Photo by Noah Silliman on Unsplash
Rabbits are amazing pets for many reasons, even if you live in an apartment or condo. They don't make much noise and can be easily litter trained. Some people think they're not smart enough to be taught tricks and potty training. However, bunnies require attention and care because they are considered high-maintenance pets.
Many people get rabbits without knowing what they're getting into, so they abandon them when they realize how much work is involved. If you want to own a rabbit, please do your research first! We're to help you with that.
Letting the Rabbit Outside Without Proper Care
Pet rabbits are not outdoor animals; they should never be left outside because they are meant to be cared for and free-roamed indoors. This is one of the signs that an owner is slowly freeing and abandoning his/her bunny.
Reasons Why There Are Abandoned Rabbits
Moving to a New Home
Some owners move to a new home and they don't consider the place if it is alright to bring a bunny. Some poor bunnies are abandoned for this reason and this shouldn't happen.
Moving from one place to another is a thrilling and stressful time. If you're moving from one place to another and have a rabbit, remember these tips to ensure your new apartment or condo is bunny-friendly!
If you're getting a house, check the following things:
●Doors and windows have secure latches or screens - rabbits can jump through small spaces like cracks between doors or windows and get out of the house if there are no screens on the windows. They can also get stuck in trash cans outside if they escape this way.
● There's a proper place for litter boxes and hay racks - rabbits will not use their litter box if it's dirty or doesn't have enough hay nearby. If there isn't enough room for them in one spot, try putting them in different areas around the house, so they don't feel crowded when using their boxes.
Too Many Pet Rabbits But Too Little Time
One process that owners might've missed is spaying or neutering. If you're a responsible owner and know you cannot care for more than two rabbits, you must get them fixed to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Please, remember that some rabbit shelters are crowded and can't accommodate more bunnies, and surrendering the litter will not help the situation.
Calculate your time thoroughly and see whether you can properly care for more than two bunnies. If you don't have enough time for them, their health will be at stake. Pet rabbits deserve a comfortable and fun life with you.
New landlord/No Pets Allowed
This is one of the worst situations, so you should always be prepared for this one. This is sad, but some owners are on a tight budget and couldn't afford to move to another place. What will you do if this happens? Would you surrender your bunny to the shelter? Or would you look for someone you know who cares for bunnies?
The latter is the better option. If you have a best friend who knows how to care for and has pet bunnies, you can ask him/her to foster the bunny. You should still provide for your bunny's needs, like food allowance, until you earn enough to move into another place where bunnies are allowed. That's the time you can get your pet back from your friend.
Disclaimer: We are not professional veterinarians or medical doctors. We created this blog based on our experiences with pet rabbits, volunteered hours in the rabbit shelter, extensive pet product research, and experienced peers. The purpose of this blog is to provide information about properly taking care of rabbits. Please know that it is still best to visit the vet regularly. For medical emergencies, contact a rabbit-savvy vet. Always observe your rabbits around new products or environmental changes.
Final Thoughts on Abandoned Rabbits
Your bunny needs you. Research and educate yourself before adopting a bunny or adding one more to avoid this situation. Abandoned rabbits are waiting for their owners, but sadly, most are still waiting.
Be a responsible bunny owner and join our community in HoppScotch.bun where all bunny parents love their bunnies like their own children.
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