Find Your Perfect Rabbit
Whether you choose to adopt or buy from a reputable breeder, we're here to help you find the right match for your family.
What to Know Before Bringing a Rabbit Home
Rabbits are often misunderstood pets. They are intelligent, social, and can live 10-12 years with proper care. Understanding what rabbit ownership involves helps you decide if a rabbit is the right fit for your household.
Time Commitment
Rabbits need daily attention: fresh hay, feeding, cage cleaning, and at least 3-4 hours of supervised exercise outside their enclosure. They are not low-maintenance pets despite their small size.
Housing Requirements
Rabbits should not live in a cage all day. They need a safe space to run, hop, and explore. This means rabbit-proofing your home or a dedicated exercise area.
Family Compatibility
Rabbits are fragile and can be injured by rough handling, especially by young children. They often do better in calm households where they can be handled gently and respectfully.
Veterinary Care
Exotic or small animal vets are needed for rabbit care. Plan for annual checkups and be prepared for unexpected medical expenses. Spaying and neutering is strongly recommended for health and behavior.
Diet Needs
A rabbit's diet consists primarily of timothy hay, with fresh leafy greens daily and a small amount of pellets. This ongoing cost should fit comfortably in your budget.
Safety Considerations
Rabbits chew everything. Electrical cords, toxic plants, and small spaces they can get stuck in are all hazards to consider before bringing one home.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- Am I home enough to give my rabbit daily attention and exercise?
- Does my household have the space for a rabbit to roam safely?
- Are all family members comfortable around small animals?
- Can I afford ongoing costs: food, bedding, and veterinary care?
- Am I prepared for a 10-12 year commitment?
- Who will care for my rabbit during vacations or emergencies?
Ready to learn more? Start with our Getting Started Guide to understand rabbit care basics before making your decision. Not sure if you're ready? Take our quiz to find out.
Why Adopt vs. Buy?
Every year, thousands of rabbits end up in shelters and rescue organizations because their owners could no longer care for them. These rabbits range from young bunnies to senior companions, and many are already litter-trained and socialized.
Benefits of Adopting
- Save a life: You're giving a second chance to a rabbit in need
- Lower cost: Adoption fees are typically $25-$100, much less than buying from a breeder
- Known personality: Rescues often foster rabbits, so you know their temperament
- Already spayed/neutered: Most rescues sterilize rabbits before adoption
- Support a good cause: Your adoption fee helps rescue more rabbits
When Buying from a Breeder Makes Sense
- Specific breed: You have your heart set on a particular breed or color
- Show rabbits: You want to show or breed rabbits
- Documentation: You want registered rabbits with known pedigrees
- Working with a specific breeder: You want to build a relationship with a reputable breeder for ongoing support
Regardless of your choice, always research and ask questions. A reputable source-whether rescue or breeder-will want to ensure their rabbits go to good homes.
Not sure where to start?
Find more breeders: ARBA Breeder Directory | Rabbit Breeders US
Find more rescues: House Rabbit Society Chapters | BunSpace Rescue Search
