I still remember the excitement I felt when I first considered getting a rabbit. I’d seen so many adorable videos online of fluffy bunnies hopping around, looking like the perfect low-maintenance pets. “How hard could it be?” I thought to myself, imagining a small, quiet companion that wouldn’t require much effort. Back then, I had no idea what I was getting into.
Rabbits are often misunderstood. Many people think of them as easy, low-cost, and child-friendly pets that happily live in a cage and eat the occasional carrot. But the reality couldn’t be further from the truth. Owning a rabbit is a much bigger commitment than most people anticipate. I learned that the hard way, and I’ve heard similar stories from others who found themselves overwhelmed.
If you’re thinking about getting a rabbit, take a moment to consider the following 10 reasons why it might not be the best idea. These lessons are based on real experiences—both my own and those of others—and they might save you from making a decision you could regret.
1. Rabbits Require a Lot of Space
When I got my rabbit, I naively thought that a small cage in the corner of the room would be enough. After all, they’re tiny animals, right? But I quickly discovered that rabbits need far more space than I had anticipated. They thrive when they have room to roam, hop, and explore, just like a cat or dog.
The cage that I originally bought turned out to be barely big enough for my bunny to stretch out, let alone play. I ended up dedicating an entire area of my living room for her to roam freely. And let me tell you, bunny-proofing a room is no small task! Rabbits are curious creatures, and without enough space to move, they can become frustrated, bored, and even depressed.
2. Rabbits Are Not Low-Maintenance
Before owning a rabbit, I assumed they were one of the easiest pets to care for. But it didn’t take long for reality to hit me. Rabbits require daily feeding, fresh hay, clean water, and frequent cleaning of their living area. On top of that, they need exercise, social interaction, and mental stimulation.
Every morning, I found myself cleaning up stray hay, refilling water bowls, and dealing with droppings. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Unlike cats or dogs, rabbits have very specific dietary needs—mostly hay, supplemented with leafy greens and limited pellets. Skipping proper care, even for a day, can lead to serious health issues.
3. They Are Fragile and Easily Stressed
One of the hardest lessons I learned was how fragile rabbits truly are. I’ll never forget the time my rabbit got spooked by a loud noise outside. She bolted into her hiding spot so fast that she hurt her leg. It took weeks of care and a hefty vet bill to get her back to normal.
Rabbits are prey animals by nature, which means they’re always on high alert. Loud sounds, sudden movements, or unfamiliar people can stress them out to the point of illness. I realized that my home wasn’t as “rabbit-friendly” as I thought, and it required constant vigilance to keep her calm.
4. Veterinary Care Is Expensive
When my rabbit got sick for the first time, I had no idea how difficult—and costly—it would be to find a vet who could treat her. Rabbits are considered exotic pets, which means not every veterinarian is trained to care for them. Finding a specialist took time, and the bills added up quickly.
From regular checkups to emergency care, owning a rabbit can be just as expensive as owning a dog or cat. I remember paying over $300 for a single dental procedure because rabbits’ teeth grow continuously and can cause problems if not properly managed.
5. Rabbits Are Not Great for Children
A lot of people assume that rabbits make great pets for kids, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. I’ve seen it firsthand with a friend’s family. Their young children were excited about the new bunny but quickly lost interest when they realized it didn’t like being cuddled or carried.
Rabbits are delicate animals, and they don’t enjoy being picked up or handled roughly. I’ve heard stories of children accidentally injuring their rabbits simply by trying to hold them. They’re better suited for calm, patient adults who can respect their boundaries.
6. Rabbits Need Constant Grooming
I never thought I’d spend so much time brushing a rabbit. But once my bunny started shedding, it became clear that grooming was non-negotiable. Rabbits shed heavily during certain seasons, and if you don’t keep up with it, their fur ends up everywhere—on your clothes, furniture, and even in your food.
Not only does regular grooming keep your rabbit comfortable, but it also prevents them from swallowing too much fur, which can lead to dangerous blockages in their digestive system. It’s a task that requires time and patience.
7. They Chew Everything
One day, I came home to find my phone charger in pieces. The next week, it was the corner of my couch. Rabbits have an innate need to chew, and they don’t discriminate between a piece of hay and your favorite pair of shoes.
Despite my efforts to bunny-proof the house, she always managed to find something new to gnaw on. I eventually accepted that having a rabbit meant constantly replacing cords, furniture, and other belongings.
8. They Have Long Lifespans
When I first got my rabbit, I didn’t think about how long she’d live. I assumed it would be a short-term commitment. But rabbits can live for 10 to 12 years if properly cared for—longer than many small pets.
I realized I was committing to over a decade of daily care, which is something not everyone is ready for. Life changes, such as moving, traveling, or having children, can make it difficult to care for a rabbit in the long run.
9. They Are Messy
I thought litter training my rabbit would solve most of the mess, but I was wrong. While she did use her litter box for the most part, there were always stray droppings and hay scattered around. Cleaning her area became a daily chore.
On top of that, rabbits love to dig, which means they can tear up carpets or scatter dirt from their digging boxes. It’s not a pet for someone who values a spotless home.
10. Many Rabbits End Up in Shelters
One of the saddest things I’ve learned is how many rabbits are abandoned or surrendered to shelters every year. Many people buy rabbits on impulse, especially around Easter, only to realize later that they’re not prepared for the responsibility.
I’ve met so many people who regret getting a rabbit because they didn’t know what they were signing up for. It’s heartbreaking to think about the number of bunnies that end up in shelters or worse because of poor planning.
FAQ: Everything Reason You Should Know Before Getting a Rabbit
If you’re considering adding a rabbit to your family, you may have some questions about what it takes to care for these adorable, yet demanding, pets. Below, I’ve compiled a detailed FAQ that addresses the most common concerns people have before getting a rabbit. This guide is based on personal experience and insights to help you make an informed decision.
1. Do Rabbits Make Good Pets?
Rabbits can make wonderful pets for the right person, but they aren’t suitable for everyone. They’re social, intelligent, and can form strong bonds with their owners. However, they require a lot of care, space, and attention, making them a challenging choice for first-time pet owners or those looking for low-maintenance animals.
2. How Much Space Does a Rabbit Need?
Rabbits need far more space than most people realize. A small cage isn’t sufficient—they require a roomy enclosure and a safe, rabbit-proofed area where they can roam freely. Ideally, this space should allow for several hours of exercise each day. A minimum of 4-6 square feet for their enclosure, plus an exercise area, is recommended.
3. Are Rabbits Low-Maintenance Pets?
No, rabbits are not low-maintenance. They need daily feeding, fresh water, grooming, and a clean environment. You’ll also need to spend time bonding with them, monitoring their health, and providing mental stimulation. Neglecting these needs can lead to stress, boredom, or illness.
4. Are Rabbits Good Pets for Children?
Rabbits are generally not ideal for young children. While they’re cute and cuddly in appearance, they are fragile animals that don’t like being handled roughly. Rabbits can easily be injured if dropped or mishandled, and they may nip or scratch if they feel scared or stressed. Older, calm children may be better suited for interacting with rabbits under adult supervision.
5. What Do Rabbits Eat?
A rabbit’s diet is specific and crucial to their health. They require:
Hay: The primary component of their diet (about 80%).
Fresh Greens: Leafy vegetables like romaine lettuce, cilantro, and parsley.
Pellets: In moderation, as a supplement, not the main food source.
Fresh Water: Replenished daily.
Foods like carrots, fruit, and treats should be given sparingly, as they are high in sugar.
6. Do Rabbits Require Veterinary Care?
Yes, rabbits need regular veterinary care, just like any other pet. This includes annual health check-ups, vaccinations (in some regions), and treatments for conditions like overgrown teeth or digestive issues. Since rabbits are considered exotic pets, finding a qualified vet can be challenging and costly. Emergency care for rabbits is also expensive.
7. How Long Do Rabbits Live?
With proper care, rabbits can live 8 to 12 years, and some even live longer. This lifespan is comparable to that of a small dog, making them a long-term commitment. Before getting a rabbit, consider whether you’re ready to provide consistent care for a decade or more.
8. Can Rabbits Be Litter-Trained?
Yes, many rabbits can be litter-trained. They naturally prefer to go in one spot, which makes training easier than you might expect. However, they may still leave occasional droppings outside the litter box, and the process requires patience. Consistency, the right setup, and positive reinforcement are key.
9. Are Rabbits Messy?
Rabbits can be quite messy. Even with litter training, they tend to scatter hay and droppings around their living area. They also shed heavily during certain seasons, leaving fur everywhere. Regular cleaning of their enclosure and surrounding areas is essential to keep things manageable.
10. Do Rabbits Chew on Things?
Yes, rabbits are natural chewers, and they will gnaw on just about anything they can find—furniture, baseboards, wires, and even clothing. To keep your rabbit safe and your belongings intact, you’ll need to thoroughly rabbit-proof your home and provide plenty of chew toys to redirect this behavior.
11. Do Rabbits Get Along with Other Pets?
It depends. Rabbits can sometimes bond with other animals like cats or dogs, but this requires careful introductions and constant supervision. Rabbits are prey animals, so they can feel threatened by predators. It’s important to assess your existing pet’s temperament and ensure that interactions are safe.
12. How Do Rabbits Show Affection?
Rabbits aren’t like dogs or cats when it comes to affection. They show love in subtle ways, such as:
Nudging you gently with their nose.
Licking you (a sign of grooming, which indicates trust).
Sitting next to you or relaxing in your presence.
Bonding with a rabbit takes time and patience, but it’s rewarding when they finally trust you.
13. What Kind of Grooming Do Rabbits Need?
Rabbits require regular grooming, especially long-haired breeds like Angoras. This includes:
Brushing: To manage shedding and prevent fur from being ingested.
Nail Trimming: Every 4-6 weeks.
Ear Cleaning: Occasionally, to prevent wax buildup.
Neglecting grooming can lead to serious health issues, including digestive blockages from ingested fur.
14. How Do Rabbits Handle Stress?
Rabbits are highly sensitive to stress. Loud noises, sudden movements, or changes in their environment can make them anxious. Prolonged stress can weaken their immune system, leading to health problems. Providing a calm, consistent environment is crucial to keeping them happy and healthy.
15. Why Do Rabbits End Up in Shelters?
Sadly, many rabbits are abandoned because their owners were unprepared for the responsibility. Common reasons include:
Misunderstanding their care needs.
Underestimating the costs of veterinary care.
Impulse purchases around Easter.
Lack of time or patience to care for them properly.
Before adopting a rabbit, it’s essential to think carefully about whether you can commit to their needs.
16. Should I Get a Rabbit as My First Pet?
If you’re new to pet ownership, a rabbit may not be the best choice. They require a specific set of skills and knowledge to care for properly. For first-time pet owners, it’s often better to start with a more straightforward pet like a fish or a hamster to gain experience.
17. What Are the Costs of Owning a Rabbit?
The costs of owning a rabbit can add up quickly. You’ll need to budget for:
Housing and exercise space.
High-quality hay, greens, and pellets.
Veterinary care (routine and emergency).
Grooming tools and supplies.
Toys and enrichment.
Over time, these expenses can rival those of owning a cat or dog.
18. Should I Adopt or Buy a Rabbit?
Adopting a rabbit from a shelter or rescue organization is a better option than buying from a pet store. Many rabbits in shelters are already spayed/neutered, and you’ll be giving a home to an animal in need. Additionally, shelter staff can help you find a rabbit that suits your lifestyle and experience level.
19. Can Rabbits Be Left Alone During the Day?
Rabbits are social animals and don’t do well when left alone for extended periods. While they can handle a regular workday if they have food, water, and enrichment, they need daily interaction to stay happy. If you’re away from home often, a rabbit may not be the right pet for you.
20. What Should I Consider Before Getting a Rabbit?
Before getting a rabbit, ask yourself:
Do I have the time and energy to care for a rabbit every day?
Can I provide a large, safe space for them to live and play?
Am I prepared for the long-term commitment (10+ years)?
Do I have the financial resources for veterinary care?
Is my lifestyle compatible with a rabbit’s needs?
If you can answer “yes” to these questions, you might be ready for the rewarding (but challenging) experience of owning a rabbit.
If I had known all of this before getting a rabbit, I might have made a different decision. Don’t get me wrong—I loved my rabbit dearly and did my best to provide her with a happy life. But the experience taught me that rabbits are far more challenging pets than most people realize.
Before you decide to bring a bunny into your home, take a moment to think about the time, space, and effort required. Owning a rabbit can be incredibly rewarding, but only if you’re truly prepared for the commitment. Otherwise, it’s better to admire these adorable creatures from afar.
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