cats for pets. If you are looking for exotic pets, then dwarf bunnies
are for you. They are cute, cuddly creatures, and as the name
suggests, simply smaller versions of rabbits. This species requires
care that is different from the regular cats and dogs. Of course,
every pet requires good amount of attention, but the care requirements
for each pet also differs. As such, knowing the kind of pet you will
be bringing home is essential before you decide to have a dwarf bunny
as a pet. Presented here are some facts about dwarf rabbits, and how
you should take care of them.
Dwarf Bunny Care
Experts suggest that the best time to buy dwarf bunnies is when they
are three to four months old. If you are getting a male dwarf bunny,
ensure that it is spayed or neutered. Do not fathom keeping two males
together as they view each other as competition, even in the absence
of a female of the species. On the other hand, you may keep a pair of
two female dwarf bunnies as pets. Finally, among the various breeds of
this species, the Netherland dwarf bunny is the most docile breed to
choose from. The other breeds are known to be more aggressive. With
the knowledge of choosing these furry little creatures as pets, here's
a look at some tips on caring for them.
Dwarf bunnies require to be caged, as leaving them loose around your
house is definitely not a good idea. A wire cage that is 4 feet wide
and 2 feet deep and long is ideal for them. The base of the cage
should either be covered with a piece of wood, some hay, or a piece of
cardboard, and should never be left bare as it can harm your pet's
feet.
• The cage of a dwarf bunny should always be kept indoors, in the
shade. They are very susceptible to developing health conditions from
exposure to direct sunlight or heat. Furthermore, if kept in sight of
a visible or perceived predator, dwarf bunnies can even have heart
attacks.
• Dwarf bunnies require litter boxes too, but ensure the ones you
provide for them are lined with newspaper or timothy hay. This litter
box needs to be cleaned daily in order to avoid the odor it gives out.
• Apart from a litter box, your little pet will require a box where it
can dig and hide as it is a burrowing animal and the love for dark
spots is inherent in its nature. It will also require something to
chew on (phone books, chew toys, etc.) as this is another one of its
natural traits.
• The diet of dwarf bunnies mainly consists of as much hay as they
like. Timothy hay is the best type for them. Along with hay, they
require good quality rabbit pellets. These they can consume in
unlimited amounts when younger, while 1/4 cup is suitable for fully
grown rabbits. Fresh greens are essential for them, and 2 cups of any
such greens such as carrot tops and dark lettuce can be given to them
daily. Fruits such as apples and bananas can be provided as an
occasional treat. Finally, water is important and a fresh supply is
required daily.
• Though dwarf bunnies require to be caged, it is essential to ensure
they get a good amount of exercise for a few hours on a daily basis.
These pets cannot be left loose without supervision, so ensure you are
always monitoring their activities. Keep wires, curtains, and other
chewables out of their reach. When outdoors, the space they can play
in should be enclosed well, and they should not be allowed to dig too
many burrows lest they escape thereon. No potential predators should
be in sight.
• When letting a dwarf bunny out of a cage, do not ever lift it by its
ears as this affects them emotionally. Let them come out on their own,
and hold them with both hands cupped. This shows a lot of affection
and gives them the attention they need. Children may be prone to
scratches and bites from dwarf bunnies if they do not handle them
carefully. As such, make sure your kids are never left alone with
them.
• As mentioned earlier, it is possible that dwarf bunnies may develop
certain health conditions, symptoms of which they may not show
immediately causing the condition to get worse over time. You must
really be tuned with their personality and nature to be able to notice
any changes in their behavior and point out health problems.
• A Netherland dwarf bunny weighs only up to 2 pounds when full-grown.
The life span of a dwarf rabbit ranges anywhere between 7-10 years,
though some have known to exceed this range and live up to 13 years.
Simply put, the amount of care and affection dwarf bunnies receive is
essential in determining their life span.
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