So You Want a Pet Rabbit - Supplies You'll Need

There's no doubt about it - rabbits make wonderful pets. They are loving, curious, not to mention absolutely adorable! Caring for a rabbit isn't very difficult, but any bunny requires daily care and maintenance. For the first time rabbit owner, often one of the most helpful things they can get are a list of supplies. Here's a rundown of the basics that you'll need for your bunny along with a few extras!

Cage

This is a given. A rabbit cage should be large enough so that your bunny's ears do not touch the top and so that they can lay down in any direction. The bigger the better, of course. If the cage has a wire bottom, be sure to supply a solid surface for the bunny to sit on.

Resting Surface

Your bunny will appreciate it if you supply a comfortable place for them to rest. Many pet stores sell straw mats for rabbits to rest on and most rabbits find them rather comfortable.

Litter Box and Scoop

Contrary to what you might think, rabbits are able to be litter box trained. They naturally have a tendency to use the bathroom in one spot anyway, but if they become used to the litter box it will make cleaning much easier for you. It's recommended that you have at least two boxes - one for the cage and one for the room in which your rabbit will be roaming when it gets out for exercise time. If your rabbit will be in more than one room, you may need more than one litter box.

Food Dish and Rabbit Food

Pellets are an essential part of a rabbit's diet. Keep a fresh supply of pellets available in a dish for your rabbit at all times.

Water Bottle

Everyone's gotta get a drink once in a while, even bunnies!

Carrier

A small pet carrier might not seem like something that's essential, but if your rabbit needs to take an emergency trip to the vet you'll be glad you had one. Your rabbit and you will find it much easier than putting him or her in a cardboard box.

Hay and Hay Rack

Timothy hay is the other rabbit diet staple. Make sure your rabbit always has fresh hay and you'll need a hanger or rack of some sort to put it in, too. Most pet stores have a variety of ways in which you can hang a hay rack of some sort in your rabbit's cage.

Brush

Whether you have a long-haired rabbit or not, a brush is important. Rabbits can get hairballs so it's good to get out any extra fur from their coat. Long-haired rabbits need frequent brushing, so keep this in mind.

Toys

Bunnies are intuitive creatures and they need entertainment. It's not only good for them mentally but physically as well. A rabbit's teeth are constantly growing so they need wood chews in order to wear them down. Most pet stores carry a variety of bunny-safe toys. Make sure your bunny has toys both inside and outside its cage. If your rabbit is running about and has nothing to play with, it will "play" with your furniture (i.e. chew it)! You can make common items, such as cardboard boxes, in to bunny toys as well.

Rabbit Book

Whether you're a seasoned rabbit owner or new to rabbit care, having a book on hand is important. It'll have plenty of tips and tricks (including a list similar to this) to help you care for your bunny.

If you're looking for more information on rabbit care, check out the Minnesota Companion Rabbit Society's website at http://mn.companionrabbit.org. They've got plenty of information for first time rabbit owners.

And don't forget - keep your bunny happy by giving him or her a carrot once in a while!