Adoption Checklist

Housing

Indoor, roomy confined space

At least 12 square feet of enclosure space, enough for a full-size litter box, food and water dishes, space to hop around, and a place to hide
- Examples: exercise pen or two; large dog crate that opens to an exercise pen
Flooring should be solid (not wire), with carpet or other rabbit-safe padding that provides traction. Wire causes pain and arthritis. Slippery floors can cause splayed leg.
Temperature controlled environment between 65-80 degrees
Away from direct sunlight and loud noises
Litterbox (large rectangle) and Rabbit-safe litter
- Examples: Carefresh, Oxbow Pure Comfort
- NO cedar or pine shavings (toxic to rabbits), aspen is ok
Litter boxes should be cleaned with 50/50 white vinegar/water
Ceramic/heavy pellet bowl (flat bottom, straight sides, to prevent tipping) or clip-on feeder
Ceramic/heavy bowl for water (flat bottom, straight sides, to prevent tipping)
Toys

Indoors – space to run and leap on appropriate surfaces.
Outdoors – we discourage allowing bunnies to play outdoors;
- If you choose to allow them short outdoor play in a secure area, be very aware of outdoor hazards such as predatory birds, wild animals, and neighborhood pets, as well as insects like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas
Start small and gradually increase space – this allows your bunny to become accustomed to where things are and how to successfully get to litterbox, hay, and water
Bigger is better, free run is best! (in a well bunny-proofed home)
We do recommend having an ex-pen available in case it is necessary to confine the bunny for any reason (safety, recovery, etc)
Metal baby gates can be used to block off rooms (may chew plastic mesh gates)
Bunny-proof electric cords
- Vinyl tubing can be split to cover cords
- Place wires high up
Furring strips, 2x4s or other wood panels can be used to cover baseboards
Ceramic tiles are cool, and can protect the edges of carpet as it meets the wall
To protect flooring and carpet, and to create a slip-proof base, outdoor carpet is an inexpensive and durable option
Paper towel tubes can be split to cover wooden table or chair legs
Be sure there is always clear passage to the litter box, hay, and water

Hay (Timothy or Orchard Grass)
Fresh veggies and fruits (see https://rabbit.org/care/food-diet/ for a good list)
Rabbit Pellets, Timothy-based (only ⅛ cup per day, and not required)
Fresh water
Wood for chewing and recreation
- Pinecones
- Dried tree twigs from fruit trees (NO pesticides) -Untreated Wood
- Reed/Willow Baskets

Nail Clippers
Brush or comb
Never submerge your rabbit in a bath
Do only dry and/or spot cleaning (dirty paws or bottom); use only warm water and dry thoroughly.
If you do not feel comfortable grooming your bunny at home, Friends of Rabbits does have grooming services available by appointment: check out our Grooming page to book a grooming appointment at our Columbia HQ and in Virginia look for announcements for the first Sunday of the month.

Choose a vet based on their training and experience with rabbits; look for Exotic vets.
Choose a vet with whom you feel comfortable, someone who you feel listens and communicates well with you.
Healthy rabbits need an annual well exam, and vaccination against RHDV2.
For a list of rabbit some of the savvy vets in the area, check out our Veterinarian page
- This list is not exhaustive – there may be others near you.

Friends of Rabbits maintains a “supply garage” at the Columbia House where you may purchase hay, litter, pellets, and treats; some supplies are also available in Virginia for Columbia.
- Learn more about the Columbia HQ Store
Local pet stores are a convenient source for litter boxes, litter, hay, and pellets
Be aware of what pet stores sell for rabbits – just because it has a bunny on the package does not mean it really is safe.
- Read labels and know what is/is not safe.