Cats

Fish

Rabbits

Birds

Horses

Things to Consider Before Getting a Rabbit

Lisa Selvaggio
by Lisa Selvaggio
Published:  March 21st, 2026

Rabbits are irresistibly cute and surprisingly smart, so you might be thinking about getting one as a pet. But before you do, it’s important to learn how to care for them properly. Despite being small, they have specific needs and aren’t the easiest pets to keep. To help you make the right decision, we’ve put together a short list of some of the main things to consider before bringing a pet rabbit home.

PV productions/Shutterstock

Rabbits Are a Long-Term Commitment


Many people are tempted to get a pet rabbit for their family during the spring season or for the Easter holiday, whether they decide to go to a pet store, breeder, or adoption center. But that motivation to get a bunny for yourself or your kids might turn into a bit of regret if you don’t do enough research on these animals and what you should expect.  


There are many rabbit breeds that grow to varying sizes and have varying lifespans. Generally, these pets require a long-term commitment, with average lifespans ranging from 8 to 12 years or longer.  


On a daily basis, rabbits need to be able to exercise and play outside of their cage. Plus, it’s a good idea to get more than one rabbit because these are social creatures.


A rabbit’s enclosure needs to be cleaned every day to remove waste, and deep cleaned weekly. They also need to be fed a high-quality diet. If you want, you can even train your rabbit to use a litter box, and this will require time and patience.


Also, pet rabbits need to be groomed at least weekly to keep their fur healthy, remove loose hair that might cause an obstruction if ingested, and keep their nails trimmed. Products like the Kaytee Pro-Slicker Brush can be used to gently brush their coat, and the Kaytee Pro-Nail Trimmer is designed for trimming the nails of small pets like bunnies.

In addition to all of that, you’ll need to find an exotic veterinarian in your area who has experience with these pets. Have your rabbit examined by a veterinarian on a regular basis to ensure they’re doing well, and discuss spaying/neutering them, especially if you have males and females together. Because various health problems can arise, familiarize yourself with the signs that something might be wrong with your bunny—that way, if your pet exhibits any symptoms of illness, you can promptly take them to the vet for a diagnosis and treatment plan.


Rabbits Need a Lot of Space


Rabbits are small but they need plenty of space to be happy and comfortable. The more rabbits you have or the larger the breed, the bigger their enclosure will need to be. The key is to ensure they can stretch, jump, run, lie down, and stand up on their hind legs while inside their enclosure, so they should have plenty of room to move around.  


An example is the PawHut 62" Wooden Rabbit Hutch with Run Area, Removable Tray, Asphalt Roof & Lockable Doors, measuring 62” x 20.75” x 36.75” with a run area and a main house. It can be used indoors or outside, and can house up to three small to medium rabbits.

Fill their enclosure with rabbit-safe bedding, food and water bowls, toys, a litter box with rabbit-safe litter, hideouts, and other accessories to keep them cozy and content. And rabbits love to chew on things, so they’ll need a variety of safe chew toys inside and outside of their cage.


Rabbits Need a Lot of Attention, Enrichment, and Interaction


As you get to know different rabbits, you’ll find that they have their own unique personalities. Socializing bunnies from a young age can help them be more outgoing and comfortable with being held.


Bunnies aren’t supposed to stay in their enclosure all the time. Set up a large play area, or rabbit-proof a bedroom, so your bunnies will be able to run, jump, and play with their toys out of their cage for a few hours daily. If weather permits and you have an appropriate and secure enclosure, you can even let your bunnies spend some time outside, getting fresh air and sunshine while you supervise for their safety.  


Spend time with your pet every day to keep them mentally stimulated and physically active. You can hold them for some cuddles, encourage them to play with puzzle toys, or even teach them tricks.


The Oxbow Animal Health Timothy Club Hide & Seek Mat is worth checking out because it’s made of 100% Timothy hay, so it’s safe for bunnies to chew and eat, and you can use it to hide treats and encourage foraging.

To ensure they don’t get hurt or chew on things they shouldn’t, always supervise your rabbit when they’re outside of their cage, especially if they’ll be sharing the space with other pets or your children.


Rabbits Make Great Pets for the Right People


There are plenty of reasons why so many people love keeping rabbits as pets, but they do require a lot of your time and attention. Before bringing a bunny home, just be sure you know what it takes to keep them healthy and happy.


Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

WOW
Lisa Selvaggio
Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

More by Lisa Selvaggio

5 Items In Your Shed That Are Dangerous for Pets
5 Items In Your Shed That Are Dangerous for Pets
View Article
Next
Related articles
Things to Consider Before Getting a Pet Degu

If you’ve ever wanted a pet that’s as curious as a squirrel but as social as a guinea pig, you might want to meet the degu. These small rodents from Chile aren’t as common as hamsters or rabbits, but for the right person they make engaging, lively companions. Before you dive in, though, there are a few important things to know.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Ferret

Ferrets can make great pets, with their high energy level and fun-loving personalities, but they aren’t right for everyone. If you’ve been thinking about bringing a ferret into your family, there are several things to consider before you do. As with any type of pet, you want to be sure you know what to expect, and you want to be certain you’ll be able to provide your ferret with the care they need.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Guinea Pig

There’s so much to like about guinea pigs. They’re super cute, they make a range of adorable sounds, and they’re small enough to fit in your hands. But even though you might be tempted to bring one home, there’s a lot to consider before you do.

5 Things to Know Before Getting a Pet Gerbil

Gerbils are small, energetic rodents that can make delightful companions. They’re curious, playful, and often cleaner than other small pets. But, like any animal, they have specific needs that future owners should be aware of before bringing them home. Here are five essential things to know before adopting a gerbil. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

7 Important Things to Consider When Getting a Pet Lizard

Lizards can make fascinating pets. With their unique personalities, vibrant colors, and intriguing behaviors, they’re a step away from the typical dog or cat. But before bringing one home, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into. Let’s take a look at some key things to consider. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Why Do Cats Like High Places?

While most cat parents will go to great lengths to invest in the well-being of their best friends, including premium nutrition and orthopedic bedding, we often overlook an important aspect of our cats’ environment: the vertical one. To a human, a tall bookshelf or the top of a refrigerator is merely a functional surface or a cleaning challenge, but to a cat, it’s a prime visual angle and command center.This preference for high vantage points is not a quirk of personality or simply a desire to climb; it is a fundamental biological desire hardwired into their DNA through millions of years of evolution.Understanding the world from your cat’s perspective requires shifting your gaze upward. In the wild, height was the difference between being a successful hunter and becoming a target for a larger predator. In our homes, this translates into a need for safety, confidence, and environmental control by finding high perches. By including vertical spaces in your home, you aren’t just giving your cat a place to play; you are providing an outlet for an instinctual need.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.The Balance of Both Predator and PreyTo understand why your cat seeks the highest perch, you must first understand how it fits into their role in the natural world. Unlike most animals that are either hunters or the hunted, cats are considered “mesopredators,” meaning they fall in the middle of the food chain. This unique position directly affects their anatomy (ensuring they can both hunt and defend themselves) and is also the reason for their need for height.The Strategic Vantage PointFrom an evolutionary standpoint, height is an incredible advantage. In the wild, your cat’s ancestors used trees and rock piles to observe the world around them in 360 degrees. High ground allows them to use their highly developed peripheral vision to detect the slightest movement of small critters or birds below without being seen.Being in an elevated position at home, like on top of a shelf or piece of cat furniture, gives your cat the same feeling of having the advantage. They have a clear line of sight over their territory (your home), allowing them to watch out for potential dangers and changes in their environment. This makes them feel safer and more secure.Safety from Above and BelowWhile cats are incredible hunters, they are also small enough to be targeted by larger carnivores or birds of prey. This makes the floor a vulnerable place for a cat to rest, as they are unprotected out in the open. Being under a “ceiling” or tucked into a high shelf protects them from the instinctual fear of being snatched from above. Likewise, height creates distance between your cat and potential threats on the ground, such as a vacuum cleaner or an overly excited dog.Cats spend a significant portion of their lives asleep. A healthy adult cat will sleep, on average, between 12 and 18 hours a day. For your cat to be happy and healthy, they need to not only have the opportunity to sleep, but to have uninterrupted, quality sleep. A high perch that makes your cat feel safe helps them enter a deep REM cycle.Psychological Benefits of Vertical SpaceBeyond the physical benefits of a clear view of their surroundings, giving your cat access to elevated spaces is important for their mental health. Making the most of their vertical territory is one of the most effective ways to manage and improve your cat’s emotional well-being.Confidence and Environmental MasteryFor many cats, especially those with more reserved or anxious personalities, the floor can feel like a gauntlet of frightening risks and unpredictable activity. Height allows them to mentally “reset” in a place where they feel safe. Being able to look down on their surroundings also provides a sense of control, as they can process information like the arrival of a new guest or a loud appliance without feeling directly threatened. Experts also note that cats who are allowed to claim high spaces generally demonstrate more outward confidence, or “mojo,” because they feel they own the entire room, not just the square footage of the floor.Stress Reduction and Coping MechanismsIn a modern home, stress is often caused by the things we consider mundane or unimportant. A cat shelf or the top of a cat tree gives your cat a safe and socially acceptable way to withdraw from interacting with the people or pets in the room without having to leave entirely. This is especially important if your cat is living with a playful pup or young child. Height provides a predictable environment. While things on the floor move and shift, your cat’s high perch is typically a safe zone that belongs exclusively to them.Individual PreferencesWhile most cats gravitate toward height, it is helpful to recognize that it isn’t true for all cats. In fact, there are generally two personalities in cats when it comes to their environmental preferences:Tree Dwellers: These cats are only truly happy when they are at the highest point in the room. They are the ones you will find on top of cabinets or the highest perch on a cat tree.Bush Dwellers: These cats prefer to stay closer to the ground, often seeking out low-level cover or mid-height perches. They still benefit from vertical space, but they prefer shorter heights and secure hideaways.You can identify which of these two categories your cat falls into by observing their daily routine. Does your cat seek out the highest places they can perch? Do they prefer to nap in a ground-level hideaway like a kitty condo? Knowing this valuable piece of information, you can consider the best way to offer the environmental enrichment that best speaks to your cat’s needs.

How to Train Yourself to Train a Dog

Training a dog starts with training yourself. Dogs are incredibly attuned to human behavior, so if you’re impatient, inconsistent, or uncertain, they’ll notice—and it can make training much harder. Here’s everything you need to know to be ready to guide your dog with confidence.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Actor and Animal Lover Diane Keaton Gave Back

From fund-raisers to raising awareness, the actor of Annie Hall fame, gave time and celeb status to her fave rescue.

Which Cats Are Less Likely to Get Adopted?

Animal shelters are full of cats in need of loving homes, but sadly not all cats are equally likely to find a family quickly. Understanding which cats are more likely to face adoption challenges can help shelters, volunteers, and potential pet owners ensure that every cat has the opportunity for a happy, forever home.

Socializing Kittens: How-Tos and Tips

What is kitten socialization? It’s a process that requires time, patience, and a gentle approach, but it’s necessary and valuable because it will ensure your kitten grows up to be an adult cat who’s relaxed around people and other pets they know, as well as confident around strangers and when experiencing new things.

The Dos and Don’ts of Pet Grooming at Home

Grooming your pet at home can be a really rewarding experience.It’s a chance to bond, keep your furry friend healthy, and even save a little on grooming costs. But it’s more than just making your pet look good.Done right, it prevents mats, skin issues, and discomfort. Done wrong, it can be stressful for both of you.Here’s a guide to the key dos and don’ts of home grooming. Remember, you can reach out to your vet if you’re unsure about anything. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

5 Adorable Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas Your Dog Will Truly Love

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for humans. Your pup deserves a little extra love too. Whether your dog enjoys playtime treats or looking stylish, these thoughtfully chosen Valentine’s Day gifts are perfect for showing them how much you care. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Meet Henry, a 25-Year-Old Dog Who Helps Senior Pets in Shelters

Henry the dog has become quite famous on the internet. If you haven’t heard about him yet, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn why this pooch is so special.

Is Catnip Bad for Dogs?

Have you recently noticed your dog sniffing around your cat’s favorite toy? If so, you may find yourself wondering why your dog is drawn to something clearly designed for cats. After all, it’s called “cat” nip for a reason, right?This harmless-looking herb drives our cats into a frenzy of rolling, drooling, and playful craziness. But what happens if your dog ingests the leafy green? Does it cause the same “high”? Is it even safe? And, perhaps most importantly, could the herb that’s famous for making cats go wild actually offer any potential benefits for our pups? After all, we want to give our dogs the happiest lives possible, and that sometimes means exploring options outside of the usual dog-specific products.In this article, I’ll answer these questions and more.What Exactly is Catnip?You’ve likely seen catnip mentioned a million times when it comes to cats’ toys, but what exactly is it? To understand how it interacts with your dog, we first need to know exactly what it is. It’s much more than just a novelty for the kitties in our lives; it’s an herb with a long history, even in human tradition.Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb in the mint family. It’s native to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, but it now grows readily around the world. In fact, you can likely buy catnip seeds in your local garden center. Historically, long before it was known for entertaining housecats, humans used it in herbal teas for its calming and mild sedative properties. It was also sometimes used to improve digestion.         The reason catnip attracts so much attention centers on one specific volatile oil: Nepetalactone. This oil is contained within the leaves, stems, and seed pods of the plant.In cats, it’s the nepetalactone that triggers the short-term neurological reaction that we see, aka the crazy burst of energy that they get when they get near it. However, as I’ll explain in the next section, the canine system processes the chemical very differently. It’s unlikely to start zooming around the room after a sniff.Is Catnip Safe for Dogs?Returning to the original question of this article, is catnip safe for your dog? If your pup decides to tear apart a cat toy (as my girl Willow has done several times), should you be worried?When discussing the safety of any substance, we need to address both the potential for toxicity and the risk of discomfort for your pup. While the latter may not be life-threatening, we all want to take steps to keep our dogs feeling comfortable!Catnip is Generally Non-Toxic to DogsFirst and foremost, you can breathe a sigh of relief if your dog has recently tested the waters with the herb. According to organizations like the ASPCA and the Pet Poison Helpline, catnip is not listed as a poisonous substance that can cause severe or life-threatening reactions in dogs. If your dog nibbles a stray leaf or manages to sample the dried herb while chewing a cat toy, there is no need to panic. The plant will not poison them.Understanding “Non-Toxic” vs. “Harmless”While catnip isn’t poisonous, that doesn’t mean your dog should be allowed to eat a whole patch. It’s crucial that dog parents understand the difference between a substance being “non-toxic” (aka not poisonous) and “harmless” or safe to eat without any consequences.The risk associated with catnip exposure centers almost entirely on gastrointestinal problems. The digestive systems of our dogs are not designed to ingest large quantities of plant matter. If they eat too much of any herb or green, including catnip, it can irritate their digestive tract.The most common side effects of eating excessive amounts of plant matter are mild and short-lived, such as temporary vomiting, diarrhea, or general stomach discomfort. Generally, your dog will start to feel better as soon as the material passes. However, if your dog passes the plants and is still showing signs of discomfort, contact your veterinarian, as there may be a bigger problem to address.The Hidden Hazard of the Toy ItselfNow that we’ve clarified that eating some catnip from chewing a cat toy isn’t going to cause any serious harm, there is a danger associated with this situation that I want to highlight. Chewing a non-edible item (like a cat toy) can lead to trouble!Catnip toys are designed to be light, fluffy, and enticing for cats. But they are not durable for a powerful canine jaw, especially if your pup is a power chewer like our two! If they ingest a chunk of stuffing, the fabric or plastic pieces, or even a whole catnip mouse (yes, it happens), it can create a serious choking hazard or, worse, a risk of life-threatening obstruction.Always supervise your dog around cat toys if they share their home with a feline sibling. Immediately take away the toys if you see your pup starting to chew on them.The Impact of Catnip on DogsWe’re all familiar with the hilarious, erratic behavior you might see from your cat after being exposed to catnip, but what about dogs? If your pup does manage to ingest a little catnip, you may be surprised. The key difference lies in the way dogs and cats process the active ingredient, nepetalactone.Unlike cats, dogs don’t get “high” on catnip. Cats possess specialized receptors, particularly in the roof of their mouth, that are sensitive to nepetalactone. This triggers a strong, euphoric response when the scent is inhaled, leading to the reaction we commonly associate with the herb.On the other hand (or paw), dogs lack these sensitive receptors. While they can smell the herb, their brains do not process the nepetalactone in a way that causes the typical stimulation. Instead, they respond when they ingest catnip (either the leaves or the dried herb). For our pups, this acts as a mild sedative or relaxant. It is the same effect that humans expect when they historically brewed catnip tea to calm their nerves or help them sleep.When consumed, catnip has a mild depressant effect on a dog’s central nervous system, helping to reduce general restlessness or anxiety. The response is often very subtle, so don’t expect your dog to suddenly collapse into a tranquil slumber. Instead, you can expect your pup to show a slight easing of tension or an increase in general calmness.While rare, it is worth noting that a very small percentage of dogs may experience the opposite, showing a mild stimulating effect. Always monitor your dog carefully during their first few exposures to see how their unique system processes the herb. If you notice increased agitation or hyperactivity, stop using it.However, for the vast majority of dogs, the primary effect is either a mild calming one or none at all.

5 Essential Items for Dogs Who Spend Time Home Alone

Leaving your furry friend home alone can be stressful—for both you and your dog. Fortunately, there are plenty of modern pet items out there that make things safer, more comfortable, and happier for your pup. Whether you work long hours or just need to be out of the house often, here are five must-have items for dogs who often spend time alone.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

What to Consider Before Moving State With a Pet

Moving to a new state is exciting, but it can be stressful for your furry friend.Pets thrive on routine, so a move requires extra planning to make the transition as smooth as possible.Here are some key things to consider before hitting the road.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Pet Parents Believe Their Dogs Match Their Personalities

A survey commissioned by Darwin’s Natural Pet Products has found that most dog parents believe they were matched with their dogs by fate. So, if you have always felt a deep connection to your canine companion, or you see that they mirror some of your own personality traits, you’re like a lot of other people who share their homes with dogs.

Dogs Can Smell Hemangiosarcoma, a Type of Canine Cancer

Can dogs be used to detect cancer in other dogs? Researchers have found that it may be possible when it comes to hemangiosarcoma, which is an aggressive canine cancer.

About Privacy Terms Contact us Copyright
© 2026  VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved.