The Easter Bunny Phenomenon occurs when families think that it would be a cute idea to get their child a pet rabbit for the Easter holiday. In theory, I can see how this would be a good idea, but I cannot recommend its practice unless the family is well aware of just how much work rabbits actually take, and if they would still be willing to care for the bunny after the Easter novelty wears off. Sadly, many families are unaware, and as a result, too many bunnies end up being surrendered to shelters and local parks shortly after the holiday.
I realize that it may be too soon to be discussing Easter-related topics, but this post is mainly to serve as a warning to anybody who wants to get a "low maintenance pet" and believes that a rabbit would fit the bill. However, I am in no way trying to deter anyone from getting one, but with any pet, be it a dog, cat, bird, fish, etc., I believe that research must be done to determine if that animal truly fits one's lifestyle.
So here are some things to consider before sharing your home with a rabbit:
Although rabbits do not need to be taken outside for walks or potty breaks, they cannot be left alone in a cage all day. Like a dog or a cat, rabbits require frequent exercise and human interaction. It is recommended that they spend at least 30 hours a week roaming and running around outside of their cage.
Their cage needs to be at least six times the rabbits' size; it should be large enough to fit its litterbox, toys, and food/water bowls. Additionally, rabbits are particularly picky when it comes to their food. Basic rabbit pellets do not suffice as a nutritious diet; they also require fresh produce and hay. With the start up and annual costs associated with rabbits, they are not particularly cheap to maintain.
In addition to the start up and annual costs, veterinary care for rabbits tends to be more expensive, due to their "exotic" classification. And because they are classified as exotic pets, a veterinarian who specializes in rabbits is needed. These veterinarians tend to be hard to find, so it is advisable to make sure that there is one in your area before purchasing a rabbit. And although they do not need yearly vaccinations like a dog or a cat would, yearly checkups are recommended to make sure that your rabbit is healthy. Because rabbits are prey animals, they do not show signs of illness and discomfort until it is too late.
Rabbits also need extensive grooming maintenance. In order to make sure that they do not ingest too much hair when grooming themselves, they need to be brushed weekly. Their nails need to be clipped every 6-8 weeks to ensure that they do not get caught in various materials, or even ripped out. They also require that their teeth be constantly checked by a veterinarian, to make sure they they are not overgrown.
In addition, households with small children should proceed with caution when it comes to purchasing a rabbit. Not to say that children shouldn't be allowed to have one, but it should be made clear that rabbits are very fragile creatures and will "break" when dropped. In addition, loud noises and sudden movements tend to scare rabbits, which could cause their heart to stop. Parents should be willing to supervise their small children with all rabbit interactions.
Again, the point of this post is not to deter anybody from getting a rabbit. If your lifestyle can handle the care that rabbits need, they can make great pets.
