Beginner's Guide to Rabbit Care: Breeds, Housing & Diet

Rabbits are quiet animals suitable for apartment living since they don't vocalize. With proper environment and diet management, they can live as companions for over 10 years. Start by understanding the basics of rabbit care.

Popular Breed Features

Netherland Dwarf - **Weight**: 0.9-1.1kg (one of the smallest breeds) - **Features**: Round face with short ears. Active and curious - **Ease of care**: Medium (active nature requires exercise space)

Holland Lop - **Weight**: 1.5-2kg - **Features**: Distinctive drooping ears. Gentle and affectionate - **Ease of care**: High (calm temperament, beginner-friendly)

Mini Rex - **Weight**: 1.5-2kg - **Features**: Velvety short coat is appealing - **Ease of care**: High (less grooming needed)

Cage Selection

• Size: At least 3 times the rabbit's body length is ideal
• Material: Metal wire with slatted floor is hygienic
• Height: Tall enough that the rabbit can stand without hitting its head
• Free-roaming time: 1-2 hours daily of supervised room time is needed

Diet Basics

Staple: Hay The most critical food for maintaining digestive health.

• Timothy hay (first cut): Most recommended. Rich in fiber
• Feeding method: Always available in unlimited quantities
• Importance: Without adequate hay, risk of GI stasis and digestive disease increases

Supplementary: Pellets - Twice daily, about 3-5% of body weight - Choose low-calorie, high-fiber varieties - Use growth-formula pellets until 6 months of age

Treats: Vegetables and Fruits - **OK**: Bok choy, Chinese cabbage, parsley, apple (small amounts) - **Avoid**: Onions, leeks (toxic), potato sprouts - **Fruits**: High sugar content, so offer sparingly

Health Care

• Nail trimming: Once or twice monthly (veterinarian can assist)
• Grooming: Daily brushing during shedding season
• Check items: Appetite, droppings condition, tooth growth

Benefits of Buying from Breeders

On Bri-Choku, you can get healthy rabbits from specialist breeders.

• Purebred quality: Pedigreed individuals available
• Health history available: Can verify parent information
• Care consultation: Get direct advice from breeders