I'm thinking about getting a rabbit

[igorsMistress]

Hi all

I've found a local breeder of New Zealands and am thinking about getting a single buck. This would be a pet and I've already decided if we do it then he will be an outdoor bunny and reside with the chickens. I've read tons here already about the pros and cons on that.

My questions are more around necessary items and what works based on experience.

Water bottle or dish?

Hay: is timothy hay ok? Alfalfa? Grass?

Is there any particular brand of feed anyone is for or against?

I know iceburg lettuce is a no no. Are there any other things they shouldn't have?

Age is a factor, there are two bucks available that are 9 or 10 weeks old, and one 7 months old. Which would you pick? I have 3 grandkids that are going to want to love on this bunny. Younger is likely better, right?

Thanks for your help!

 

[chickenmama109]

yes the younger will be better i chose dish will my six week old rabbit its more natural for them and the breeder i got mine from already had them drinking from a dish alfalfa is only good from baby rabbits i give mine timothy hay and she loves it also dont hold him to much when you first get him kinda let him get used to where hes at first and bunnys do not like to be held they will try and get away i got mine not to long ago and she loves to eat hay that i hold for them no veggies untell he is older if you get a younger rabbit good luck with your new rabbit

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Hi all

I've found a local breeder of New Zealands and am thinking about getting a single buck. This would be a pet and I've already decided if we do it then he will be an outdoor bunny and reside with the chickens. I've read tons here already about the pros and cons on that.

My questions are more around necessary items and what works based on experience.

Water bottle or dish?

Hay: is timothy hay ok? Alfalfa? Grass?

Is there any particular brand of feed anyone is for or against?

I know iceburg lettuce is a no no. Are there any other things they shouldn't have?

Age is a factor, there are two bucks available that are 9 or 10 weeks old, and one 7 months old. Which would you pick? I have 3 grandkids that are going to want to love on this bunny. Younger is likely better, right?

Thanks for your help!

Rabbits should eat mostly pellets, hay, and grass. All dietary changes should be made slowly. Feed whatever brand is easily available and fresh.

It will depend what type of waterer your rabbit is used to. Mine refused to use bottles, so I use crocks.

Do you plan to neuter your bunny? Some males spray, and they can stink, others are a bit better behaved, but all of mine got a bit naughty during their adolescence.

Younger rabbits are best for a tamer bunny. Generally a bunny shouldn't be sold before 8 weeks. If you want a tamer one I would look for some that were handled. Most rabbits will scratch when being picked up or put down if you aren't careful, so be aware of that with kids.

 

[cassie]

Years ago I had a pet New Zealand buck. He was a big calm rabbit, a lot of fun, and I don't remember any issues with him except he occasionally had to have his teeth trimmed.