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SMALL ANIMALS

 

Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils and other small animals are fun pets to keep. As long as they are kept healthy, provided with a warm home, given plenty of attention and a good diet they are fairly easy to keep happy.

 

These basic steps should be followed when keeping a small animal.

 

1. Feed a good balanced diet and ensure water is fresh and clean.
2. Provide a safe and warm home with plenty of fresh bedding.
3. Treat fleas and mites quickly and effectively, especially during warmer months.
4. Groom longer haired animals as appropriate.
5. Practise good hygiene for your pet and its home – clean the cage and replace the bedding at least once a week!
6. Regular veterinary check-ups.

 

Rabbits

 

Housing

 

Rabbits can live in a hutch outdoors or in the house. Most importantly they require plenty of space and social contact. If a rabbit is going to live outside then it must receive daily contact with the owner or preferably another rabbit. It should be large enough for the rabbit to hop about freely and high enough to enable the rabbit to stand on his hind legs. Rabbits should also be exercised in an outdoor run or the home as often as possible.

 

Rabbits can be litter trained easily and therefore make good indoor pets. Rabbits living in a hutch outdoors should be kept on a bed of straw or wood shavings, bedding must be changed at least once a week in the winter and more frequently in the summer. An indoor litter trained rabbit can sleep on a piece of carpet; or blanket and the litter tray can be filled with a non-clumping cat litter.

 

Feeding

 

Rabbits require a high fibre diet and should be fed a muesli mix or single pellet feed that can help prevent selective feeding. Supplement your rabbit’s diet with vegetables and occasionally feed fruit as a treat.

 

Make sure your rabbit has access to unlimited supplies of clean fresh water in either a bowl or gravity feeding bottle.

 

Preventing Boredom

 

To keep your pet rabbit entertained provide safe toys for your rabbit to play with. This will help prevent boredom, which can lead to bad habits.

 

General Care

 

Long-haired breeds of rabbits will require regular grooming to prevent matting and keep their coats in good condition. All rabbits should have their eyes, ears, nose, mouth, teeth, bottom and nails checked regularly.