a number of needs that you need to account for. The cost of a rabbit is not confined to the initial purchase, there are ongoing costs for vet visits and equipment.

For starters, rabbits require a secure habitat to keep them safe from predators. This can be a free-roam pen or an indoor hutch.

But it can also cost money to buy accessories for your bunny. Some of these things include exercise pens, food and water bowls, nail clippers and hairbrushes. These things need to be part of the pet owner's budget.

4. They Can Be Fearful

A rabbit is a timid and wary animal, and they can be fearful of things that scare them. This is because they are prey animals, and their instincts are to run away when they feel threatened.

This is why it’s so important to keep the rabbit’s environment as calm and quiet as possible. Rabbits can be easily startled by loud noises, such as a sheet billowing in the wind or a hutch cover flapping in the breeze, so try to avoid making any sounds that could scare them.

They may also thump their back feet on the floor if they are worried or scared of something. This is their way of alerting other rabbits that there’s danger around.

5. They Can Be Unsocial

If your bunny does not like you, it can be hard to get them to come around. They may run away when you approach, give you the cold shoulder, growl at you, or even bite you when you try to pet them.

You can help them to feel more comfortable around you by creating a quiet place where they can interact with you without fear of loud noises or scary situations. You can also help them to understand that they should listen to 'No' when you tell them not to do something they are doing wrong.

You can also teach your children about the importance of responsibility by having them help with a rabbit. This will help them understand the difference between being selfish and being responsible.

If you have taken all points of ownership into consideration and still believe it is a good fit for your family, then by all means you should move forward and welcome your new hoppy friend into your fold.

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