Bunnies?

**Michelle** · 05-14-2004, 01:36 PM

Anyone ever have a rabbit for a pet? My kids can't have a cat or dog (due to my allergies

), and they've been talking about a bunny for a pet.

Any advice, tips, general information would be helpful and most appreciated.

Thanks!

**sixfreds** · 05-14-2004, 03:31 PM

Well we did when we were growing up but not any more...

I would keep them outside as much as you can but you will need a plan for when winter comes, they will need to come in or freeze (maybe they can stay outside but I would bring them in).

I would also get 2 (both the same sex though) so they can keep each other company when you are not around and not produce many many babies :~)

I think Kathryn is old enough to feed them and I am sure that both Lauren and Kathryn will love them...

ALso I would consider dwarf kinds they are much smaller...

Good luck!! Keep us posted on whether or not you get them..
Eileen

**Michelle** · 05-14-2004, 03:45 PM

Ugh...I'm just in the consideration stage at this point. I feel so horrible that I can't give them the puppy that they so desperately want.

I'd really like to give them a pet--but I don't know if Kathryn is ready for the responsibility...I don't want to be the one always cleaning out the cage, and I know that they want indoor pets too.

Thanks for the info Eileen and Carolyn

**Sara Noel** · 05-14-2004, 04:04 PM

I had a lop eared bunny. He was great. He was litter boxed trained and very easy to care for. The only thing is if they ever get out...watch out. He chewed everything and anything he could sink his teeth into. I also had to hold him properly and a few times I got scratched pretty badly when I didn't.

I really enjoyed him as a pet.

**justatxmom** · 05-14-2004, 04:17 PM

If you get a rabbit, don't feed it Trix.

My dh has a nasty scar that proves "Trix are for kids."

If you are afraid to take the rabbit plunge and want a simple, indoor, inexpensive pet for kiddos, may I suggest hermit crabs? The boys (6 & 4) take complete care of them. The crabs are hoot to watch and surprisingly are very social and have a lot of personality.

**Michelle** · 05-14-2004, 04:18 PM

Originally posted by smnoel
I had a lop eared bunny. He was great. He was litter boxed trained and very easy to care for. The only thing is if they ever get out...watch out. He chewed everything and anything he could sink his teeth into. I also had to hold him properly and a few times I got scratched pretty badly when I didn't.

I really enjoyed him as a pet.

You said "if they ever get out..."--where did you keep him?

How did you litter box train them, and how long did that take? Litter box in a cage? I had visions of them going like a cat

**sixfreds** · 05-14-2004, 04:27 PM

I know how you feel, Kaitlyn wanted a puppy for her birthday and well I didn't so she asked for a turtle instead. We got her the turtle but we also put in a application for a puppy from a shelter and I think next weekend we pick up that puppy :~)

We always had so many animals while growing up so it is just normal for me but good uck deciding!!!! It is a tough decision to make..

Eileen

**Sara Noel** · 05-14-2004, 04:59 PM

I didn't have kids back then and I kept him in a cage in the pantry entryway in the kitchen. I would let him out to play and romp around and he was quick. One time, my coat was hanging on a chair near his cage and he chomped it.

If you look for bunnies, you can ask if they are litter box trained. Mine was already when I bought him. Most breeders train them prior to selling them. I bought mine from a breeder and not a petshop. I have no idea the process on training them.

It is an everyday cleaning thing, but is not bad if it's box trained.