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Rabbit Lifespan: Healthy Habits That Lead To A Longer Life

By Alison Wood

Republish: EasyPublish™ Published: 14Sep2011 Word count: 582 Viewed: 452 time(s) Get Free Content For Your Site

The lifespan of a pet rabbit is largely dependent on the rabbit's diet, breeding specifics, exercise and overall care of the rabbit. While some rabbits may unfortunately suffer from a type of rabbit illness and die after only a few months or years, other healthy rabbits can live up to 12 years. The average lifespan of a rabbit is 8 to 12 years.

Rabbits do have a rather long lifespan compared to other small pets, such as hamsters and gerbils. Rabbits belong to a group called the lagomorphs, which is the same group that hares and pikas are in. Rabbits will tend to live much longer than rodents, so be sure that when you get a rabbit, you are prepared to care for it on a more long-term basis.

There are many different types of breeds of rabbits, and some breeds do tend to fair better than others. For example, dwarf rabbits have a long average lifespan than French lops. If you want a rabbit with a long lifespan, research the breeds and choose one that has a high average lifespan. However, it's important to remember that lifespan is not just dependent on breed, but rather the overall health and care of the rabbit during its lifetime.

Taking good care of your rabbit is the best way to ensure it has a long and happy life. Rabbits that are kept indoors, fed a proper diet, have plenty of exercise and are treated as a lovable pet will normally have a long lifespan. Rabbits can be kept outdoors in hutches, but only if they also get exercise outdoors. Rabbits are naturally curious creatures who love to graze and hop around, so keeping them in a confined space without much room to move about on a daily basis will most likely decrease their lifespan. Rabbits are also social creatures, so playing with a rabbit regularly during its exercise time will keep your rabbit happy. A rabbit that is left alone in a cage all the time with no affection and exercise will become detached and standoffish.

Another way to keep your rabbit happy and healthy is to feed it a proper diet of hay, vegetables and rabbit pellets. Because rabbits are natural grazers, it's important to always provide them with a fresh supply of hay to nibble on at all times. Young rabbits should have alfalfa hay, while older rabbits should be transitioned over to grass hays. A rabbit won't overeat hay, so leave enough in the cage for it to graze when desired. This will keep your rabbit healthy and happy. Fresh fruits and vegetables will also increase your rabbit's lifespan because they provide vital nutrients, fiber and protein for your rabbit. Feed your rabbit a couple pieces of rabbit-friendly produce each day. In moderation, fruits and vegetables will also help your rabbit keep its ideal weight. Overfeeding, or feeding your rabbit only rabbit pellets that are high in calories, will cause your rabbit to become overweight and increase its chances of a premature death.

Also be sure to get the necessary shots for your rabbit throughout its lifetime, including shots to prevent Mxyomatosis and VHD (Viral Haemorrhagic Disease). If your rabbit appears to be acting differently, has diarrhea or any other noticeable problem, contact a veterinarian immediately to remedy any illness before it becomes life-threatening. Taking all of these precautions will help to increase the lifespan of your rabbit.

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