Getting Ready for Your Baby Bunny’s Arrival with Molesey Vets
July 22, 2024
If a baby bunny rabbit sounds like the perfect new addition to your home, you’re in for a treat. Rabbits can make wonderful pets, and caring for young ones can be a rewarding experience, though it does require effort and responsibility. There are a few basics to consider beforehand, so our vet Darren Partridge has compiled a checklist to guide you.
Book your bunny’s first health check
If you still have questions after reading the advice, please don’t hesitate to contact Molesey Vets and our friendly team will be happy to answer them.
Baby rabbit care advice
1. Age
Darren advises that 8 weeks with mom is best for baby bunnies (kits). Mom provides all the food they need and teaches them bunny basics for a happy life. After 8 weeks, they’re usually weaned and ready for their own adventures.
2. Nutrition
For 3 weeks, baby bunnies (kits) just need mom’s milk. By 8 weeks, they’re usually weaned, munching hay (typically Timothy hay), and enjoying small amounts of fresh greens. Fresh water is a must-have 24/7.
3. Companionship
Rabbits are sociable creatures and like the company of their own kind, so consider getting two – talk to us about neutering. Look for a same-age friend from an animal rescue centres in Surrey for double the fun! Not all bunnies will be BFF though, so slow introductions are key!
4. Space
Rabbits need ample space to hop and play. A spacious hutch and run setup with a cosy area to sleep in will be ideal. They enjoy burrowing too, so be sure to provide a tray filled with dirt. Ensure their home is secure to prevent escape attempts and just in case, Darren advises to ask about rabbit microchipping at their first health check!
5. Health & wellbeing
Darren recommends vaccinating all rabbits against myxomatosis and both strains of Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (R-VHD1 and R-VHD2), which are usually fatal. This can be done during their first health check, where you can also discuss neutering options with our team. Remember to check your daily for signs of fly-strike (especially in warm weather) and keep their hutches clean and dry.
6. House rabbits
If you’re thinking of keeping your rabbits as house pets, do take extra care to make all cabling secure and put all houseplants out of reach in case they are toxic to rabbits.
We hope Darren’s checklist helps as a basic guide. Of course, you can always pop into our vet practice in Molesey or contact us on 0208 9791384 for further information.
Our team wait to meet your new bunny, or bunnies! Book their 1st health check with our team now.
