Rabbit Advice

🌾 1. Hay, Hay, Hay!

Hay (and grass) should make up at least 85–90% of your rabbit’s diet. That’s about the size of their entire body in hay every day! It keeps their teeth worn down and their digestive system healthy and moving—just the way nature intended.

🍽️ 2. Fibre First, Always

Rabbits have sensitive tummies that need a high-fibre diet. A good quality complete nugget can supplement their hay—but steer clear of muesli-style mixes. These can lead to selective feeding, where rabbits only eat the tastiest (but not necessarily healthiest) bits, leading to problems like obesity and dental disease.

🥬 3. Add Some Greens (But Not Too Much!)

Fresh leafy greens like kale, spinach, or spring greens are a great daily addition—but only in small amounts. Introduce any new foods gradually to avoid upset tummies.

💧 4. Fresh Water is Essential

Whether it’s in a bottle or a bowl, rabbits need unlimited access to clean, fresh water. Refresh it daily to keep them happy and hydrated.

🍓 5. Treats = Tiny Tastes Only!

We all love giving treats, but even healthy-sounding ones can be high in sugars or salts. Offer in moderation only—a treat should be just that, occasional and small.

🐇 6. Bunnies Love Company

Rabbits are highly social animals and thrive in pairs. A neutered male and female often make the best match. When paired properly, rabbits form deep, loving bonds—and you’ll see just how happy they can be together!

🥕 7. Carrots? Not So Fast!

Forget the cartoons—carrots are actually high in sugar and not part of a rabbit’s natural diet. An occasional nibble is fine, but leafy greens are a much better option for daily feeding.

♻️ 8. Yes, They Eat Their Poo (and That’s Normal!)

Rabbits produce two types of droppings, and one type (called caecotrophs) is re-eaten to absorb essential nutrients. It might sound strange, but it’s perfectly normal—and essential to their health!

🔍 9. Know What’s Normal

Rabbits hide signs of illness, so knowing your bunny’s usual behaviour and habits is vital. Changes in eating, toilet habits, or activity levels could mean something’s wrong.
Check out the RSPCA rabbit behaviour pages to become a bunny body language expert!

💉 10. Don’t Forget Their Jabs!

Your rabbit needs annual vaccinations to stay safe from Myxomatosis and Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (RVHD-1, RVHD-2 and RVHD Highly Virulent strain)— can be fatal. One yearly visit can be a lifesaver.

🐰 Feeding Your Rabbit Right

The key to a happy, healthy bunny? A proper diet!

A well-balanced diet is one of the most important things you can give your rabbit. It supports their digestion, keeps their teeth healthy, and helps prevent serious illnesses like dental disease, obesity, and fly strike.

🌿 The Ideal Rabbit Diet

80% of your rabbit’s daily food intake should be fresh hay and grass.
This high-fibre diet is essential for healthy digestion and keeps their teeth naturally worn down.

Here’s what to feed:

1️⃣ Hay & Grass – The Main Course

✔ Unlimited access to fresh, dust-free hay (e.g. timothy, meadow, or orchard hay)
✔ Daily grazing on chemical-free grass if possible – a portable run is perfect

These provide the fibre, calcium, and texture rabbits need to stay healthy.

2️⃣ Pelleted Rabbit Food – Just a Small Serve

✔ Choose a complete pelleted food
✖ Avoid muesli-style mixes – they encourage selective feeding and poor nutrition
🕒 Feed once a day, in small measured portions

3️⃣ Fresh Veggies & Herbs – Occasional Treats

✔ A few times a week:

Broccoli, celery, cauliflower leaves
Dandelion leaves, basil, parsley

🍎 Fruit and sweet veg like carrot or apple should be fed only in tiny amounts
✖ Avoid sugary shop-bought rabbit treats – they’re high in fat and can upset digestion

📝 Introduce new foods slowly over 2–4 weeks to avoid tummy trouble.

4️⃣ Water – Fresh and Always Available

✔ Clean, fresh water should always be accessible
✔ Offer both a bowl and a bottle — some rabbits have a clear preference
🌡 In winter: check bottles aren’t frozen
🔥 In summer: top up regularly to prevent dehydration

⚠️ Health Signs to Watch For

🚨 These may be signs of diet or dental-related health issues:

💩 Soft stools or soiling around the back end – can lead to fly strike
🧃 Red urine – sometimes caused by foods like cabbage or dandelions, but if unsure, contact us
🥕 Loss of appetite or reluctance to eat hard foods
💧 Dribbling, wet fur under the chin
👁 Discharge from the eyes
⚖ Weight loss or reduced activity

Rabbits showing these signs should be seen by a vet promptly.

✅ In warmer months, especially if your rabbit is elderly, overweight or unwell, check them twice daily for soiling and health issues.

🦷 Diet & Dental Health Go Hand in Hand

Rabbit teeth grow constantly – without the right diet, overgrowth can quickly lead to painful dental disease.

Grass and hay act like natural toothbrushes, wearing teeth down evenly and preventing problems.

🔍 How to Check Their Teeth

You can check the front incisors by gently lifting the lips:

Look for overgrowth, misalignment, or signs of damage
Watch for redness, swelling, or sore gums

👉 Rabbits have 4 main incisors and 2 tiny peg teeth behind the upper pair.
Their back teeth (molars) can’t be seen without special tools — these need a vet check.

🏥 Vet Dental Checks

At each rabbit health or vaccination visit, we perform a basic dental exam.

If we suspect dental disease, we may recommend a full dental examination under anaesthetic, which allows us to check all teeth thoroughly and provide treatment if needed.

✅ Summary: What to Feed Your Rabbit

Food Type

Frequency

Notes

Hay & Grass

Unlimited

80% of diet – always available

Pellets

Daily (small amount)

Choose a complete diet only

Veggies

2–3x weekly

High-roughage veg only, avoid sugary options

Fruit/Treats

Rarely

Very small quantities only

Water

Always

Offer both bottle and bowl

🧺 A healthy diet is the foundation of your rabbit’s wellbeing.
By feeding them properly and keeping an eye out for changes, you’ll help your bunny thrive for years to come.

Why a hutch is not enough — and how to create a home that truly meets your rabbit’s needs.

📏 What’s the Right Size?

Rabbits need space to:

Take at least 3 full hops in a row
Stand fully upright on their back legs without touching the ceiling
Stretch out comfortably when lying down

That’s why the minimum recommended hutch size for most breeds is 6ft long x 2ft deep x 2ft tall. But remember—bigger is always better.

✨ A hutch should only ever be your rabbit’s shelter or sleeping space… not their whole world.

🌳 Freedom to Move = A Happier Rabbit

Your rabbit may not roam fields like their wild cousins, but they still need space to run, jump, dig, and explore every single day.

🏃‍♂️ The best setup includes:

A secure run attached to the hutch, so your rabbit can come and go freely
A portable run for time on fresh grass (with a wire mesh base to prevent digging out)
A safe, enclosed garden area where they can stretch their legs — just make sure it’s escape-proof and predator-safe

🦊 Safety First

Rabbits are prey animals, so protecting them is essential.

✔ Use strong weld mesh wire (not chicken wire) to deter foxes, cats, dogs, rats, and birds of prey
✔ Secure all doors and lids with reliable fastenings
✔ Check runs and hutches regularly for signs of damage
✔ Provide “bolt holes” (safe hiding spots) in the garden
✔ Remove or fence off any poisonous plants (like foxglove, daffodils, and ivy)

🧹 Hygiene & Daily Checks

A clean home = a healthy rabbit.

Check your rabbit and their housing daily
Spot clean every 2–3 days, focusing on toilet areas
Deep clean the whole enclosure weekly
Take advantage of their natural cleanliness—most rabbits will toilet in one corner, which makes litter training easier and cleanup quicker!

🐾 Want to Learn More?

Visit the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund and check out their fantastic #AHutchIsNotEnough campaign. It’s full of practical advice, setup inspiration, and downloadable guides to help your rabbit live their best life.

Rabbits are highly social animals — in the wild, they live in large groups, grooming, playing, and snuggling together for comfort and safety. This is why keeping rabbits in bonded pairs or small groups is one of the kindest things you can do for their wellbeing.

💞 Best Bunny Matches

The easiest pairing is often a neutered male and female — they tend to form strong, stable bonds.
Same-sex pairs can work, but they’re most successful when the rabbits have been raised together from a young age and are both neutered to prevent hormonal issues or fighting.

🕊️ What If One Bunny Passes Away?

Losing a companion can be incredibly distressing for a rabbit — they may become withdrawn, stop eating, or show signs of depression. If your rabbit finds themselves alone, it’s important to consider finding them a new friend.

💡 Many rabbit rescue centres offer "bonding services," where you and your bunny can meet potential matches in a calm, supportive environment to find a good fit.

🐹 Can Rabbits and Guinea Pigs Be Friends?

It might seem like a cute idea, but rabbits and guinea pigs should not live together.

They have very different diets, social behaviours, and communication styles — and a rabbit can unintentionally injure a guinea pig with a powerful kick. Most importantly, they wouldn’t naturally share a home in the wild.

So, for both their sakes, stick to same-species companionship.

🧠 A Happy Rabbit is a Social Rabbit

Rabbits are happiest when they have a friend of their own kind to cuddle, play, and communicate with. If you're unsure where to start, talk to your vet team or contact a local rabbit rescue. Your bunny's perfect companion might be just around the corner!

Neutering isn’t just about preventing unwanted litters—it’s vital for your rabbit’s health, wellbeing, and behaviour.

🚺 Why Spay Female Rabbits (Does)?

Unspayed females are at high risk of uterine cancer—a painful and often fatal disease.
➡️ Around 80% of unneutered does over 4 years old will develop uterine cancer.
Spaying your rabbit completely prevents this.

Spaying also helps with behaviour. Entire does can become:

Territorial
Aggressive
Difficult to bond with other rabbits

🚹 Why Castrate Male Rabbits (Bucks)?

Castrating male rabbits reduces:

Spraying (urine marking)
Aggressive behaviour
Frustration due to hormones

Castrated bucks are typically calmer and easier to bond with companions.

⚠️ Important: Bucks can remain fertile for up to 6 weeks after neutering—so if paired with a female, keep them separated during this period unless both are neutered.

🐾 When Can Rabbits Be Neutered?

Does (females): From 16 weeks of age
Bucks (males): From 12 weeks of age

We recommend neutering both rabbits at the same time for bonded male/female pairs to reduce the stress of separation and balance hormone changes.

Rabbit diseases: There are several viral infectious diseases that effect rabbits. The only effective way of controlling these viruses is by vaccination. The following information gives further details of the diseases, their signs and symptoms and vaccinations.

There are two different diseases we vaccinate rabbits against:

Myxomatosis (myxi): This produces swellings and high fevers before ultimately causing death
Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease - RHD (also referred to as Viral Haemorrhagic Disease or Disorder or VHD). Most rabbits affected by RHD die suddenly without showing symptoms apart from a short period of dullness and lethargy. We can vaccinate against two strains - RHDV-1 and RHDV-2.

There is no treatment for these diseases and despite our best efforts there is usually nothing that we can do to save the affected rabbit. But we can advise VACCINATING YOUR RABBIT ONCE A YEAR.

These are highly contagious diseases and can spread to and from the wild rabbit population which speeds up their spread both locally and nationally. Myxomatosis is also spread by biting insects such as mosquitoes. RHD is spread by direct contact but mainly through inanimate objects e.g. can be carried on shoes/clothing, after walking in areas with wild rabbits.

Signs of illness: Rabbits are prey animals and can hide signs of illness for as long as possible to help protect themselves from predators. A change in your rabbits normal behaviour may be a signal of ill health. If you notice the following changes or are concerned with your rabbit then please contact us:

Lethargy or changes in activity
Loss of appetite or change in droppings
Soiling with faeces or urine
Discharges from eyes or nose

The vaccination programme: your rabbit needs will depend on their age and past vaccination history. We are moving towards a single annual vaccination using the new 'Nobivac Myxo-RHD Plus' vaccine. If your rabbit has not received this vaccination yet, you will be advised about a course of 2 vaccinations in the first year, then this as single annual vaccination in subsequent years.

Baby Rabbits: Rabbits can be vaccinated against Myxomatosis, RHDV-1 and RHDV-2 using the 'Nobivac Myxo-RHD Plus' vaccine from as early as 5 weeks of age, but a course of two of this same vaccine will be needed for these very young rabbits. Rabbits who are 7 weeks and over only need one vaccination for a full 12-month duration of immunity.

Vet Health Examination is important: Alongside your rabbit's vaccination they will get a full nose to tail health check! We pay special attention to rabbit's teeth - as they continuously grow and can cause problems ranging from a lack of appetite and dribbling to grooming issues and dental abscesses. During the examination we will also listen to their chest to check their heart and lungs feel their tummies and listen to their intestines with our stethoscope to check they are working (they should make a gurgling sound!). Taking and recording their weigh and body condition score is a good indicator of health and we can give you dietary recommendations to keep them healthy.

✅ Choose the Right Carrier

Size matters – Your rabbit and their bonded friend should fit comfortably together inside the same carrier. This helps reduce anxiety and protects their bond.
Solid and secure – Opt for a sturdy plastic carrier with a removable top. This allows the vet to examine your rabbit while they stay in the base—much less stressful than being pulled out.

🛏️ Make it Cosy

Line the base with an absorbent towel or blanket to soak up urine and prevent slipping.
Pack in fresh hay – great for munching or hiding, helping them feel secure and relaxed.
Add a few favourite treats to distract and comfort during the journey.
For longer trips or warm days, attach a water bottle to the side of the carrier.

🐇 Familiarise Them Before You Travel

Let your rabbit explore their carrier before the vet visit—it can even double as a hideout in their usual space. This helps reduce fear and builds positive associations.

🧣 Reduce Stress in Transit

Cover the carrier with a blanket or towel when moving it, especially in busy or noisy areas.
Keep it away from barking dogs or unfamiliar animals in the waiting room.
Use calming products like Pet Remedy spray or wipes (safe for rabbits) to help soothe nerves. (Ask us for more information.)

💡 Top Tip

Always bring both rabbits if they’re bonded—even if only one needs to see the vet. A familiar companion offers reassurance and keeps their bond strong.

What to Watch For & How to Protect Your Bunny

Fly strike and external parasites are serious welfare concerns in rabbits — but the good news is, with the right care, they can be prevented.

🦟 What is Fly Strike?

Fly strike (also called myiasis) happens when flies lay eggs on soiled or damp areas of a rabbit — usually around their bottom. The eggs quickly hatch into maggots, which burrow into the rabbit’s skin, causing pain, infection, and often death if not treated urgently.

🚨 Fly strike is a medical emergency. If you spot maggots or fly eggs on your rabbit, contact us immediately.

Rabbits most at risk:

Overweight or elderly rabbits who struggle to groom
Rabbits with dirty bottoms (from urine or soft stools)
Rabbits with mobility issues or dental disease

🐛 Parasites to Watch For

Rabbits can also suffer from parasites such as:

Mites
Lice
Fleas
Fly larvae

These can spread between rabbits or be picked up from contaminated bedding.

🩺 Signs your rabbit might have parasites:

Poor coat condition
Crusty ears or scurf (dandruff)
Scratching or overgrooming
Sore or bald patches
Changes in behaviour or appetite

If you notice any of these signs, please get in touch — we can recommend the safest and most effective treatments specifically licensed for rabbits.

🛡️ Prevention: Simple Steps That Make a Big Difference

✔️ Daily checks & grooming: Check your rabbit’s bottom and fur every day, especially in warm weather.
✔️ Keep their living space clean and dry — change soiled bedding regularly.
✔️ Maintain a healthy weight — overweight rabbits struggle to groom themselves.
✔️ Use vet-recommended parasite preventatives such as topical insecticides or repellents designed for rabbits.
✔️ Check twice daily during summer months if your rabbit is elderly, unwell, or prone to getting dirty.

✅ We’re Here to Help

If you're concerned about parasites, coat condition, or you’d like to start a fly strike prevention plan, speak to our team.
We’ll guide you on the best parasite control for your bunny and help keep them safe, comfortable and happy all year round.

Understanding Rabbit Body Language & Facial Expressions

Rabbits are subtle communicators. They don’t bark or meow—but if you learn to read their body language, you can tell when they’re feeling relaxed, anxious, or in pain. With daily observation, you’ll start to recognise your rabbit’s normal behaviour and quickly notice when something’s not quite right.

👂 What Ears Can Tell You

Rabbit ears are great mood indicators:

Relaxed and upright, slightly angled outwards = calm and content
Pinned back flat against the head = fear, stress, or anxiety
One ear forward, one back = listening carefully or unsure

👁️ Eyes, Movement & Posture

Bright, open eyes = alert and happy
Half-closed or tense around the eyes = may be tired or in pain
Hunched body, not moving, hiding away = anxious, scared, or unwell
Flopped onto side or stretched out = very relaxed and secure

😕 Spotting Pain: The Rabbit Grimace Scale

Just like humans, rabbits show signs of pain through facial expression. Researchers at Newcastle University developed the Rabbit Grimace Scale, showing how subtle changes in the:

eyes
cheeks
nose
ears
whiskers

can all signal discomfort or pain. Knowing these signs can help you seek early veterinary treatment—potentially saving your rabbit’s life.

👉 Click here to view the Rabbit Grimace Scale and learn more.

✅ Top Tip

Rabbits are prey animals, so they naturally hide signs of illness. The better you know your rabbit’s normal behaviour and expressions, the faster you’ll spot if something’s wrong.

📚 For more on rabbit body language and behaviour, see our Recommended Rabbit Resources section below.

💬 Still unsure what your bunny is saying? We're always happy to help—just ask at your next visit or give us a call!

As the UK’s third most popular pet, rabbits deserve top-quality care and advice.

We hope you’ve found our rabbit care page helpful! We understand how difficult it can be to find reliable information online, so we’ve compiled a list of trusted websites and resources to support you in giving your rabbit the very best.

🐇 Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF)

📍 Website: www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk
The RWAF is a registered charity and one of the leading voices in rabbit welfare.

Why we recommend it:

Packed with expert guidance on all aspects of rabbit care
Offers regular updates, campaigns and welfare news
Become a member and receive Rabbiting On magazine (4 issues a year)
Access a library of back issues and special features

📘 Don’t miss: On the Hop — a comprehensive rabbit care guide, perfect for both new and experienced rabbit owners.
➡️ Download your free copy here

🏡 The Rabbit House

📍 Website: www.therabbithouse.com
Another fantastic all-round resource with articles, videos and podcasts on rabbit behaviour, diet, housing, and more.

🎨 Rabbit Body Language Infographic – RSPCA

📍 Website: Rabbit body language poster – RSPCA
A clear and colourful illustrated guide to rabbit body language, great for both children and adults learning to “speak bunny.”

📘 Understanding Your Rabbit’s Habits by Tamsin Stone

A beautifully illustrated and informative book that guides you through common behaviours, body language and how to enrich your rabbit’s life.

Topics include:

Bunny bonding and behaviour
Enrichment ideas
Creating a rabbit-friendly environment

📚 Available from major bookstores and online retailers.

😕 Recognising Pain in Rabbits – The Rabbit Grimace Scale

📍 Website: Rabbit Grimace Scale – Newcastle University
Veterinary professionals use this tool to assess pain in rabbits based on changes in facial expression and ear position.

➡️ Scroll down the page to download the Rabbit Grimace Poster — a useful tool for owners too!

⚖️ Keeping Your Rabbit Trim

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for your rabbit’s wellbeing.

🎥 Watch this video guide on how to check your rabbit’s body condition.
📊 Download your own Rabbit Size-O-Meter chart from the RWAF and track your bunny’s health at home.

If you ever need personalised advice or have concerns about your rabbit’s health, behaviour, or diet — please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’re always happy to help.ck here!