Yes! 2011 is the Year of the Rabbit.  And I see lots of New Year decorations adorned with cute little rabbit drawings and cartoons. Naturally, I am tempted to buy that 2 or 3 pretty little decorations to beautify my workplace and just to usher in the Year of the Hoppy Rabbit in a cheery happy mood.

Just as tempted I am to buy that decoration pieces, some little kids are also attracted to that little cute fluffy rabbit that they see at the pet shops. Parents will think “ Yah, why not? Since it’s the year of the Rabbit, yes, it is quite timely to get one to keep at home. And since the kids like this Little Fluffy, yes we shall get one now!”

But just before you take out that wallet to pay for Little Fluffy, stop for 3 minutes to ask yourselves these questions

Getting Little Fluffy is the first step of being a pet owner. It is important to realize that getting a pet is a responsibility and commitment. Do not ever buy a rabbit or any pet on impulse. Always learn more about the care and husbandry of rabbits before getting one. Loving a pet is like welcoming a new family member. And every member must make an effort and commitment to care for this family member.

The Internet and the library have tons of information about rabbits and their care and husbandry.  Take 1 week or two to read up more about rabbits before bringing Little Fluffy home. It is important to realize that rabbits are actually very fragile animals that have an average lifespan of 7-8 years. Rough handling, loud noises and poor husbandry can easily stress them out. Handling of rabbits must be gentle but firm. Hence little children must be supervised closely while playing and handling rabbits. I have seen poor little baby rabbits being mishandled and dropped, resulting in severe head and spinal injuries.

The digestive system of the rabbit is also very fragile. They must be fed a strict diet of fresh water, hay and pellets. At times, fresh vegetables can be given at moderate amounts. If a rabbit does not eat well, they can develop ‘gut stasis’ – a condition where their intestines stop moving. This stasis is very dangerous and can endanger the rabbit’s life if left treated for more than 12-15 hours.  Rabbits are also very prone to dental problems. One common problem is “dental malocclusion” – a condition where the cheek teeth is not aligned properly, causing overgrown and jagged teeth. This is a painful condition and immediate medical attention must be sought.

Remember that Little Fluffy is totally dependent on you and your family to love and care of it. When Little Fluffy is unwell and ill, veterinary attention must be given immediately. Cost of veterinary medicines can be expensive depending on the severity of the illness. Some rabbits recover quickly with some oral medications while others more sickly, will require intensive care and hospitalization. Be honest with your financial situation and be sure to set aside budget for Little Fluffy’s medical expenses if need be.

Remember buying Little Fluffy is the easy first step. The rest of the journey is a commitment of time, energy and money. Be a responsible pet owner.