Rabbits make wonderful pets—they’re attentive, sweet, and cute—but it’s up to owners to ensure that they are safe, healthy, and happy. According to the veterinarians at The Pet Clinic in Honolulu, HI, those thinking of keeping a bunny should do a little homework to know what they’re getting into. As part of their commitment to the health of animal companions, they work hard to educate people about proper rabbit care.

So what goes into being a good bunny owner? Hop through these quick tips from Hawaii’s leading veterinarians:

• Housing: Rabbit cages should be at least six times the length of the animal when stretched out and high enough for them to stand on hind feet. There should be room for a litter box, toys, food, water bowl, and water bottle. In many cases, dog cages will be a good size for them; however, you should make sure that these do not have wire floors.
• Diet: Rabbits should be fed primarily hay grasses like oat straw or orchard grass, and there should be an unlimited supply of these available. You should also feed bunnies a small salad that features three different vegetables supplemented with about 1/8^th cup of plain pellets twice a day. Try not to over-rely on pellets, because these can easily lead to weight gain.
• Cleaning/Grooming: Clean rabbit cages in a solution that is four parts water and one part vinegar; this will effectively get rid of the mess without risking exposure to toxic elements or chemicals. While bunnies, like cats, are good about grooming themselves and don’t need baths, they do need to be brushed at least once a week, with nails trimmed once every six weeks.
• Handling: Since rabbits are generally prey in nature, they rarely feel comfortable being picked up; try to interact with them on their level as much as possible. When you do pick one up, be very careful; their spines are fragile and can even break if they kick violently when they’re straightened out. Hold rabbits close to the body with two hands at the belly, and consider wrapping them in a towel.

Of course, taking them to the vet is an important part of rabbit care. If you’re on Oahu, there’s no better team to help than the one at The Pet Clinic. Find out more about this pet hospital by visiting online or calling (808) 946-5096.