How Long Do Rabbits Live As Pets?
Rabbits make adorable pets. They can live for many years if you know how to take care of them. If you have a pet rabbit at home or plan to buy one, it is important to learn their lifespan and some tips on keeping your rabbits healthy for them to live a longer life. How long do rabbits live as a pet? Read on to find out.
Rabbit Breeds and Their Lifespan
There are various rabbit breeds, and it is difficult to determine which breeds live longer than others. So, how long do rabbits live as a pet? Domestic rabbits usually live between eight and twelve years, while wild rabbits may only live a few years because they deal with the disease without help, malnourishment, and predators.
A pet rabbit's average lifespan is about eight to 12 years old, though certain breeds of pet rabbits are known to live longer than others. Generally, larger breeds often have a shorter lifespan compared to smaller rabbits. Miniature or dwarf breeds of rabbits tend to live longer than giant breeds. Dwarf rabbits, mini lops, and other little bunnies will typically live in double digits, while large breeds, like French lops and Flemish giants, won't.
How Nutrition Affects a Rabbit’s Lifespan
On how long do rabbits live as a pet also depends on their nourishment. Rabbits have their specific nutritional requirements, and what we feed them can directly affect their lifespan. Proper nutrition connects with the overall health of a rabbit. Rabbits will live healthy and longer if they have the appropriate vitamins, minerals, fiber content, and other nutritious elements.
Some owners will only feed their rabbits from pellets bought at a pet store, but this may lack vitamins and minerals. Special pelleted diets for rabbits, hay, and vegetables should make up your pet rabbit's ideal diet. Other treats and fruits can also be given but should be in moderation. Feeding them with a balanced diet is the key to make them healthy.
Healthy Rabbits Live Longer
How long do rabbits live as a pet? Regardless of the food you feed your rabbits, there will be instances that they can develop illnesses or get parasites. Such health concerns may shorten your rabbit's life if left untreated. There are good ways to keep your rabbit healthy such as practicing good hygiene. It helps to wash your hands before and after handling your rabbit. It would help if you also cleaned their cages regularly. Regular visits to your veterinarian will also prevent diseases and help track any problems that your rabbit may be developing before it's too late to cure them.
Neutering your rabbit can help lengthen its lifespan. Female rabbits can develop mammary and uterine cancers, while male rabbits are prone to develop testicular cancer. Getting a rabbit neutered decreases the chance of your rabbit developing cancer and, therefore, increases their chances of living a long life.
How Lifestyle Affects Rabbit’s Lifespan
Rabbits live longer these days with the help of veterinarians and better knowledge of a healthy lifestyle among rabbits. You need to know that a rabbit also needs a calm home because they may die due to extreme stress levels. They may get into shock and die if they are hurt, taunted by a cat or dog, or forcibly grabbed.
Some owners think that they are happy being kept in a cage their entire lives, but they need a lot of space and mental stimulation. Rabbits can live indoors or outdoors but need large areas, such as a bedroom to call their own. They need toys and things to chew on and play on, as well. Rabbits that don't get the proper space and enrichment aren't usually as healthy as those.
Conclusion
Rabbits are popular pets, and their lifespan can be lengthened if their owners give them the best form of care. If you're planning to raise a rabbit, keep in mind that it is not just a summertime activity, and a lot of things can affect their lifespan. Now that we have answered, "How long do rabbits live as a pet?" you're now aware that it will largely depend on how you care for them.