Rabbits are naturally social animals that evolved to live in groups in the wild. Rabbits kept alone can become bored, lonely or stressed unless their social needs are met. If you cannot accommodate more than one rabbit, you must be prepared to offer your rabbit daily interaction and provide ample enrichment to keep them mentally stimulated.

Rabbits may tolerate the presence of other pets like cats or dogs with careful supervision, but these animals don’t meet a rabbit’s social needs in the same way another rabbit does.

Rabbits and guinea pigs are not recommended as permanent companions — rabbits’ stronger hind legs and different communication styles can unintentionally harm a guinea pig, and their dietary needs are quite different.

You must not attain rabbits with the intent on breeding and selling them. With hundreds of rabbits looking for forever homes in shelters around the country, it is not necessary.

Like all pets, rabbits are a commitment. You must be ready to care for this animal throughout its entire life, which can be anything up to 12 years.

If your circumstances change, you must be prepared to provide ongoing care for your pets, regardless of these changes. Whether that's making adjustments to your own situation, finding a responsible carer or surrendering them to a local small animal shelter, your rabbits rely on you to provide them (or find them) ongoing, adequate care.

You should never abandon, dump or leave your rabbits to fend for themselves, regardless of your circumstances.

Vet bills for rabbits can cost hundreds of dollars, so you need to be prepared for this! You must provide these funds when your bunnies fall ill, or find a vet who offers payment plans.

It is always recommended that you locate a good exotics veterinarian near you before adopting a rabbit, as standard vets often do not have the specialised knowledge or expertise to diagnose and treat smaller animals.

We recommend you setting up a designated vet fund. This is where you put aside money weekly or monthly and is used solely for your pets' medical bills.

Find your local exotics vet here.

It's important to understand rabbits are NOT like dogs or cats. They require a specific diet, care and housing needs. It's important to be educated on their health, grooming, feeding, and social attributes. Read through the rest of our Care Guide and you'll be set!

You must be prepared to provide all these requirements throughout your rabbit's lifetime and maintain this level of care to the best of your ability.

You must have on hand a responsible person who can care for your rabbits while you are unable to. They must be educated in how to care, house and look after your critters even if it is only for a few days.

Provide them with veterinary contact numbers, lists of do's and don'ts in regards to your rabbits' care, their list of food requirements, their daily routine, and dosage and administration if they are on medication.

Make sure you leave funds for food/care costs and a number in which to contact you.

Alternatively, pet boarding and pet-sitting services are also available. Some veterinary facilities may offer pet boarding for free.

Pet-sitters are a great option because come to your house once or twice a day to feed and check in on your rabbits, while keeping them in a familiar environment.

Find a pet sitter here.

Despite their size, rabbits aren't the cheapest pets on the planet unfortunately! Vegetables can be quite costly, depending on how many rabbits you own.

You must also provide quality grassy hay and pellets which are an ongoing and additional cost. Prices can vary depending on the amount, type and quality.

Housing, bedding, accessories, water bowls/bottles must be purchased upfront before you get your rabbits. Carry cages for vet visits are also recommended.

If you live in Queensland, Australia - rabbits are illegal unless you have a special permit.

Outside of Queensland, many rental properties have restrictions on pet ownership. Always check with your real estate agent/owner before adopting a rabbit. If rabbits are not allowed, you can plead your case.

Some things you can offer are:

• A vets recommendation that rabbits will not cause any damage to the household
• Check with your local council
• Speak to the manager of the real estate agency/company
• Offer to pay for any damages that are a direct result of your rabbit
• Present pictures of you rabbit's enclosure deeming it fit for use in the household

If you are moving, provide documentation stating that your previous residence received no damages as a direct result of having rabbits. A signed document by a past real estate agent or rent inspector is recommended.

If you have other pets you must ensure that your rabbits will be safe and secure around them.

Know that they are prey animals and react differently compared to dogs and cats; that they also require a certain level of care.

You must be prepared to take them to a vet should it become unwell, to not neglect them and let any issues or ailments drag out unnecessarily.

You must be committed to loving, providing and caring for this animal throughout its entire life, provide the best life possible and always do what is in the best interests of your rabbits!