|
|
 Rabbits
Genus: Oryctolagus Origin: Tame rabbits were bred from the wild European cotton-tail. Size: Size varies greatly from diminutive dwarfs to giant breeds. Life Span: Average 7-12 years (depending on breed) Temperament: Generally friendly, docile. Diet: Commercial pellets, hay (do not feed alfalfa); supplement with fresh fruits and vegetables. Note: Rabbits under 6 months old shouid not be fed fresh fruits or vegetables. Housing: 36 x 30 x 30 in Bedding: Aspen shavings or Carefresh® Water: A water bottle should be available at all times and should be changed daily. Temperature/Humidity: The ideal temperature should be between 60 and 70 degree F. Rabbits should be kept in the coolest and least humid area of the house. If they are kept in poor circulation environment, they tend to develop respiratory infections. Lighting: No special lighting is required, however like most creatures on this planet, rabbits require natural sunlight to be healthy and happy. So be sure to allow them to receive some indirect sunlight during the day. Companionship: Pairing same sex rabbits can often lead to many fighting for dominance. It is best to pair a male and female together, but after they have been neutered and spayed, unless you want babies. Rabbits and guinea pigs if bought young, can live together quite happily but if they are put in the same hutch at different times you may experience problems. Sexing: Males are called bucks and females are called does. The young are called kittens. Use your forefinger and middle finger to press down the vent area just in front of the anus. In both the doe and buck, the area will protrude. males will present a pink tube with a pointed end that resembles a bullet. The female will display a slit or central line running up and down. Each side of the slit will be banded in pink. Breeding age is 6 to 10 months and the gestation period is 29 - 35 days. Pros: Sociable. Seldom bite. Unique personalities. Diurnal (awake during the day). Quiet, rarely make a sound. Can be easily litter box trained Cons: Some are skittish and territorial. Require calm environment and a habitat that allows for ample daily exercise. Rabbits will chew plants, electrical and phone cords so you must "rabbit-proof" your home. Easily injured if dropped Note: Adapt best when raised in a social environment. Require a large habitat or exercise area with items to chew to wear down constantly growing teeth. Even if you only have one pet rabbit, it is still very important to have him/her Neutered/Spayed. If you don't spay or neuter your rabbit,either sex is more likly to have behavioral problems such as spraying,mounting,lunging and even biting. |
|
|
Common name: Rabbit