Let's talk about Pets

by Ruwini Jayawardana

Bunny facts- get to know your furry companion

As a pet

Rabbits can be kept inside, and interact with a family just like a cat or a dog but they are easily frightened and can be unsettled by rough handling. So they are not recommended for very young children.

Rabbit family

Male rabbits are called "bucks", females are "does" (and are larger) and youngsters are "kittens". A group is known as a "herd" and can live in a "warren".

Life

Rabbits are most active at dawn and twilight and can have a lifespan beyond 10 years.

Mating

Rabbits should be desexed especially if you are keeping pairs as they will either breed or fight. Non-desexed rabbits will also mark your house with droppings.

Food

Rabbits are vegetarians and have a great ability to digest fibre.

To do this they digest food twice, eating their own droppings - a vice in other animals but normal in the rabbit. Rabbit diet consists of vegetables, hay and pellets, with a good quality oat hay being of primary importance to keeping your bunny healthy.