2torial #0931:
Learn2 Care for a Pet Rabbit

Get into the rabbit habit

Think rabbits are cute, but too dumb to be fun? Think again. Pet rabbits are as trainable as cats, and as companionable as dogs. And something about their ultra-soft fur, wide eyes, and adorable little tails can soften even the hardest of hearts. In short, bunnies are fast gaining some well-deserved popularity as pets.

But just as cats and dogs have different needs, so do rabbits. We'll help you decide if a pet bunny's right for you, and take you through the basics of rabbit ownership, from housing to feeding to litter box issues.

House rabbits are quiet pets, but they're definitely not effort-free. A clean cage and adequate food, while essential, aren't enough--just as those conditions wouldn't do for a cat or dog. Rabbits:

• Are easily stressed: They need safety and a predictable schedule.

• Are social animals: To be healthy, happy, and truly tame, they need to be part of a herd (even if the herd is just you and your bunny).

• Need room to exercise.

• Are easily litter-box trained, but may have the occasional accident.

• Groom themselves at least as much as cats do.

• Love to chew on things (books, papers, furniture, drapes, electrical wires).

• Love to dig (in the ground or their litter box--or in beds, rugs, and floors).

• Can live for 8 years or more.

Contrary to the popular image, rabbits are not a good match with small children. Little kids can be rough and loud with pets, and rabbits need gentleness and quiet.

So think a bit before you act. If you can't give a bunny plenty of time and attention, or if your home is too chaotic or pristine, a rabbit and you may not thrive together. But if you have time to spend, and can commit to giving a rabbit a good home, you'll likely find yourself head over tail in love.