Creating a Suitable Habitat:

Rabbits need a spacious and secure environment. A playpen or cage should be large enough for them to stretch out, stand up on their hind legs, and hop around. A general rule of thumb is that the enclosure should be at least four times the size of the rabbit, allowing ample room for movement. 

Additionally, provide a cosy area for the rabbit to rest and sleep, preferably lined with soft bedding like hay or straw and ensure that the rabbit has 2 to 4 toys in their habitat for their stimulation. My rabbit, Brownie, has 3 straw mats near his hay feeding area for him to rest on. He also has his favourite straw ball and loofah rings which he enjoys fiddling with.

Lastly, ensure that you never place your rabbit’s cage outside in the heat of the sun and unshielded from other animals. This is extremely unsafe and unhealthy for your rabbits. Try to put your rabbits indoors and free roam them as well if possible.  I personally free roam my rabbit, Brownie, about 30 mins - 1 hour a day in my pantry. During meal times and at night(mostly when we cannot supervise him), he is placed in his playpen. Brownie’s playpen is about 2m by 1m and he loves to relax and rest in it.

Nutrition and Hydration:

Proper nutrition is vital for a rabbit's well-being. Their diet primarily consists of hay, fresh vegetables, and a limited amount of pellets. The proportion should be as follows- 85% hay or fresh grass, 10% vegetables, 4% pellets, 1% treats.

Hay is essential for dental health and proper digestion. Ensure they have a constant supply of clean, fresh hay. If you have access to fresh grass, that is also fine to feed to your rabbit. I feed Brownie Oxbow’s Timothy Hay or Hay Blend.

Fresh vegetables such as leafy greens (like kale, parsley, and romaine lettuce) should also be included in their diet. Do note that rabbits cannot consume iceberg lettuce.

I like to give Brownie romaine lettuce, cucumbers and pellets for his meals. Occasionally, I add in an apple slice as a treat for him to indulge in.

Remember to introduce new foods gradually to avoid digestive issues.

Water is crucial for rabbits. Offer fresh, clean water in a drip-feed bottle or a heavy, spill-proof bowl, ensuring it's available at all times. Make sure to clean out food and water bowls frequently. 

( Read more about this in Proper Bunny Nutrition: A Guide to Feeding Your Rabbit for Optimal Health)

Healthcare and Regular Check-ups:

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to ensure your rabbit remains healthy. A veterinarian specialising in exotic animals or specifically rabbits can provide guidance on vaccinations, general health, and any specific needs your rabbit may have. Keep an eye on their teeth, as they continuously grow, which can lead to dental issues if not worn down through proper chewing.

Exercise and Social Interaction:

Rabbits are active animals and need regular exercise to stay healthy. Allow them time outside of their enclosure in a safe, enclosed area to hop and explore. Supervised free-range time in a rabbit-proofed space within your home or a secure outdoor area is beneficial for their physical and mental well-being. Social interaction is also important, as rabbits are social creatures. Spend time with them, petting and playing gently, to develop a bond and prevent loneliness. I always spend time with Brownie every day- from taking him to the park where he zooms around to cuddling up with him and teaching him tricks by enticing him with delicious treats. Activities like these ensures that your rabbit is not isolated and lives a contented life.

Grooming and Hygiene:

Rabbits groom themselves but may need assistance, especially with long-haired breeds, to prevent matting and fur-related health issues. Regularly brush them to remove loose fur and prevent hairballs. Check their nails and trim them if they get too long, being careful not to cut the quick, which can cause bleeding. For most rabbits, the quick can be visibly seen on their nails. If your rabbit has dark-coloured nails, the quick would be a bit darker than the colour at the tip of the nails. If your rabbit has white/ clear coloured nails, the quick would be slightly red in colour. As Brownie has dark coloured nails, I always try to shine a light on his nails to see the quick clearly so as to prevent injuries.

(Read more about this in Complete Guide to Bunny Grooming: Nail Trimming, Ear Cleaning, and Brushing Techniques)

Safety Measures:

Rabbits are curious and can chew on various items, including electrical cords, which can be dangerous. Rabbit-proof your home by covering or hiding cables and removing any toxic plants or items they might ingest. Luckily, for me, Brownie is not as passionate about chewing on cords. However, I still make sure that I switch off all electrical appliances and put the cables away and out of reach from him for his safety.

Conclusion:

Caring for a rabbit involves dedication and understanding of their specific needs. Providing a suitable living environment, a balanced diet, regular healthcare, and plenty of love and attention are key to ensuring your rabbit leads a happy and healthy life. Remember, every rabbit is unique, so be observant and responsive to your pet's individual requirements. By following these guidelines, you can create a nurturing and fulfilling environment for your beloved bunny companion.