So, you’ve hopped into the wonderful world of bunny parenthood. Congrats! Rabbits are adorable, fluffy, and full of personality.

But let’s be real—they’re also little divas with very specific needs. And if you’re not careful, you might accidentally make some rookie mistakes.

Whether you’re a new bunny parent or a seasoned pro, here are 7 common mistakes rabbit owners make and how to avoid them. Spoiler: Your bunny will thank you.

1. Treating Them Like Low-Maintenance Pets

Let’s get this out of the way: rabbits are not “starter pets.” IMO, they’re more like tiny, furry CEOs who demand your undivided attention. Sure, they’re quiet and don’t need walks, but they’re also sensitive, social, and require a lot of care.

Think about it: Would you leave a toddler alone all day with just a carrot and a cardboard box? No? Then don’t do it to your bunny. They need mental stimulation, social interaction, and a clean, safe environment.

FYI, ignoring this can lead to a bored, destructive, or even depressed rabbit. And trust me, a depressed bunny is not a cute look.

Great video you should watch:

2. Skimping on Space

Here’s the deal: rabbits need room to roam. That tiny cage you saw at the pet store? Yeah, that’s basically a bunny jail.

Rabbits are active creatures who love to hop, binky (that’s bunny-speak for jumping for joy), and explore. Confining them to a small space is like forcing a marathon runner to live in a closet.

Instead, give them a large, bunny-proofed area to call their own. Think playpens, exercise pens, or even a whole room. And don’t forget to let them out for supervised free-roaming time. Just make sure they can’t chew through your favorite shoes. :/

3. Feeding Them the Wrong Diet

Newsflash: Carrots are not a rabbit’s main food source. I know, I know—Bugs Bunny lied to us all. But feeding your bunny too many carrots (or other sugary treats) can lead to obesity and digestive issues.

So, what should they eat? Unlimited hay. Yep, hay is the backbone of a rabbit’s diet. It keeps their digestive system running smoothly and their teeth in check. Add in some fresh greens, a small amount of pellets, and the occasional treat, and you’ve got yourself a happy, healthy bunny.

4. Ignoring Their Social Needs

Rabbits are social animals. Like, really social. In the wild, they live in groups, so leaving your bunny alone all day is basically bunny torture. Loneliness can lead to stress, depression, and even health problems.

If you can’t spend hours a day with your bunny, consider getting them a friend. Yes, I’m talking about a second rabbit. But be warned: introducing two bunnies is like setting up a blind date. It takes time, patience, and a lot of supervision.

5. Not Bunny-Proofing Your Home

Rabbits are curious little creatures with a knack for destruction. They’ll chew on wires, furniture, and anything else they can get their teeth on. Bunny-proofing is not optional—it’s a necessity.

Start by covering wires, moving toxic plants out of reach, and blocking off areas you don’t want them to explore. And if you’re attached to your baseboards, well… good luck.

6. Skipping Vet Visits

Here’s the thing: rabbits are masters at hiding illness. By the time you notice something’s wrong, it could be serious. That’s why regular vet check-ups are crucial.

But not just any vet will do. You need an exotic vet who specializes in rabbits. Trust me, you don’t want to be stuck in an emergency situation with a vet who thinks rabbits are basically guinea pigs.

7. Not Spaying or Neutering

Let’s talk about the birds and the bunnies. Spaying or neutering your rabbit is a must. Not only does it prevent unwanted litters (because, let’s face it, the world doesn’t need more surprise bunnies), but it also reduces the risk of certain cancers and behavioral issues.

Plus, unaltered rabbits can be… well, a handful. Think spraying, aggression, and constant humping. Spaying or neutering can make your bunny calmer, happier, and easier to bond with.

Final Thoughts

Owning a rabbit is a rewarding experience, but it’s not all cuddles and cute Instagram posts. Rabbits require time, effort, and a whole lot of love. Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll be well on your way to being the best bunny parent ever.

So, what’s your biggest bunny blunder? Let’s commiserate in the comments. And remember: when in doubt, just give your bunny some hay and a head scratch. They’ll probably forgive you. 🙂

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David

I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉