Is a new baby bunny on the way? Here’s everything you’ll need!
September 21, 2023
As exciting as it is to be bringing home a new baby bunny, it is essential as an owner that you research and start to undertake some care tasks prior to their arrival. Remember to register your baby rabbit with Rowan Vets and book their very first health check so our team can help you give them the best start in life.
Book your rabbit’s first check-up
What to do before bringing a rabbit home
Once your bunny arrives you will need to ensure you provide them with a nutritious diet, accessible fresh water, rabbit enrichment activities, exercise and veterinary care to keep them in tip top condition. Below is a list of things to start doing before your rabbit joins your family.
1) Research rabbit care
Early research can help you make informed decisions on their basic needs. These are housing, diet, enrichment and veterinary care. Our vets and nurses are highly experienced when it comes to rabbit care so make sure to register your new pet with our Preston practice straight away.
2) Making introductions
Deciding early on with your family how you will introduce your new baby bunny will help to reduce stress when the moment actually arrives. As bunnies can be easily overwhelmed, make sure all introductions are slow and calm. As a responsible owner, it is imperative you monitor children when handling your new family pet – rough handling can cause stress and harm to your bunny, plus they might nip someone out of fear.
It’s also wise to plan ahead when it comes to introducing a new bunny to an existing pet rabbit. It is best to let your new addition get settled in first and then introduce them slowly (so long as one of them is neutered) to the ‘OB’ (original bunny). You’ll need to do this through a barrier so that they can’t fight and let them get used to each other over time. You shouldn’t force them to be friends as not all rabbits will get along.
For advice on when is best to neuter a baby rabbit, contact Rowan Vets’ friendly team on 01772 639 800.
3) Create a safe living space for them
Your new baby bunny will need a safe space away from potential hazards. These include (but are not limited to) wiring, toxic plants and other pets. Their housing must also be large enough for water and food dishes, toys, plenty of bedding, a litter box, and room to hop around and explore.
4) Plan their diet
A full and nutritious diet must be followed to ensure your baby bunny consumes all the minerals and vitamins they need. This should be made up of good quality grass hay and a quality junior rabbit food (pellets) with a concentration of approximately 16% protein.
Fresh foods must be introduced slowly; try to stick to similar fresh fruit and vegetables to what your baby bunny’s mother was fed if you can find this out? Once you have registered with Rowan Vets, you can ask our nursing team endless questions on the best rabbit diet!
Register your new rabbit online now so you can book their first vet check.
Once your bunny is home
It is essential to spend time with your baby bunny as soon as they arrive home. This is a big part of building a strong, healthy relationship with your new pet. Provide plenty of opportunities for regular, gentle handling, playtime and cuddles.
Also ensuring they receive their vaccinations and health checks will help to keep them in top condition as they mature. To chat to our rabbit-loving team about your bunny’s first veterinary appointment, contact us on 01772 639 800.
Following Rowan Vets’ above advice will ensure your new arrival will thrive in their new family. Our experienced team of vets and nurses are always here to answer any questions you may have about rabbit ownership so contact us today.
