5 Things You Should NEVER Do as a Rabbit Owner (and why!)

Rabbits might be small, but they come with some BIG responsibilities! These adorable, curious animals have unique needs, and some common rabbit care mistakes can actually do more harm than good.

Whether you're a brand-new bunny parent or a seasoned rabbit owner, here are five things you should never do to your rabbit, plus what to do instead!

5. Never Lay Your Rabbit on Their Back

You might have seen videos of rabbits lying perfectly still on their backs, looking completely relaxed. But don't let that fool you!

Placing a rabbit on its back can trigger something called tonic immobility, also known as "trancing." This is a fear-related response where rabbits become temporarily immobilized.

Although they may appear calm, they're not necessarily enjoying the experience. In fact, it can be extremely stressful.

Instead: Always support your rabbit's body and hind legs when handling them. Let your bunny relax in natural, comfortable positions they choose themselves.

4. Never Let Your Rabbit Run Out of Hay

Hay isn't just a snack. It's the foundation of your rabbit's diet!

Rabbits need a constant supply of fiber to keep their digestive systems functioning properly. Without enough hay, they can develop gastrointestinal (GI) stasis, a potentially life-threatening condition where normal gut movement slows or stops.

And here's another reason hay is so important: rabbits' teeth never stop growing! Chewing hay helps naturally wear down their teeth and prevent painful dental problems.

Instead: Make sure your rabbit has unlimited access to fresh, high-quality grass hay, such as timothy or orchard grass, 24/7.

3. Never Make Iceberg Lettuce a Part of Your Rabbit's Regular Diet

Not all lettuce is created equal!

Iceberg lettuce is mostly water and contains significantly fewer nutrients than many other leafy greens. While it isn't inherently toxic, it doesn't offer much nutritional benefit and can cause digestive upset when introduced too quickly or fed in excessive amounts.

Instead: Choose nutrient-rich, rabbit-safe greens such as romaine lettuce, cilantro, green leaf lettuce, and parsley. Introduce new foods gradually to avoid upsetting your bunny's sensitive digestive system.

2. Never Keep Your Rabbit Caged All Day

Imagine spending your entire day in a tiny space with barely enough room to move. Not much fun, right?

Rabbits are active, intelligent animals that need room to run, hop, stretch, explore, and show off their famous binkies!

Keeping rabbits confined in small cages for extended periods can lead to boredom, stress, obesity, and other physical and behavioral problems.

Instead: Give your bunny a spacious, bunny-proofed living area where they can move freely. Aim for plenty of free-roaming time every day, ideally with access to a safe exercise space throughout the day.

Don't forget enrichment! Tunnels, hideouts, chew toys, and natural foraging activities are wonderful ways to keep your bunny mentally stimulated.

1. Never Give Your Rabbit a Bath / Submerge Them in Water

This might be one of the most important rabbit care tips of all!

Unlike dogs, rabbits generally do not need baths. They're naturally clean animals that groom themselves throughout the day.

Submerging a rabbit in water can cause extreme stress and make it difficult for them to maintain their normal body temperature. Their dense fur takes a long time to dry, putting them at risk of dangerous chilling and hypothermia.

A frightened rabbit may also panic and injure itself while trying to escape.

Instead: Stick to regular brushing and gentle spot-cleaning when necessary. If your rabbit has a heavily soiled bottom or cannot groom properly, contact a rabbit-savvy veterinarian, as this can indicate an underlying health problem.

A Happy Bunny Is a Healthy Bunny! 🌿

Owning a rabbit is one of the most rewarding experiences, but being a great bunny parent means understanding what makes these little animals so special.

By avoiding these five common mistakes, you're already taking important steps toward giving your rabbit a healthier, happier, and more enriched life.

At Willow & Hare, we believe rabbit care should go beyond the basics. From natural forage blends to fun enrichment products, we're passionate about helping you make every day a little more exciting for your bunny.

Because happy bunnies deserve the very best! 

What's one rabbit care tip you wish you'd known sooner? Share it with us!