Rabbits - do I want to get them for the kids or am I nuts!

[LondonRunner]

I have two dogs (golden retriever who is hard work) and a little cocker spaniel. I also have an old cat who lives indoors.

My kids (girls age 8 and 9) now want rabbits after spending time with a friends rabbit which is very sweet but I am already feeling like a zoo owner.

We have the space and a large house and garden but I am left wondering if I am not insane as I source the largest outdoor hutch I can find.

How much time will rabbits need? And what are the costs associated?

I have images of lonely little things in an outdoor hutch and me cleaning and feeding.

[iklboo]

Marking my place (sorry). We live in a very 'cat heavy' area. DS has started to talk about wanting a rabbit. We have the room, but I'm worried out cost, exercise, weather.......

[BigArea]

Friends of ours are vets and advised us not to get rabbits as so many things can go wrong with them. They suggested guinea pigs as an alternative - we have 2 and they are ace

[MinesaMess]

Have a look at this site //rabbitwelfare.co.uk
Tens of thousands of rabbits end up in shelters because people don't do their research. Diet and husbandry are extremely important in preventing disease.

[Floralnomad]

Rabbits are not the best pets for children ,and if looked after properly take a lot of time ( much more than a cat for example) , get GPs or rats instead and keep them indoors that way the children stay more interested .

[Aboyandabunny]

Ds has had a rabbit for 2 years, he is a super little character. He has a hutch with a run for outside and a cage for wintering indoors. In winter he comes into the sitting room for an hour or so daily to run around.
He enjoys being stroked and brushed and has a ball he likes you to roll for him.
He has a litter tray which he uses. You get rabbit sized ones for the hutch.
Cost wise ours eats rabbit pellets at £3 per bag every month, spring greens and carrots. We buy a huge bale of hay from the local farm shop for £6 and this lasts a month for bedding with sawdust and eating. He also loves specialty hay from the pet shop and this is about £5 per month.
Regarding vets bills we have an insurance policy at £10 per month and he has been at the vet for a tummy upset (£30) and his claws clipped (£10).
Our bunny is a much loved furry and we wouldn't be without him.

[hellsbells99]

Don't do it. Cats are much easier and better pets!

[Lonecatwithkitten]

Rabbits really are adult pets the figures speak for themselves rabbits which are owned by children have a life span of 5-8years, rabbits which are owned by adults have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years.

[iklboo]

We'd only end up looking after it anyway. Sorry, DS. No bunnies in this house. You'll have to stick with looking at the ones we see on the way home.