A recent Danish study showed that when rabbits are adopted as "starter" pets for children, it often resulted in the negligence of the rabbit's lifestyle and healthcare needs.
No animal, least of all rabbits, should be perceived as low-maintenance. Many owners who adopt bunnies hoping they'll be easy to care for soon realize that it can't be further from the truth.
In February 2023, Lily's owner surrendered her to RSPCA as they no longer had time to provide her with adequate time and attention.
The staff and volunteers caring for Lily at RSPCA's Lonsdale shelter knew that the three-year-old rabbit would do best in a homely environment with a mate of her own species. Happily, Lee-Anne and her partner, Dave, were able to fulfil the care team's hopes for Lily.
Lily felt at ease with Lee-Anne right away
Lee-Anne has adored bunnies all her life, but never had the opportunity to own one. That changed when her daughter Ayla moved overseas and left her beloved rabbit, Spinach, in Lee-Anne's care.
Lee-Anne and Dave fell in love with Spinach, and enjoyed taking care of him. However, they sensed that he was lonely and needed a rabbit friend.
Rabbits, like most pocket pets, are highly social creatures. RSPCA advice is to always keep them in pairs or groups to improve their quality of life. And, of-course, remember to have all your rabbits desexed, especially if they're living in a mixed-gender pair or group.
As soon as Lee-Anne and Dave came across Lily's profile on the RSPCA SA website, they knew it was meant to be. Not only was she absolutely adorable, but she was also the only rabbit up for adoption who wasn't already in a bonded pair.
In her time at the shelter, Lily had been constantly grunting and breathing heavily. Rosanna, who leads the team caring for rabbits and other small animals at Lonsdale believed it to be partly due to her breed (Mini Lop) and partly due to the stress of living in a shelter rather than in a home.
"When she was placed on my lap for a cuddle, she quietened down almost immediately," said Lee-Anne about her first meeting with Lily.
After staff confirmed that they were well set up to accommodate and care for rabbits, Lee-Anne and Dave were able to take Lily to her new home that day.
Little Lily has a huge personality
Lily is a very curious and adventurous rabbit who loves exploring new places. When she first moved into her new home, she was inquisitive about everything around her.
"We bought rugs with rubber backing so she can run through the kitchen," said Lee-Anne.
"It's funny to watch her bound around with her big fluffy feet.
"Her favourite activity is digging her way through deep piles of packaging paper, and she likes to chew on boxes until they are perfectly round."
Lily is also really friendly and runs to anyone who reaches out to her. Although, she will be expecting lots of pats and ear rubs and will sit with them for ages as long as she keeps getting them.
While her diet consists of mostly hay, along with a variety of fruits and vegetables, she's developed a craving for cranberries in particular. Even the smell of one has her running towards it.
"We lure Lily back to her enclosure at night with cranberries and pats," said Lee-Anne.
Lily and Spinach have become bunny buddies
When Lee-Anne and Dave brought Lily home, they set her up in her own enclosure separate from Spinach, to give them time and space to get to know each other.
During their first meeting, Lily, true to her nature, was excited to meet another rabbit. While she was curious and playful, Spinach was a bit nervous and timid.
"Lily and Spinach's first dinner date sent him running away when she made a loud snort sound, but he is used to it now," Lee-Anne recalled.
Over the months, Spinach has become much more comfortable with Lily. While they're still sleeping separately, Lee-Anne says that they seem to look forward to meeting each other each day for play dates and dinner.
"They are on the right track and hopefully they will be best friends soon."
Lee-Anne hopes that when Lily and Spinach fully bond, she and Dave plan to create an outdoor enclosure so the bunnies can have some supervised playtime on the grass.
Just like Lee-Anne and Dave did, it is important to take ample time to introduce your rabbits to each other to ensure their comfort and safety. You can get some useful tips about this here.
Caring for rabbits is tricky but equally rewarding
Having owned multiple cats and dogs throughout her life, Lee-Anne admits that caring for rabbits is quite different. She believes they need plenty of time and patience, especially with their specific dietary and lifestyle needs.
As rabbits are prey animals, they startle easily and usually don't like being held or handled. Lee-Anne and Dave make it a point to approach the rabbits calmly, to avoid scaring them.
"They need to learn to trust you but when they do, it feels rewarding," said Lee-Anne. "Lily sleeps with her back facing towards us, which indicates that she isn't feeling threatened. It really warms my heart."
She also believes that rabbits are misunderstood animals, and are more than just cute and cuddly 'starter pets' for children.
"People don't realize that rabbits are so affectionate. You can train them, get into routine with them, they're fun and interactive," said Lee-Anne. "I can't wait to come home from work every day and spend time with Lily and Spinach."
Before you welcome a rabbit into your home, it is important to be aware of all their needs, from suitable housing and healthcare to the specific foods that meet their nutritional requirements. While they can be great pets for children, adult supervision is essential.
If you are interested in adopting a rabbit, you can access a detailed guide on how to best care for them on the RSPCA Knowledgebase.
