All too often, rabbit health is neglected by many loving owners, but there are easy ways to change a rabbit’s diet and give them the long and loving life that every pet deserves.

Tempting Treats

It is important to keep treats, like raw fruits and store-bought snacks, on the down low. Sugary substances are unhealthy and can cause stomach disorders. Limit treats to a teaspoon once or twice a week. Fresh fruits count as treats, so keep these amounts limited as well.

Sophomore Samantha Gaydovchik feeds her bunny, Ollie, “berry blend flavored yogurt chips and he goes crazy over them. He starts clawing at his cage when he smells them,” said Gaydovchik.

Junior Charles Wagner treats his two rabbits, Annabelle and Hannah, to “small amounts of strawberries, romaine lettuce, and grapes or cherries,” said Wagner. Hay should always be available for rabbits. Vegetables, including lettuce and herbs, should be provided as a main diet substance. Pellets are a treat and should be offered in small doses.Jessica LambertyJessica Lamberty

Puddle Problems:

Litter training is a simple task to learn, but is best taught when the rabbit is maturing. Training an adult rabbit can be slightly more challenging, but doable. To establish toilet territories, scoop scattered feces pellets into a litter pan and provide most foods in a rack above the litter pan.

Wagner says he committed his bunnies to litter training by “putting them in their box every time they went outside of it and giving them a treat when they went in their box. This reward would lead them to eventually becoming litter trained,” said Wagner. There are many ways to “jump the puddles,” but keep in mind that some rabbits may never fully learn potty-training.Jessica LambertyJessica Lamberty

Love and Attention:

Rabbits require love and attention just like people do. It is important to spend quality time with any pet. This includes letting them out around the house or simply sitting down for grooming session. Going on an outdoor walk is always a great idea, but be weary of dogs and hawks, and keep pets leashed at all times. Whatever it is that brings the two together, set aside cuddle time for this cuddly companion.

Although owning a pet comes with a lot of hidden responsibilities, the joy and benefits of owning a bunny are well worth the work.