Rabbits are the third most popular household pet in the West, and are gaining popularity in the rest of the world too.
This book aims to advise prospective owners on how to choose, buy and take care of a pet rabbit.
It is said, and I have found it to be true, that rabbits are about as intelligent as your average cat or dog. They live approximately the same length of time too, but are less demanding and easier to feed. In fact, they are ideal for people who can’t get out much, or don’t want to keep meat in the fridge or even in the house, as they are one hundred percent vegetarian!
If you don’t know much about rabbits, you could be forgiven for thinking that a rabbit is a rabbit, is a rabbit, but in fact, there are 370 classes of rabbit (according to UK and USA rabbit organisations) and they come from 70 different countries. So, there is plenty of scope in size and colour. Not only that, but owners will tell you that each rabbit has its own distinctive personality, much like a cat or a dog. However, in general, we could say that rabbits are docile, placid and friendly, and don’t appreciate rough handling or play.
Rabbits are also the third most popular pet in the UK and the fourth in the USA, but third most popular with all age groups of twelve and above. So, you are in good company.
Genre: PETS / Rabbits, Mice, Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, etc.1. Rabbits: Pro’s and Con’s
If you are looking for a pet, then it is reasonable to consider a rabbit. I did some research and discovered that rabbits are:
* the third most popular pet in the UK
* the fourth most popular pet in the USA
* the second most popular pet with teens
* the fourth most popular pet with singles
* the third most popular pet with seniors
They don't rank in the top ten in the world as a whole, and in Europe they come about fourth in the 'small mammal' group. Still, if you only take the figures in the list above, rabbits come (3+4+2+4+3)/5 = 3rd. Therefore, it is definitely advisable to consider getting a rabbit if you want a pet because they suit all age groups.
So, what are the pro's and con's of having a rabbit for a pet?
1. Rabbits don't need to be taken for a walk. They get all the exercise they need hopping about your garden or your living room. This obviously suits those with little time, the wheelchair-bound, and those who just don't get out much. The down side of this, is that the hutch will need to be cleaned out often - perhaps even daily. However, this task can be done from a wheelchair, and rabbits can be trained to use a litter tray, if you have the patience to teach them.
2. Many people say that rabbits are about as intelligent as the average cat or dog, and can learn their names. Furthermore, they often 'perform tricks' without being taught.
3. They have a lifespan of about 10-12 years, if treated well, which is comparable to a cat's or a dog's. They are herbivores, which basically means vegetarian, so are perfect for those who don't want meat in their homes, and at a pinch, their food can be collected free from outside.
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Afrikaans
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Translated by Mabel Lugo
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Author review: Mabel Lugo and I have worked together for about six years and her work is always exemplary. |
