How Long Do Rabbits Live As Pets?

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How to Keep Your Rabbit Healthy

To keep your rabbit healthy and happy throughout their life, you need to understand your rabbit’s needs. Most domestic rabbits can easily live to be 8 years old, and many can live for up to 12 years. 

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How to Keep Your Rabbit Healthy

Unlike wild rabbits, who face constant stress and predators, domestic rabbits have regular access to food and safe places to hide.

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Rabbit breeds and lifespan

There are many breeds of rabbits. Just like with dogs, each has a different lifespan. In general, larger rabbit breeds live shorter lives than dwarf breeds, and purebred rabbits have shorter lives than mixed breeds. 

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Rabbit breeds and lifespan

But each rabbit is different; a large purebred rabbit may live up to 10 years, while a mixed-breed dwarf rabbit may only live eight.  

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The role of nutrition and exercise

The food and exercise you give your rabbit have a bigger impact on how long your rabbit may live than genetics do. Despite the common idea that rabbits are “low maintenance,” they actually need a significant amount of daily exercise and a specific diet in order to thrive. 

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The role of nutrition and exercise

Rabbits need relatively large cages, as well as several hours outside their cage each day in order to get enough exercise. Large rabbits need at least 5 square feet of cage space, according to the American Rabbit Breeders Association. 

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The role of nutrition and exercise

They should also be allowed to explore in a safe room for a period of time during the day so they can stretch their legs and play. Too little exercise can lead to obesity and heart problems that can shorten your pet’s life. 

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The role of nutrition and exercise

They also need a specific diet. Rabbits’ teeth grow throughout their lives, so they need constant access to clean timothy hay or dried grass. You should also supplement their diet with fresh, leafy greens and high-fiber pellets.

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The role of nutrition and exercise

Fresh grass and carrots can actually harm your rabbit. They’re too rich in sugars and can impair their digestion. A poor diet can not only stress your pet, but it can also cause illness. 

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