Bunny Fever? 5 Things To Know First

Each Easter season, when the new batches of bunnies arrive at our farm, we hear lots of little voices crying, "Mommy, I want one!" Before you say yes, here are a few questions to consider:

1. Where will the bunny live, in the house or in the back yard? Traditionally, pet bunnies reside outside in a hutch that offers protection from the elements and preditors. However, the ASPCA recommends bunnies live in the house as a family pet. House bunnies can be trained to use the litterbox and can roam free in your house, provided you first bunny-proof. Indoors or out, the bunny will need a cage. 

2. Who will take care of the bunny? In addition to needing food and water twice a day and cleaning the bunny cage once or twice a week, bunnies need exercise and attention. Experts recommend rabbits get three to four hours of cage-free exercise a day to work out their powerful hind legs. 

3. Is my child old enough for a bunny? Regardless of who takes responsibility for bunny's care and feeding, consider your children's ages and personalitites. Are they mature enough to understand that rabbits are fragile and must be handled with care? Bunnies are also timid by nature and can take time to warm up to someone. Bunnies can't cry out when distressed, and instead may kick, scratch or bite out of fear. 

4. Is our home bunny-friendly? Do you have other pets? While bunnies can co-exist with cats and dogs, the adjustment may be stressful for all. Bunnies are naturally nervous creatures, so a loud, and hectic household may be to stressful for a pet rabbit.

5. Are you ready to commit? A bunny can live for 10 years or more, so before you decide to take one home, be sure you are ready for the long haul. Each year, hundreds of families . (Find out more at the House Rabbit Society.) 

Visit on April 6 & 7 for  from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Don't forget to bring your camera to take photos with Mrs. Bunny.