Why does my rabbit sleep so much?
Rabbits sleep 6 to 8 hours a day on average, in short naps. Crepuscular rhythm, normal sleep patterns and the signs that actually warrant concern.
The pet rabbit
Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus
Everything to know before adopting a rabbit: traits, lifespan, housing, feeding and adoption.
- Family
- Leporidae
- Origin
- Western Europe, mainly the Iberian Peninsula
- Life expectancy
- 8–12 years
- Size
- 20–50 cm
- Weight
- 1–7 kg
- Diet
- Herbivore
- Adoption difficulty
- Moderate
- Family-friendly
- Yes
- Apartment-friendly
- Yes
Behavior
See all →Why does my rabbit do binkies?
A binky is the mid-air twist a rabbit performs when it is bursting with joy. What the behaviour means, what triggers it and why it is such a good sign.
Why does my rabbit chew the bars of its enclosure?
Bar chewing in rabbits usually signals boredom, insufficient space or a dental need. The main causes explained and practical solutions to stop the behaviour.
Why does my rabbit dig everywhere? Understanding and redirecting this instinct
A rabbit digging in its litter, sofa cushions or carpet is expressing a rooted burrowing instinct. How to understand it, redirect it and protect your home.
Why does my rabbit follow me everywhere? Attachment and behaviour
A rabbit that trails you from room to room is expressing attachment, curiosity or a need for attention. What it means, and how to respond appropriately.
Why does my rabbit grunt? Causes and how to respond
A rabbit's grunt is a territorial or defensive warning signal, not a random mood. Learn the common triggers, what it means for your bond, and how to respond.
Health
See all →Ear mites in rabbits: signs, treatment and prevention
Rabbit ear mites (Psoroptes cuniculi) cause thick crusts and intense itching. Signs to watch for, veterinary treatment options and how to prevent spread.
Rabbit abscess: signs, causes and treatment
Rabbit abscesses are stubborn and generally need prompt veterinary care. Key signs, common locations, why treatment differs from other pets and what to expect.
Rabbit dental malocclusion: causes, signs and treatment
When a rabbit's teeth fall out of alignment, pain builds quietly. The key causes of malocclusion, warning signs and what treatment involves.
My rabbit is drooling: causes and when to see a vet
Rabbits do not drool under normal conditions. Wet fur under the chin, food dropping from the mouth — the main causes explained and what to do.
My rabbit is breathing fast: emergency or stress?
Rabbit panting, breathing rapidly or with mouth open: emergency or stress causes, warning signs to monitor, and when to call a vet without delay.
Rabbit heatstroke: how to recognise the emergency and act
Flat rabbit, burning hot ears, fast breathing: how to spot rabbit heatstroke, the emergency steps to take before the vet arrives, and how to prevent it.
Housing
See all →Can a rabbit live cage-free full time? Requirements and steps
Full-time cage-free living works for a well-prepared rabbit. Requirements, situations to avoid, and a gradual method to get there without setbacks.
How to set up an indoor pen for a rabbit
Space, floor, sleeping zones, litter corner and enrichment: how to organise your rabbit's indoor pen so it stays active, comfortable and mentally stimulated.
How to protect cables from rabbits
A free-roaming rabbit will chew electrical cables sooner or later. Practical solutions — tubing, conduit, repositioning — for every cable type.
Best floor surface for a house rabbit
Hardwood, tiles, carpet or cork: which floor surface suits a free-roaming rabbit? Risks of slippery floors, practical solutions and common mistakes to avoid.
How to reduce rabbit litter odour: practical solutions that work
Persistent rabbit litter smell despite regular cleaning? Best substrates, cleaning frequency, ventilation, diet and neutering: the practical levers explained.
How to clean a rabbit litter box: frequency, method and safe products
Proper litter box maintenance prevents odours and health problems. Step-by-step cleaning method, recommended frequency, safe products, and mistakes to avoid.
Accessories
See all →Best litter tray for rabbits: what to look for and what to avoid
Choose the best rabbit litter tray: right size, wall height, open vs covered design and easy-clean material for your rabbit’s size and habits.
What accessories are truly essential for a rabbit?
The accessories every rabbit truly needs, what is useful but not urgent, and what to skip. Complete starter checklist with budget overview included.
Feeding
See all →Can rabbits eat apple?
Apple flesh is safe for rabbits — but seeds are toxic and must always be removed. High in sugar, apple is a rare treat, not a daily green. Amounts and tips.
Can rabbits eat banana?
Banana is safe for rabbits but very high in sugar. A small occasional slice is fine; regular feeding is not. Portions, frequency, and key precautions.
Can rabbits eat carrot tops?
Carrot tops are an excellent green for rabbits — low in sugar, rich in fiber and vitamins, far better than the carrot root. Full guide with portions and tips.
Can rabbits eat dandelions?
Dandelions are one of the best plants you can give a rabbit — all parts are edible and highly palatable. High calcium calls for rotation. Full guide with tips.
Can rabbits eat broccoli?
Broccoli is safe for rabbits but can cause gas. Which parts to give, how much to offer, and what warning signs to watch for — a practical guide.
Can rabbits eat carrots?
Carrots are safe for rabbits but far too sugary to feed daily. Frequency, portion size, and why carrot tops are a much better choice — all explained.
Adoption
See all →Male or female rabbit: which should you choose?
Behavioural, health and care differences between a male and a female rabbit, so you can make the right choice for your situation and experience level.
How much does a rabbit cost per month? A detailed budget
Realistic monthly budget for a dwarf rabbit: food, bedding, vet care and accessories. Low and high estimates with the costs most owners underestimate.