Rabbits are cute, affectionate animals who make great pets, particularly for those who lead busy lives. They don’t need to be walked like a dog since they fulfil their exercise requirements by running and hopping around the house. Moreover, they are well-suited for small households and apartment dwellers as well.
If you are a first-time rabbit owner, you might have doubts about the essential rabbit supplies you need to ensure the well-being of bunnies. Here are 7 must-have rabbit supplies to stock,
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Cage
One of the first things a rabbit needs is a safe cage, where they can eat, drink, go to the bathroom and hide if they want to. Their cage should have enough space to jump, stretch and stand up fully on their hind legs, without their ears hitting the roof. The minimum dimensions of a rabbit cage should be 3m x 2m x 1m (length x breadth x height). However, a bigger enclosure is always appreciated.
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Hay
Hay is the foundation of any rabbit’s diet. Timothy Hay, for instance, is a popular choice among many rabbit owners as they are high in fibre and low in protein, which keeps the rabbit’s digestive tract healthy. The fibre in the hay also ensures that your rabbits absorb the nutrients effectively. The hay also supports natural abrasion of your bunny’s teeth and prevents them from growing too big.
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Pellets
Pellets are supplement foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals to your rabbit, which they don’t get from hay. The vitamins and minerals boost their immunity, protecting them from many illnesses. They are also rich in fibre that supports healthy digestive functioning in the rabbits. Since they are not primary foods, pellets should only be fed in moderation as too much of them can cause obesity in the rabbits.
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Comfortable Bedding
Providing your rabbits with fine-quality bedding provides a soft surface for them to lie on, eat and sleep. They are generally made from renewable softwoods made of fir and spruce that protect your rabbits’ feet from sores. The bedding also fulfils a rabbit’s innate need to dig and burrow, and this keeps them mentally stimulated and reduces stress and anxiety in them.
At the same time, it is essential to avoid using materials like pine, cedar wood shavings, sawdust, cat litter etc as bedding, since they are harmful to your rabbit’s health.
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Toys
Bunnies love to play with toys since they can gnaw on them, toss, push and rearrange them. Toys also encourage your pets to perform natural behaviours like chewing, digging, jumping and chin rubbing. Without toys, rabbits can develop undesirable habits and may resort to chewing on your precious items in your house. Toys also prevent boredom in rabbits, especially when you are out of the house.
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Exercise Wheel
One of the best accessories to keep your rabbits healthy and fit, an exercise wheel satisfies your rabbit’s urge to run. The wheel helps your rabbits expend energy by running and it features a closed running surface and a backwall for increased protection. To keep the exercise wheel running smoothly, you can add a bit of cooking oil to it.
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Nail Clipper
Nail clippers are essential accessories for rabbit care since they help prevent injuries and discomfort in the bunnies. If your rabbit has long nails, it can accidentally get caught on things, torn out or even get dislocated, causing immense pain to them. Having well-trimmed nails prevents this issue and lets your rabbit run more freely and easily. Besides, rabbits with short nails are less likely to scratch you and cause hurt while playing with them.
In Short,
Now that you have seen all the essential rabbit supplies, you are ready to welcome your bunny home. And of course, give them fresh water and a balanced diet rich in fibre for maintaining excellent health in them. If you feel any concerns regarding their health, do contact your vet without any delay.
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