Frequently Asked Questions

I've decided to compile a collection of frequently asked questions that I receive in regards to rabbits to which I don't have an article written for. This list will probably change over time as I receive more questions and get the time to write more articles.

If you have a question that was not answered here or in my articles section, please feel free to contact me.

Which breed of rabbit is best / friendliest?

This is a question that can not be answered. Each animal has his or her personality and there can be a bad egg in every breed. Also, each breeder, fancier or pet owner will tell you that their breed is best because they've had experience with their animals and in their eyes - they are the best breed. That's why they choose to raise or own them.

A better question to ask yourself is what kind of a rabbit do I want? Long hair or short? Erect ears, or a lop? A small, medium, large or giant? Do I want a solid color or spotted?

The best way to see most of the breeds it to visit a rabbit show. You can find show dates and information on the ARBA's web site.

Which is better, a doe or a buck?

Again this is another question that can't really be answered because both have their pro's and con's. A doe may become grumpy or even mean when she wants to be bred. This is usually 13 out of 16 days... but rabbit's don't have a heat cycle so it varies from animal to animal and season to season. Bucks on the other hand, once sexually mature, may decide to mark their territory by urinating on items or even you. If you're purchasing a rabbit for a pet - I'd advise getting the animal fixed to reduce these problems.

Notice in the above statements I said they "may become grumpy" and they "may decide to mark their territory". Again, every animal is different. I've seen does that are just as content when they're ready to breed, as when they aren't. I've also had bucks who rarely ever sprayed - just some chin rubbing here and there and they're happy. So again, it depends on the individual.

Can I give my rabbit a bath?

No! Do not bathe your rabbit. Rabbits are very clean animals - cleaner than cats or dogs - IF you keep their surroundings clean. If the animal is housed in an environment where it can lay in it's urine or fecal matter, or where it is dirty, wet or muddy - the rabbit will obviously not stay clean for long. Cages with solid flooring, carpeting, blankets or constantly have straw or hay in them are some of the main culprits for having dirty, stinky rabbits.

A bath can easily stress a rabbit or make it sick. It also can dry the skin and/or fur out, giving your rabbit skin rashes or irritations.

If your rabbit does get dirty or stained - SPOT CLEAN ONLY. Stains from dirt or urine can be removed with a waterless cat or rabbit shampoo. You can also use vinegar and cornstarch. Dampen the area with the vinegar then apply the cornstarch until a paste forms. Allow the paste to dry, then brush it out. Repeat until the stain is removed. (Do not use this method on colored rabbits) Also, don't put the rabbit back into the cage until you have cleaned the cage and rabbit and they have both dried completely.

Can I get a "friend" for my rabbit?

Honestly, your rabbit doesn't need a friend or a buddy in it's cage. But if you feel it is necessary to have one or more animals in a cage together - they should be fixed. Once sexually mature, the rabbits will begin to fight or attempt to mate one another. Animals can easily be injured - I've seen it happen. The injuries can be as minor as a broken nail, or as severe and a torn ear, scratched eye, broken teeth or even broken bones.

I've also been asked if rabbits and guinea pigs could be housed together. No - you should not house these two animals together. First of all - they require different needs in their diet as well as different quantities. It would be hard to monitor the feed intake for both if they were kept in the same pen together. Also, rabbits are best housed on a wire floor. Guinea pigs need a solid floor covered in shavings to prevent them from breaking their toes, feet or legs on the wires.

Article written by Mindy Borer
Rabbit Registrar #RR473
www.TranquilAcresRabbitry.com