Rabbits need to be be kept in pairs or groups to help keep them happy, plus they’ll love being around you!
Companionship for your rabbits
Rabbits are incredibly sociable animals and if they don’t have the right company and lots of fun things to do they can suffer. Always keep your rabbits in pairs or groups. Littermates usually make for the best hutch mates. Remember, all rabbits should be neutered, even siblings, to avoid unwanted pregnancies and to help prevent health problems. For more information on neutering your rabbits, see our rabbit health guide.
Unfamiliar rabbits need to be introduced to each other very carefully and gradually under owner supervision, preferably in a space which is new to both rabbits. Always ask the advice of a vet or other pet care specialist when bonding rabbits.
Bonding with your rabbits
It is beneficial for rabbits to socialise with humans from an early age, this will help them grow into confident adults. Let them get used to you by talking to them softly and gently stroking them. After a while they’ll feel confident enough to be in your company. When interacting with your rabbits remember that they are prey animals so can find being lifted and carried distressing so try to interact with them at ground level. If you do need to pick your rabbits up, for example when you are completing weekly health checks ensure that all four of their legs and their bottom are securely supported.
Handling your rabbits
It is best to avoid picking rabbits up as they tend to prefer to be handled on the floor where they feel safer. When you do need to pick one of your rabbits up you should place one hand under their chest and the other under your rabbit’s hind legs. When you lift your rabbit up, hold them against your body to keep them secure. It’s good to have a non-slip surface to handle them on, a towel or carpet for example.
Never pick your rabbits up by the ears or the scruff of the neck – it is extremely stressful and can be painful.
Quick tip
Foraging and chewing will keep your rabbit physically and emotionally stimulated.
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Did you know?
Rabbits can be trained, this is great for their physical and mental stimulation. Take a look at our rabbit behaviour guide for tips on how to train your rabbits.
Our Burgess Excel Range
When it comes to choosing the best rabbit food for your beloved buns, Burgess Excel Rabbit Food range comes out on top. In fact, 92% of UK vets recommend our Burgess Excel small pets range*.
The bulk of your rabbits’ diet should consist of good-quality rabbit feeding hay or fresh grass, measured to the equivalent of their body size. Fresh hay should be available at all times for your rabbit to graze.
Our Excel rabbit treats are a tasty, healthy treat range perfect for your rabbits. Our tasty baked treats are baked with love and perfect for hand feeding, or try our forage mixes, great for sprinkling through your rabbits' hay to encourage their natural foraging behaviour.
When it comes to choosing bedding for rabbits, you want to ensure that your bunnies will be safe, clean, cosy and comfortable. Our cosy bedding is perfect for keeping your small animals warm and cosy while they sleep, it's easy to spot clean and is suitable for use as bedding or litter.
Do you need more advice?
To help you find the right food for your rabbits have a look at our product range.
You can get in touch with our customer care team who will respond in 3-5 working days. Our dedicated team of pet experts will help you make the right choice.
If you should have any concerns about the health of your rabbits, always consult a vet.
