Did you know that rabbits became incredibly popular pets during the Victorian era? This may explain why they appear so frequently in literature from that time. In this article, a local Pendleton, IN veterinarian shares some interesting rabbit facts.

Bunnies Are Very Sociable Animals.

Some pets do just fine on their own. Floppy? Not so much. These guys are typically quite friendly, and can become very lonely if they do not have companions to play with and cuddle with. In fact, they often become depressed if they don’t have any rabbit friends.

They’re Really Stubborn

 You’ve heard the saying ‘Stubborn as a mule.’ Bunnies may give mules a run for their money here! Floppy may be adorable, but don’t let that innocent furry face and charming expression deceive you. Some rabbits are quite bossy! Your pet may be upset with you for moving things around in her cage or being late with her treat. If she is, she may express her dissatisfaction by stomping her foot or turning her back to you.

They’ve Been Charming Us For 1500 Years

Rabbits may have been initially domesticated in the fifth century. Research indicates that monks from southern France and residents of the Iberian Peninsula were likely the first to keep domestic bunnies.

There Are 50 Bunny Breeds

The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) officially recognizes fifty different rabbit breeds. While they all have the same basic care needs, they differ significantly in size, coat, and personality. For example, the fluffy Angora requires a lot of beauty care to keep its long locks in good condition. Some, such as the Belgian hare, are rather aloof, and actually are more suited to being kept in outdoor hutches, provided the weather isn’t too harsh. The teeny-tiny Lionshead has proven quite popular among apartment residents, while the friendly Dutch Rabbit is an excellent choice for children.

Those Floppy Ears Are Quite Remarkable

Rabbits’ ears are one of their most endearing characteristics. They are not only really cute, but also quite astonishing!

• Rabbits utilize their ears to control their body temperature.
• The practice of pranking someone in photographs by placing your fingers behind their head in a ‘Bunny ears’ gesture dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was used to humiliate men.
• Wild rabbits’ ears do not flop down. This endearing quality is the outcome of breeding. However, there is one disadvantage: you’ll need to keep your pet’s ears clean.
• Bunnies can rotate their ears 180 degrees. This allows them to locate where a sound is coming from. As one might expect, this is useful in detecting predators.
• Rabbit ears are quite delicate.

Floppy Has A Lifespan Of Up To 12 Years

If you adopt a bunny, you may be committing to more than a decade of care. Before adopting a pet, make sure you are prepared for a lifetime commitment. Adoption is lifelong! 

Floppy Might Have Sunk A Ship

According to folklore, rabbits on a 17th-century ship chewed through its wooden hull. This resulted in the ship sinking and several sailors drowning. Even now, Brittany Ferries won’t allow rabbits on their vessels.

They Aren’t Fond Of Guinea Pigs

Bunnies and Guinea pigs are both quite popular pets. However,  these two do not get along very well. They don’t speak the same body language, which can result in a lot of misinterpretations. They also require totally different diets. 

It’s also worth noting that bunnies are capable of harming cavies. If you decide to have both, keep them separate.

They Groom Themselves

Have you ever seen a bunny brush her ear with her paw to clean it? If not, you’re missing out on one of the most adorable things ever!

They Have Specific Dietary Needs

Rabbits have extremely specific dietary requirements. Floppy needs a limitless supply of fresh grass hay, such as Timothy hay. This should be supplemented with commercially produced rabbit food and safe fruits and vegetables. Ask your Pendleton, IN vet for recommendations.

Floppy Has A Sweet Tooth

Bunnies are infamous for enjoying sweet treats, such as bananas. However, don’t be fooled by Floppy’s adorable face: too much sugar is bad for your fuzzy buddy. (This includes carrots. Sorry, Bugs!) Make sure you only feed your rabbit foods that are safe for her. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.

They’re Quite Athletic

These guys can really move when they need to. Bunnies can run at speeds of up to 18 mph. They are also excellent jumpers, capable of jumping up to four feet high and clearing nine feet horizontally. 

This is one reason we don’t recommend having Floppy play in your yard. Do not allow your pet out unless you have high, secure fences.

They’re Terrified Of Water

Many dogs, as we all know, detest taking baths. Rabbits are also not fond of water. In fact, getting wet can literally scare Floppy to death! 

You should never bathe your rabbit. If your pet gets something spilled on her, you can gently soak that section of her body in lukewarm water, carefully swish it around, and dry her off. If she gets something on her head, simply use a facecloth to clean  her off.

Another reason to never get your bunny wet? Their fur and skin can remain damp for some time. This puts them at risk for flystrike, which is both painful and dangerous. (It’s also really gross.)

They’re Really, Really Cute

Several fictional rabbits have won our hearts over the years. The Easter Bunny would undoubtedly be at the top of that list, but several others have also gained popularity.

Here are some of the world’s favorite fictional bunnies:

• Bugs Bunny
• Thumper
• Peter Rabbit
• Roger Rabbit
• The White Rabbit (Alice in Wonderland)
• Rabbit (Winnie the Pooh)
• Snowball (The Secret Life of Pets).
• The Velveteen Rabbit
• Buster Baxter (Arthur)
• Lola Bunny (Space Jam)
• Br’er Rabbit (African American Folklore)
• March Hare (Alice in Wonderland)
• Skippy (Robin Hood)
• The Energizer Bunny
• Fiver (Watership Down)
• Officer Judy Hopps (Zootopia)
• Anais Watterson (The Amazing World of Gumball)
• Nesquik Bunny,
• Babs Bunny (Tiny Toons)
• The Trix Rabbit

They Communicate Using Body Language

We are well aware that when dogs are happy, they wag their tails, while contented kitties purr. Rabbits have their own way of expressing their contentment: the binkie. This is basically a rabbit happy dance, and it’s just as adorable as it sounds.

However, this is not the only way rabbits express themselves. If you have a stubborn bun, you may notice that Floppy occasionally stomps her feet when she is impatient or displeased with you. Your pet’s gestures and expressions may also convey information. Other rabbits can easily interpret these signs, but people may overlook them.

They Can Be Litter Boxes Trained

Rabbits are very clean. They can even be trained to use litter boxes! Ask your Pendleton, IN veterinarian for advice on how to train your pet.

They Need Chew Toys

This one should go under fundamental rabbit care, rather than entertaining facts, but we’re including it here anyway. Bunnies have open-rooted teeth, which don’t ever stop growing. That means they must chew regularly to avoid dental problems. You’ll need to supply your tiny buddy with a variety of safe, appropriate chew toys. Many of these can be made at home using materials such as cardboard, paper, and wood. Just be sure to stick with safe options! Contact your veterinarian for further information.

Do you have any queries about caring for your rabbit? Contact us here at your Pendleton, IN animal clinic today!