Rabbits make incredible pets, known for their gentle, playful nature and unique personalities. Whether you’re a first-time rabbit owner or a seasoned pro, understanding what rabbits enjoy and what they don’t is key to raising a happy, healthy pet. Plus, if you’re thinking about introducing multiple rabbits to your home, it’s important to know how to ensure they get along.

What Rabbits Like:

1. Chewing Toys
   Rabbits love to chew! It helps keep their teeth trimmed and their minds engaged. Provide plenty of rabbit-safe chew toys, such as untreated wood, hay cubes, or cardboard. This satisfies their natural instinct to gnaw and keeps them from destroying furniture.
2. Hay and Fresh Vegetables
   Hay is essential for a rabbit’s diet, providing necessary fiber for digestive health. Along with hay, fresh vegetables like leafy greens (e.g., romaine lettuce, parsley) are a favorite treat. Avoid iceberg lettuce, which doesn’t provide much nutritional value.
3. Exploration
   Rabbits are curious creatures who enjoy exploring. Create a safe, enclosed space where they can hop around, explore tunnels, or play with toys. Enrichment is important to keep them mentally stimulated and happy.

What Rabbits Don’t Like:

1. Loud Noises
   Rabbits are sensitive to loud sounds, which can stress them out. Avoid sudden, sharp noises or placing them in noisy environments. A calm, quiet space is best for your rabbit to feel safe.
2. Being Picked Up
   While some rabbits tolerate being picked up, most do not enjoy it. They are prey animals, and being lifted can make them feel insecure. If you need to pick them up, do so gently and always support their body.
3. Heat
   Rabbits can overheat easily. Keep them in a cool, well-ventilated area and avoid placing them in direct sunlight or hot environments. Provide fresh water regularly, especially during warmer weather.

Raising Rabbits Together:

Rabbits can live harmoniously with other rabbits if introduced carefully. Here are some tips for raising multiple rabbits:

1. Spay/Neuter
   To prevent territorial behavior and avoid unwanted litters, always have your rabbits spayed or neutered. This also helps prevent health issues and makes bonding easier.
2. Slow Introduction
   When introducing new rabbits, do so gradually. Start by letting them sniff each other through a barrier like a cage or pen. After a few days, allow them to meet in neutral territory, free from any territorial instincts.
3. Separate Space
   If you have multiple rabbits, make sure they each have their own space where they can retreat for some quiet time. It’s essential to create a peaceful environment where they can coexist without fighting.

By understanding what your rabbits like and don’t like, and introducing them to each other properly, you can ensure they live happily and healthily. Whether you have one rabbit or many, the key is to provide them with a safe, enriching environment where they can thrive.