| Pet Rabbits |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-304 |
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Q: We're thinking about getting a rabbit. Can a rabbit live in the house? A: (from Joel Tatum and Stephanie Zalinkski, Ask DIY Pet experts) Rabbits make wonderful pets... in fact, six million Americans own rabbits! If you plan to keep your rabbit indoors, follow the guidelines below to ensure that your rabbit stays safe, healthy and happy in your home. - First, go through your entire house and locate all electrical cords. Then purchase enough plastic tubing (available in home improvement stores) to cover each cord in your home. Using a utility knife, carefully slit the lengths of cord down the center (figure A), then place cords inside (figure B).
- Next purchase a cage that's large enough to comfortably house your rabbit (figure C). Furnish the cage with a food bowl and water bottle and designate a practical space in which to keep it.
- As you get to know your rabbit, you'll want to be sure you handle him or her properly. One common mistake is lifting a rabbit by the scruff of he neck. The correct method is to firmly place one hand under the rabbit's front feet (figure D), the other hand under its bottom. Make sure you have a firm hold before you lift; if you're worried about dropping your rabbit, practice lifting while sitting on a bed or sofa.
- Like cats, rabbits will use a litter box if trained. To make the litter box(es) accommodating for your rabbit, place a thin layer of regular clay cat litter in the bottom, and cover it with straw (figure E). Leave the box(es) in areas where your rabbit can easily find and access them.
- To groom your rabbit, purchase a small brush designed for cats or small dogs . Brush gently in the direction of the fur growth while holding the rabbit close to your chest (figure F).
- Finally, give your rabbit something to chew on while in the cage. Find a cardboard tube like those used for paper towels and toilet paper and fill it with extra straw (figure G). (This will help assuage your rabbit's insatiable urge to chew!)
RESOURCES :
Storey's Guide to Raising Rabbits: Breeds, Care, Facilities
Model: 1580172601
Author: Bob Bennett and Deborah Burns
November 2000
Storey Books / Storey Communications Inc.
Website: www.storey.com
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