Here are some terrific tips for making your companion rabbits as happy and healthy as can be! For more detailed information please visit www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care

Some tips for happy rabbits:

• Give em' shelter - The safest place for a rabbit to live is indoors, and if in a cage, the rule of thumb is for the cage to be a minimum of five (5) times the size of the rabbit so they have ample room to run, hop and play. Cages with wire flooring are very hard on the feet of rabbits as they do not have protective pads like dogs or cats.
• Shhh, quiet please - Rabbits like to have a cozy spot to sleep, hide and rest, and most rabbits tend to sleep during the day and night, being most active at dawn and dusk.
• Keep it comfy - Rabbits do not tolerate extremes in temperature, so keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer helps keep them comfortable and minimizes stress.
• Healthy eating for rabbits - Timothy hay is one of the staples of a healthy rabbit's diet. Access to a steady supply of quality hay is essential, as this aids their digestive system and provides fiber to prevent such health issues as obesity, hairballs and diarrhea. Alfalfa hay, on the the other hand, should be given as a special treat as it is too high in calories, protein and calcium for daily consumption.
• The need to chew - Chewing is part of the natural behavior of rabbits, and they must exercise this need everyday. Their chewing does not have to be destructive however. Place untreated wood or cardboard on the daily menu. Paper towel rolls, and other chewable cardboard are the best bets. Avoid plastic toys and objects with sharp edges or pieces that can break off and become choking hazards.
• Handle with care - Rabbits are fragile creatures who must be handled carefully. Their bones are so delicate that the muscles in their powerful hind legs can easily overcome the strength of their skeletons. If not properly restrained, a struggling rabbit can break their own spine. Rabbits are prey animals, and often feel threatened when picked up or carried.

For another terrific rabbit website visit the House Rabbit Society at www.rabbit.org.